MIDDLEBURG, Fla. – An animal shelter in Clay County will soon open its doors after being damaged by Hurricane Irma. Safe Animal Shelter in Middleburg has been closed for more than two months while it’s been getting a facelift. Stray and abandoned cats and dogs have already been brought in ahead of the re-opening.
Flooding during the storm forced the shelter to close. Executive Director Sherry Mansfield said the damage was believable.
"I have a picture looking down this hallway and it was just so sad. Water and muck and everything was laying on its side," Mansfield said. "We were slipping all over the place... the smell was awful."
Dozens of dogs and cats were removed from the shelter during the storm and taken to other rescue organizations. The shelter suffered more than $80,000 worth of damage, but the community's involvement saved the facility.
"All the floors have been painted, the walls have been painted," Mansfield said. "The ceiling has been sprayed with insulation. The A.C company came in and fixed the A.C. Didn't charge us. Plumber came in and did things for free. People came from everywhere and helped us out."
Even with all of the renovations, evidence of Irma can still be seen at Safe. A waterline on the door measures more than 2 feet of water. They still have to replace doors. Scraping rust off kennels and cleaning up, there is still some work to be done.
"It's like what was once a disaster has turned into a blessing," Mansfield said. We were able to raise money to fix up the shelter and get it looking brand new again."
There is even a new shed full of donated food and pet supplies.
Mansfield said the holidays are typically their busiest time of year. After Thanksgiving they will be taking in stray and abandoned dogs and cats.
"It's been so quiet. We're ready for those barking noises and howls," Mansfield said.
Despite the help, the shelter is still in need of kitten supplies like food, toys and litter.
Safe is scheduled to hold a grand re-opening celebration on Dec. 2 from noon-5 p.m. The public is invited.