The Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) is getting a much-needed facelift.
In an effort to bring the 26-year-old facility (located at 102 Old Riverhead Road West, Hampton Bays, 631-728-7387) up to current standards, the location is undergoing comprehensive repairs, including environmental modernization projects, particularly an upgrade to the existing sewerage and sanitation systems.
According to a press release from SASF, plans also call for renewed flooring, full interior and exterior redecoration and, maybe most noticeably, the modernizations of animal care and public-facing areas to improve welfare conditions and visitor experiences, simultaneously. Work began on the project on Oct. 1 and is anticipated to be completed by spring of 2026.
Upgrades to the current sewerage systems, as well as new and improved animal care and public-facing areas are all being worked on at the Hampton Bays-based foundation. (Photos courtesy of SASF)
While SASF is steadfastly committed to the overall well-being of animals across the 25 hamlets and incorporated villages across the East End, the foundation’s reach extends beyond, rescuing dogs from kill shelters and dire situations across Long Island and New York City to Georgia, and even all over the Caribbean. For the past 16 years, the open-admission, no-kill shelter has inhabited a space technically owned by Southampton Town (after the town dissolved its own original shelter), yet the space is maintained and operated by the foundation alone. While partial funding was secured through grants and community contributions, the total out-of-pocket expense for SASF was over $350,000.
“This is about ensuring that our shelter embodies both strength and compassion reflecting the true spirit of its mission it represents,” says SASF 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.”
For the duration of the construction, cats have been moved to a property in Southampton while dogs are in temporary on-site kennels and a location in Westhampton. (Photos courtesy of SASF)
The repair and upgrade program has required the entire operation to be relocated to several temporary facilities to ensure the shelter remains safe and accessible throughout the project. Cats available for adoption have been moved to a property in Southampton, while dogs are being housed in temporary kennels on-site in the parking lot and at a location in Westhampton.
If you’re interested in adopting a pet, fill out an application here.
