The shelter will eventually be located near Sierra and Temperance.
It took twenty-three people and one dog to turn the first dirt in what will be the Miss Winkles Pet Adoption Center.
Benefactor David McDonald donated $2 million to honor Miss Winkles, his cherished dog who passed away, but her brother Rocky was there.
The former head of Pelco, now retired, knew the need, loves animals and opened his check book to make it reality.
McDonald said, "This really is a thrilling day for all of us. And you know that little Miss Winkles was really so precious to me. We still miss her. I say we, Rocky's her brother. He's here today and he was barking like crazy."
McDonald's gift was soon followed by the city of Clovis. It added another $2 million and now the dreams of those keeping animals in this limited, old building will be realized in about nine months.
Betty Cochran, Supervisor of Animal Services said, "Well with the city matching that we're going to be able to build a brand new adoption center. And hold our adoptable animals in a nice safe environment."
For McDonald it means his beloved Miss Winkles will live on in all the pets adopted from this new facility.
McDonald said, "The very best way to honor her memory and do something that would make a positive change."
A new lease of life for animals in need of good homes and good owners.
