Hart County Animal Shelter closes after storm damages facility, knocks out phones and internet

HART COUNTY, Ky. (WNKY) – The Hart County Animal Shelter remains closed to the public after Tuesday evening’s severe storms damaged the facility and knocked out phone and internet service.

According to the Hart County Fiscal Court, no animals were injured during the storm. Strong winds caused mainly exterior damage to the shelter, damaging fencing around outdoor kennel areas, while heavy rain caused minor flooding inside the building. Shelter staff said several dogs were briefly unaccounted for after fencing was damaged, but all of the animals have since been safely recovered.

Anthony Roberts with the Hart County Animal Shelter said staff first learned about the damage through social media before rushing to the facility.

“Someone posted that the animal shelter got hit and dogs were running all over the place,” Roberts said. “We come on out here… and did have some dogs running loose… they wanted to get back in. I guess they were scared.”

Roberts said the storm left damaged power lines, destroyed outdoor kennels and tore up portions of the shelter’s fenced areas.

Despite the damage, he said the community quickly stepped in to help.

“The turnout of people that came out, it makes you feel really good,” Roberts said. “We had close to 30 people show up. It makes you feel real good that people show up to help out.”

Shelter staff and volunteers spent Tuesday night and Wednesday morning clearing debris, cleaning flooded kennels, replacing bedding and making sure the animals had fresh water and a safe place to stay.

The shelter says staff remains on site caring for the animals while crews assess damage and continue cleanup efforts.

If a community member wishes to help, the shelter says it is accepting donations for the following items:

• Sun shades
• Tarps
• Bungee cords

Donations can be dropped off at either the Hart County Courthouse (Fiscal Court) at 200 Main St. in Munfordville or the Hart County Animal Shelter at 2190 S Dixie Highway in Munfordville.

Roberts said the shelter is also looking ahead to the construction of the new Hart County Animal Haven, which is expected to resume soon. Unlike the current shelter, the new facility will house all animals indoors, providing greater protection during future severe weather events.