SPCA adding on new community center

What once was a crematorium is now being transformed into a community center at the Brandywine Valley SPCA Georgetown Campus.  The shelter, being a no kill facility with a 96 percent alive release rate, saw this space as the perfect opportunity to make a positive change.

Walt Fentstermacher, director of operations with the SPCA in Georgetown, says once the Brandywine Valley SPCA moved into the facility July, quickly realized they did not need crematorium.  Adding it 'could definitely have a better purpose.' 

The community center is set to be opened in August, and will feature birthday parties, a week-long critter camp, and other activities that are kid friendly and open to the public.

"Previously we didn't really have a space to hold birthday parties or to do stuffing parties with girl scout groups but now with this added space we'll be able to do that," said Fentstermacher.

These events also serve the purpose of education, for the pet owners who are next in line.

"A lot of people in regards to their pets learn from their parents.  And so to change the way that animal welfare looks we need to start with the youth.  And really teach them how to be better pet parents," said Maggie Lyon, director of development for the State of Delaware.

"Children is really the next generation of pet owners so we're going to make sure that they're educated on what it is to be a responsible pet owner and what it is to adopt from a shelter," said Fentstermacher.

The Georgetown campus is in need of donations to help with all of these renovations.  If you would like to support their capital campaign you can visit them online at bvspca.com.