Mar. 15, 2024 By Anthony Medina
The Animal Care Centers (ACC) of New York City is expected to open a first-of-its-kind, full-service animal shelter in Ridgewood, according to an announcement made by ACC President and Chief Executive Officer Risa Weinstock on Wednesday, Mar. 13.
At a recent Community Board 5 general meeting, an informative presentation unveiled key details of the forthcoming 50,000-square-foot facility. Highlights included innovative building infrastructure designed to enhance pet care and the promise of new job opportunities.
The new full-service shelter facility, located at 19-06 Flushing Avenue, at the intersection of Flushing and Woodward Avenues, is expected to open to the public sometime this Spring with a capacity to hold 72 dogs, 110 cats, and other household pets like rabbits and guinea pigs, according to the ACC.
A rendering of the new full-service Animal Care Center coming to Ridgewood. Photo courtesy the Animal Care Centers of New York City/Queens Community Board 5
The shelter was named after the late Council Member Paul Vallone, a passionate animal advocate and revered elected official who died of a heart attack at 56 years old. The sudden loss of Vallone reverberated throughout the communities he served, especially to like-minded animal advocates.
Weinstock commemorated the late Council member’s instrumental partnership, which was pivotal in realizing the vision for the new shelter.
“He just always had a smile on his face and he was so encouraging that we could do this,” said Weinstock, also saying that his smile brought another level of encouragement when challenges seemed too overwhelming.
Additional features at the full-service shelter include a retractable roof that will allow animals in the shelter to experience the outdoors while remaining at the care center. The ACC site will also have parking made available for guests and clients.
Job opportunities are also coming to the ACC shelter with 80 to 100 positions for job seekers, according to the ACC. The animal care center is looking for Veterinarians, Admissions Counselors, Adoption Supervisors, Care specialists, and more listings available on their website nycacc.org/careers.