The City of Trenton has announced the opening of a new animal shelter annex, located in the former Columbus Kennels facility in Mansfield Township. The annex, which was purchased by the City of Trenton in July 2024, has been undergoing minor repairs to prepare for its new purpose. The facility, which spans 64,338 square feet, features 40 indoor/outdoor runs and stands adjacent to the Mansfield Veterinary Hospital. Despite the initial plans to open the facility as soon as possible, officials have acknowledged that the delay is due to the need for minor repairs to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals. According to a city employee, who wished to remain anonymous, the repairs have been ongoing for several months.
The annex will initially operate as a temporary solution to alleviate overcrowding at the main Trenton Animal Shelter, which has a capacity of 20 dogs. The shelter has frequently been forced to house more than 50 dogs, leading to concerns about the welfare of the animals.

1. Under the new system, the Trenton Animal Shelter will be overseen by the Trenton Police Department.
2. The annex will provide a safe and secure environment for dogs to be housed and cared for.
3. The annex will help to alleviate overcrowding at the main shelter, allowing for more efficient management of the animals.

The City of Trenton has invested $350,000 in purchasing the Columbus Kennels facility, which is expected to provide a long-term solution to the city’s canine problem. The facility will be staffed by trained animal caretakers and will provide a range of services, including spay and neuter programs.

Mayor Reed Gusciora confirmed that the city had ended its contract with the Yardley, PA kennel that was responsible for boarding an overflow of dogs from the Trenton Animal Shelter. The city paid at least $13,000 weekly in boarding costs.

“We have no more dogs at Yardley,” said a city employee, who wished to remain anonymous. “The Yardley kennel was not equipped to handle the number of dogs we were sending there.”

The acquisition of the Columbus Kennels facility is part of a larger effort by the City of Trenton to improve the city’s animal welfare services. The city has established a five-person animal welfare advisory board, which will focus on reducing unwanted pet and stray animal populations.

• The City of Trenton has purchased the Columbus Kennels facility for $350,000.
• The facility will provide a safe and secure environment for dogs to be housed and cared for.
• The facility will help to alleviate overcrowding at the main Trenton Animal Shelter.
• The City of Trenton has ended its contract with the Yardley, PA kennel that was responsible for boarding an overflow of dogs from the Trenton Animal Shelter.

Upcoming Events:
• The Trenton Animal Shelter is expected to open for business this month. • The annex will be staffed by trained animal caretakers and will provide a range of services, including spay and neuter programs. • The City of Trenton plans to establish a permanent animal welfare advisory board in the future.