Homeward Animal Shelter plans new 20000 square foot facility in North Fargo

During the recent Cass County Commission meeting held on May 19, 2025, representatives from Homeward Animal Shelter presented an update on their operations and future plans, highlighting the significant role the shelter plays in the community. The meeting provided an opportunity for the shelter to express gratitude for the ongoing support from the county, which has been instrumental in their life-saving work since at least 2008.

Homeward Animal Shelter, established in 1966, has successfully rescued and rehomed over 42,000 animals, with a remarkable 75% to 85% of these animals coming from the Fargo Pound. In 2024 alone, the shelter adopted out 1,386 animals, a significant increase from 625 adoptions in 2014. This growth, however, has been accompanied by challenges, as the shelter operates within a limited space of approximately 2,300 square feet. The reliance on foster families, who care for 70% to 80% of the animals, has been crucial in managing the increasing number of rescues.

In response to the growing demand for animal care, the shelter has purchased 5.76 acres of land in North Fargo, with plans to construct a new facility exceeding 20,000 square feet. This new building aims to better accommodate the needs of the animals and the community, with a target to break ground within a year and move in by 2027. The shelter's leadership emphasized the importance of community support in realizing these ambitious plans.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of pet ownership in the community, with estimates suggesting that 60% to 70% of households have pets. This statistic underscores the vital role pets play in the lives of residents, contributing positively to mental health and community well-being. The shelter's commitment to a no-kill policy and responsible pet adoption practices was highlighted as a point of pride.

Commissioners expressed their appreciation for the shelter's efforts, acknowledging that without the support of nonprofits like Homeward, the responsibility for animal care would fall heavily on local government. The discussions reinforced the importance of community involvement and support in addressing the needs of both animals and their owners.

As the shelter prepares for its future expansion, the meeting served as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and opportunities in animal welfare, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration between the shelter, the county, and the community at large.