BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE

Amid rising community needs, aging facilities, and increasingly complex environmental standards, the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation is stepping forward with a bold and necessary investment in its future.

STRENGTHENING A LIFELINE
FOR EAST END ANIMALS

The Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF), one of the region’s most vital resources for animal care and rescue, has embarked on an essential modernization effort aimed at securing the shelter’s long-term sustainability. These critical repairs and environmental upgrades will allow SASF to continue its mission as an open-admission, no-kill refuge—one that accepts every animal in need, regardless of age, breed, health, or background.

A UNIQUE COMMITMENT TO OPEN ADMISSION

Unlike most shelters, SASF upholds an open-admission promise that makes it a rare and indispensable safety net for both animals and the East End residents who rely on its services. While the Town of Southampton owns the building, SASF manages all operations and maintenance, a responsibility made increasingly urgent as the facility—built more than 26 years ago—faces aging infrastructure and new environmental mandates.

Recognizing these challenges, the Foundation has launched a comprehensive upgrade program that modernizes the building’s systems and brings it into compliance with current environmental standards. Supported by grants, community donations, and matched funding, the project focuses on replacing outdated sewerage and sanitation systems, improving energy efficiency, and refreshing interior and exterior spaces for both animals and visitors.

A MISSION ROOTED IN STRENGTH AND COMPASSION

“This is about ensuring that our shelter embodies both strength and compassion, reflecting the true spirit of its mission,” said Executive Director Chris Teakle. “We take in every animal that comes through our doors. It is not just a responsibility; it is a promise to this community. These repairs and upgrades ensure we can continue to fulfill that promise safely, humanely, and sustainably.”

In addition to environmental improvements, the Foundation is updating flooring, revitalizing animal-care areas, redecorating public spaces, and redesigning parts of the shelter to improve flow, comfort, and overall functionality.

TEMPORARY RELOCATION TO ENSURE CONTINUITY OF CARE

To maintain operations during construction, SASF has temporarily relocated its animals and staff. Cats available for adoption are now housed at a Southampton property, while dogs are being cared for in temporary kennels on-site and at a Westhampton location. Work began October 1, 2025, and is projected to be completed by Spring 2026, with an expected out-of-pocket cost exceeding $350,000 for the Foundation.

A CALL TO THE COMMUNITY

SASF invites local residents, supporters, and businesses to participate in this vital project. Community involvement—through donations, partnerships, and advocacy—will ensure the shelter can continue serving the 18 hamlets and 7 incorporated villages of the Town of Southampton, as well as animals rescued from high-risk situations across Long Island, New York City, and beyond.

ABOUT THE SOUTHAMPTON ANIMAL SHELTER FOUNDATION

The Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, open-admission, no-kill organization dedicated to providing food, shelter, medical care, training, and rehabilitation to homeless animals. Since assuming shelter operations 16 years ago, SASF has transformed local animal welfare—dramatically increasing adoption rates, expanding veterinary services, bolstering training programs, and rescuing animals from critical situations across the country.

Guided by the belief that it is never too late for love, SASF works tirelessly to give every animal a second chance at life in a loving home.

More Information / Donate: www.sasf.org
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