Minden’s pet owners hailed the opening of a new care facility for their furry friends as the Minden Animal Hospital held a grand opening celebration Sept. 29.
The new hospital was built over the last year, with staff moving in May 27. The facility features a slew of added features and brand-new equipment.
Owner Jenn Morrow said the Minden Animal Hospital will be able to offer better treatments for its patients.
“The one philosophy we had when designing this building was about caring,” Morrow said. “We want to care for our furry friends foremost. Our clients, our environment, our staff and our community.”
More than 40 people attended the opening, with staff providing tours of the building. It boasts an array of new elements to improve patient care, from an isolation room to a separate dental suite.
“We all kind of worked together to build the best layout we possibly could,” registered veterinary technician Morgan Fisher said. “We all love the building.”
Eco-friendliness was also front of mind in the design. The structure features recycled rubber flooring, solar power generation and LED lighting. Open house attendees were also treated to a demonstration of permeable paving, the first example in Haliburton County. The paving absorbs most rainfall, preventing run-off and filtering out pollutants like phosphorous before they reach lakes.
Morrow said being environmentally conscious is important to her.
“Climate change is scary. I moved up here because I loved living in the Haliburton Highlands and all it has to offer, being close to nature,” Morrow said. “I want to do my part in reducing my footprint, and not only personally but also through the business.”
It was not a problem-free build. Morrow said it went eight per cent over budget.
“Every build has its surprises and challenges, and this was no exception,” Morrow said. “But overall, I’m very pleased with the end result and it is what we wanted.”
Steve Tripp attended the open house. He said he has two golden retrievers he takes to the Minden Animal Hospital and said the added features should mean a lot to the community.
“I just wish them the best of luck,” Tripp said. “The staff is awesome and friendly and they seem very caring.”
“I’m happy with what we have achieved,” Morrow said. “Just looking forward to providing excellent services to our clients and our patients.”
