A long-awaited animal shelter serving the Uxbridge and Scugog communities is on schedule and on budget, with a late 2026 opening expected despite some challenges caused by winter weather. The $3.8 million project, which is currently under construction on Lakeridge Road, aims to provide a brighter future for dogs and cats in these communities who are looking for forever homes.
The new 6,457-square-foot shelter is being built to replace the existing over-capacity shelter in Port Perry. The project has seen significant progress, with footings poured, concrete walls constructed, and trusses installed. The construction team is on track for substantial completion by mid to late October 2026, with the official opening slated for December 2026.
The new shelter will feature 12 standard-sized kennels, two larger-sized kennels (which can be split in two if necessary), and two additional kennels that will be used for overflow dogs or as a quarantine/behavioral isolation area. These accommodations will improve the shelter’s capacity to care for animals, providing a safe and comfortable space for each pet.
To ensure a stress-free environment for both dogs and cats, the shelter will have a designated cat area on the opposite side of the building. This layout will help minimize noise from barking dogs, creating a peaceful environment for the cats. Additionally, a cat housing area adjacent to the front lobby will allow the public to view the cats available for adoption immediately upon entering the shelter. The adoption space will also provide an opportunity for the public to interact with the cats, spending quality time with them.
The shelter will also feature an outdoor cat enclosure and dog runs, which will promote exercise and contribute to the health of the animals while they stay at the shelter. This focus on animal well-being is a key aspect of the facility’s design.
Uxbridge Mayor Dave Barton expressed his pride in the project, stating, “This important project has been a long time coming. When I was first elected, I committed to making this a reality, and I’m proud to say that we’ve found a path forward.” The $3.3 million project is funded through a combination of municipal contributions from Uxbridge and Scugog, as well as fundraising efforts from local community group NASUS (New Animal Shelter for Uxbridge Scugog). An additional $500,000 has been allocated for contingencies.
Scugog Mayor Wilma Wotten also celebrated the progress, saying, “I am excited to announce that we are closer to fulfilling the dream of a new animal shelter for Uxbridge and Scugog. We are ready to make this dream a reality.” The project has also benefited from cost-saving building materials aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of the shelter’s construction.
The shelter’s development is being overseen by M&M Construction Services, which has been named as the project manager. Durham Region will issue debentures of up to $1 million on behalf of the municipalities to help fund the project, with $80,000 in development charges also earmarked for construction costs.
This new animal shelter represents a significant step forward for the Uxbridge and Scugog communities, providing a much-needed facility that will not only house animals but also ensure they receive the care and attention they deserve while waiting for their forever homes.
