By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor

Almost Home Animal Shelter has closed its doors, but not for good. The local non-profit is giving its facilities a makeover for its next chapter.

“We’re back,” says Nancy Welsh, owner.

According to Welsh, the kennel walls have already been powerwashed, thanks to a generous donation by John’s Powerwashing in Voorhees; new LED lighting – also donated – will be installed throughout the building; and Lowe’s Home Improvement in Maple Shade provided a discount on supplies for other renovation projects.

After a few weeks of “spring cleaning,” Almost Home will reopen on May 9 as a independently-run clinic rather than a shelter, offering services such as vaccinations, heart worm testing, and microchipping.

“If you call ahead, we’ll still take surrenders if we have room,” explains Welsh. “People can also still call if you’ve lost a pet or found a pet.”

To help kick-off the new chapter of Almost Home, a special celebration/fundraiser will be held at the 45th Street Pub, 2545 Rt. 130, Pennsauken, on Sunday, May 1 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. The event features all you can eat wings, salad and fries, as well as a DJ and some “fun surprises.” Tickets are $25 in advance, $28 at the door.

For more information or to order tickets, call (856) 663-3058.