The Healthy Hearts and Paws Project (HHPP) is expanding, bringing more space for animals in need to Warren.

"We are so above capacity right now that we need the extra space," explained Jason Cooke, Founder of The Healthy Hearts and Paws Project.

The latest expansion is the construction of "Bootsie's Bungalow," a new 1,000-square-foot building for cats. The building will feature a play space, a quarantine area, and an indoor-outdoor patio.

The cat bungalow was partially funded through donations and business contributions.

"The building is up, the concrete's been poured, and electric is in," Cooke added. "We just got a lot of interior work to do so we have to do some more fundraising."

The shelter is named after the late Glenn and Jean Harnett's beloved cat, big supporters of local rescues in the area through their private charitable foundation.

HHPP is also breaking ground on a 4,200-square-foot multi-purpose building that will increase its capacity while being able to use the space for training, seminars, a pet food pantry, a small dog room, and an indoor play space.

"This expansion is to not only help more dogs, but to provide enrichment, training, and seminars," Cooke explained. "And we're going to have a pet pantry to help the people in Warren care for their dogs and cats so they don't end up here in the shelter."

Cooke believes the pet pantry will minimize the amount of dogs and cats surrendered to the shelter.

"They can come here to get dog or food so we can keep animals in the home and out of the shelter," Cooke added.

Community support is a driving force in keeping these operations moving. $14k is still needed for the cat bungalow. The total cost of the dog shelter expansion is sitting at $600k.

"These animals cannot take care of themselves," Cooke concluded. "So, just do the best that you can."

Sponsorships are available to help with the cost of the project:

  • Main Indoor Area - $10,000
  • Indoor Catio - $5,000
  • Outdoor Catio - $5,000
  • Quarantine Area - $5,000
  • Main Front Door - $1,500
  • Outdoor Catio Door - $1,000
  • Main Area Window (Large) - $1,000
  • Main Area Window (Large) - $1,000
  • Front Window (L) - $500
  • Front Window (R) - $500
  • Main Area Window (Small) - $500
  • Outdoor Catio Window - $500
  • Quarantine Area Window (Small) - $500
  • Main Area Window (Small) - $500
  • Indoor Catio Window (L) - $500
  • Indoor Catio Window (R) - $500
  • Quarantine Area Window - $500
  • Outdoor Catio Pet Door (L) - $250
  • Outdoor Catio Pet Door (R) - $250

The groundbreaking of the 4,200 sq. ft. expansion will be held next Wednesday, November 20 at 3 p.m. The grand opening of "Bootsie's Bungalow" is scheduled for December 21.

If you're interested in sponsoring doors, windows, or rooms at Bootsie's Bungalow, message the Healthy Hearts and Paws Project Facebook page or text CATS to 234-855-5847.