Cochise County Opens Animal Shelter After 8-Year Gap, June 03

Cochise County supervisors voted unanimously on June 2 to purchase the Marsh Development in Huachuca City and convert it into an animal shelter. An electrical fire forced the original shelter’s closure in 2018, leaving residents over an hour away from the nearest rescue options in Willcox and Douglas. The USDA awarded a $1.1 million rural facilities grant to fund the project.

Eight Years Without Local Animal Services

The 2018 electrical fire created a gap that affected the entire county. Residents in Whetstone and other areas lost access to local animal control. Overcrowding at distant shelters in Willcox and Douglas led to increased euthanasia rates, raising concerns among residents and animal advocates.

Federal Grant Funds New Facility

The USDA awarded $1.1 million in rural facilities funding for the project. The grant was originally designated for a facility in Bisbee, but the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office agreed to help run the new shelter, allowing the county to redirect the funds to Huachuca City. The Marsh Development will house the new shelter at the site.

Community Reaction and Next Steps

Emotional pleas from residents filled the June 2 board meeting. Former animal control worker Shannon Murphy said the closure left a hole in the community. District 2 Supervisor Kathleen Gomez noted that overcrowding at remaining shelters created serious problems. The new facility will restore central access for the county.

Addressing Accessibility Across the County

Residents emphasized the need for a central shelter. Robin Fahey, who lives in Whetstone, expressed concern about where lost pets would go without local services. Yvonne Mayer noted that nothing changes until the doors open. The new shelter will serve Willcox, Douglas, Huachuca City, and surrounding communities in one location.

Final Thoughts

Cochise County ends an 8-year gap in animal services with unanimous approval of a new shelter funded by a $1.1 million federal grant. The facility addresses overcrowding and euthanasia rates at distant shelters while restoring local access for residents.

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