Richardson's four-legged friends and their human companions will need to mark their calendars as the local animal shelter prepares for a short hiatus. According to the Richardson Animal Shelter, the facility will temporarily close its doors on March 4 and 5, moving operations to a temporary location just a stone's throw away at 1330 Columbia Dr. This pause in service is a setup for the shelter's planned revamp, promised to refresh and rejuvenate the space that many abandoned pets call a temporary home, according to the City of Richardson, Texas.

The facelift, funded by the 2021 Bond Program, is not just a fresh coat of paint. The shelter is slated to receive a new main entrance, an updated entry façade, and expanded staff offices. The much-needed renovation also includes new storage rooms, and updated restrooms for staff and the public, as well as a refreshed break room. While the main building undergoes its transformation, visitors looking to adopt or spend some quality time with a potential new family member won't be left in the lurch.

According to the shelter's official announcement, even with the sounds of construction in the background, the wagging tails won't be far behind. A temporary, fenced-in area for dog visitations will ensure that adoptions can continue. Moreover, while the main entrance is getting a makeover, parking is rerouted to the east side of the property. The shelter has promised clear signage to direct visitors on where to park, and, enter the facility during this period of change.