DeKALB | Sheba is an Australian Cattle Dog/German Shepherd mix. Memo is a declawed calico adult cat.

Both animals are up for adoption at the DeKalb County Animal Shelter, 16173 Baseline Rd., in Genoa.

In the past couple months, the center has expanded.

The additions have allowed the center to provide a healthier environment for the animals, said Roberta Shoaf, president of the DeKalb County Animal Welfare Center.

“We’ve added an enclosed kitten area so kittens are not exposed to illnesses adult cats may carry,” Shoaf said.

Also, Shoaf said they’ve added “get acquainted rooms,” so visitors can meet and interact with a potential new pet.

There are 100 cats and 45 dogs waiting to be adopted, Shoaf said.

Shaof said there is no time limit on how long an animal can stay at the facility.

The shelter will only euthanize unadoptable animals.

This means the ones that are aggressive, have severe injuries, or have non-recoverable illnesses will be put down, Shoaf said.

Shoaf said if the shelter is able to fix the animal’s health problem then they will, but sometimes animals are

put down not only because they may be unadoptable, but also for the health of the other animals.

Shaof said an isolation area was also part of the additions.

“We now have a complete isolation area for any animals that are brought to us with health issues,” Shoaf said.

The shelter is always grateful for donations.

“We are always in need of postage stamps, canned cat food, laundry detergent, dish soap, hand soap, vinegar and bleach,” Shoaf said. “Our needs do change and a call to the shelter will let you know what our current needs are.”

DeKalb resident Daryl Hopper has adopted four dogs, three cats and two ducks from the shelter.

“It’s the only place I will get my animals”, Hopper said.

The shelter usually does not carry ducks, but Hopper owns a farm and said she was willing to take them in.