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The Randolph County Humane Society's new building officially went to the dogs Saturday afternoon. Around 200 people attended the dedication ceremony of the dog facility, which was made possible through donations to the "Raising the Woof" capital campaign. Barks were abundant during festivities as RCHS board members and guests praised the efforts of shelter staff, volunteers and residents of the area for their contributions.

"Without the community support, we wouldn't be here today," RCHS Board President Johnette Totten said. "We cannot express how much we appreciate that and how grateful we are."

Saturday was National Make a Difference Day, as RCHS Board Vice President Bruce Dillon noted. Dillon said the new building will make difference.

RCHS Board member Brian McDonald explained that after he retired, his wife inspired him to become involved with the organization. McDonald recalled that the RCHS had been planning a new building for a long time and he asked a planning committee to write a list of what the facility should include. When he received the list, he drafted blue prints that would give dogs, puppies and volunteers the space they would need.

Shelter manager Kelly Scheidegger, who was described by other speakers as the "heart and soul" of the RCHS, said "kindness, compassion and caring" helped the new building come to fruition.

Delegate Bill Hartman, D-37th District, remembered the condition of the animal shelter many years ago saying it was difficult to leave the facility without a heavy heart. He commended the volunteers and employees who make the operation possible.

Randolph County Commissioner Julia Elbon praised Scheidegger, volunteers and shelter workers for their efforts.

"This is an island of hope and this shelter is a haven from hardship and a place of caring," Elbon said.

Elkins-Randolph County Chamber of Commerce President Merleene Yorkey has assisted the shelter for many years. Yorkey remembered that in 2001 she was approached by Marilyn Lowe and Marty Brewster asking for assistance at the RCHS. Since then she has seen the organization through good and bad times. Yorkey said she was happy to see the volunteers' dream come true.

"This is one of the best times I have ever seen," Yorkey commented.

Dr. Marvin Parli of the First Baptist Church in Elkins blessed the new building just before McDonald turned the keys over to Scheidegger. Afterward, seven dogs were paraded to the building; but three of them won't be using the new facility because they found their forever homes after being adopted during the event, Scheidegger said.

Scheidegger explained it will be approximately two more weeks before the dogs are permanently moved into their new building, which can house 40 to 55 dogs. The facility enables the shelter to double the capacity it had in the current building.

The new dog house features a grooming room with a new bath tub; two rooms for dogs, one for strays and another for adoption; a laundry room; a food prep room; a utility room for storage; and a clinic room, where dogs can be examined and vaccinated before they are adopted. Through a grant from PetSmart, the facility will have a new computer, floor scale and microscope.

Now that the dogs have a new roof over their heads, the RCHS will begin raising funds for a new cat facility. To make a donation to the RCHS "Raising the Woof" campaign, call Scheidegger at 304-636-7844. Donations may also be made at Citizen's Bank of West Virginia, where an account has been established for the cause. The RCHS is also planning a 2010 Fur Ball.