WILLIAMSBURG— The Heritage Humane Society will continue to be closed until May 2, due to ongoing emergency construction at the site.
Originally expected to reopen on April 24, the society recently sent a social media update, saying that emergency construction on the sewer lines is not yet finished.
“While this is an urgent situation, this repair is essential to ensuring a safer, healthier, and more resilient facility for the animals and community we serve long term,” the society said in a social media statement.
When the original closure happened on the 14th, staff worked quickly to place animals with foster families, transported animals to other nearby shelters, and even encouraged permanent adoption.
Most of the animals in Heritage’s care found temporary living situations for the planned two week closure. With an additional closure week now in play, staff are working on contacting all foster families to find out who can keep the animals. Pending the outcome, Heritage says it may need more people in the community to step up.
“While many of our pets are currently placed in foster homes, this is an evolving situation that has now been extended. As needs continue to shift, additional foster placements may be needed in the days ahead,” the post also said.
Short term fostering applications can be found on the Heritage Humane Society website. According to Heritage staff, short term fostering places no financial burden on foster families as Heritage Humane Society provides all needs for the animal.
Adoptions can also still be made through the shelter during the closure, which will allow for other animals in need to be brought in to Heritage to find a permanent home.
As work continues, Heritage is still asking the community for financial help.
“We need immediate financial support to cover repair costs and sustain care for our animals during this disruption. If you are able to give now, your contribution will make a direct and immediate impact. Donations can be made online at donate.heritagehumane.org, by mail and in-person at our front desk,” staff said.
Updates on the status of the project can be found at HeritageHumane.org.