Orlando Magazine

Pet Alliance Opens Its Long-Awaited Orlando Shelter

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Courtesy Pet Alliance

After years of planning, fundraising and anticipation, Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando is finally home.

A safe, fun outdoor play space.

On Saturday, March 28 from noon until 3:00 p.m., Central Florida’s trusted pet resource will celebrate the grand opening of its brand-new Orlando shelter, a 25,000-square-foot facility designed to transform how the region cares for animals in need. The new campus, home to the Kylie J. Capri Campus and Edward H. Hensley Adoption Center, represents not just a building, but a major step forward in lifesaving work across the region.

Murals include illustrations of some of the donors’ dogs.

For Orlando residents, this is more than a ribbon cutting. It is a moment to show up, support and be part of something meaningful.

The new facility dramatically expands what Pet Alliance can offer. Inside, visitors will find a modern, air-conditioned shelter for dogs and cats, a significant upgrade that improves comfort, health and adoptability. The space dedicated to medical care has doubled, anchored by what is now the largest shelter veterinary unit in Florida.

There are also thoughtful additions that reflect a deeper understanding of animal welfare:

  • Disease-specific quarantine areas to prevent the spread of illness
  • Dedicated neonatal kitten rooms for the most vulnerable animals
  • Outdoor play spaces that allow dogs to decompress and socialize
  • Flexible capacity to assist other shelters during natural disasters

Two amazing dogs looking for their forever homes.

Future plans include a vegetable and herb garden for enrichment and natural treats, along with a memorial and serenity area, creating a full-circle space for both healing and remembrance. “This has been a long time coming for the beloved members of our organization and animal-loving community,” said Interim Executive Director Lindsay Framstead. “We are thrilled to have an incredible lifesaving space that allows for expanded medical care and more pets finding loving homes.”

The celebration kicks off Saturday morning with a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m., followed by a public grand opening event at noon.

Expect a true community “pawty,” complete with:

  • Live DJ entertainment by BarkHaven
  • Food trucks and local vendors
  • Activities and merchandise
  • And most importantly, adoptable dogs and cats ready to meet their future families

This is not just a tour. It is an invitation to connect, engage and maybe even leave with a new best friend.

Pet Alliance’s journey to this new home has been years in the making. Construction began in November 2024, with design by Borrelli + Partners and construction led by H.J. High. The organization’s “Almost Home” campaign is nearing its $15 million goal, with just $301,000 remaining.

If you have ever thought about adopting, fostering or volunteering, this weekend is the moment.

Go to the grand opening. Walk through the space. Meet the animals. Talk to the staff. You will see firsthand what your support makes possible.

And if bringing a pet home is not in the cards right now, there are still powerful ways to help:

  • Volunteer: From daily care to events, volunteers are the backbone of shelter operations
  • Foster: Open your home temporarily and give animals a break from the shelter environment
  • Donate: Help close the final gap in the “Almost Home” campaign
  • Advocate: Share their mission and help more pets find homes
Categories: Community, News and Features
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