I signed up w/CitySearch to respond to these ratings. The last time I was at Kay's was as a youngster 32 years ago, and brought home my favorite childhood cat. I returned yesterday, and the building lay out is the exact same, indoors and out. The buildings on the property are nicely maintained, clean, the grassy exercise area is neat, trimmed, full of toys, and tables for people to get to know the dogs.
When I walked in, it was exactly as I remembered it, there are a lot of pet supplies there stacked everywhere, but they are all DONATIONS. From locals who believe in this place - so that clutter stuff is priced to sell cheaply, some newer stuff, very cheap too. I saw a nice $10 cat carrier, I've seen for $45 at the stores, it needed some cleaning, but good nonetheless.
The cat I took home with me blew me away, he was nearing 6 months of age,the last of a litter, even his mom had gone, and he just sat there month after month. I could not believe how well-socialized he was. He leapt into my arms and curled up and purred readily, he does well with the dogs there, and warmed up to my kids at home quickly. For an older kitten's only life experiences to be born on the streets, then residing in a shelter cage; and to have extraordinary socialization skills during this time speaks volumes to the commitment of the shelter keepers. We've had cats over the years and my husband is very impressed with him, hubby is very particular.
Additionally, I took some dogs out, and what I noticed right away was how spotless and clean the cages were. I can't imagine a Husky cramped into a dog kennel because the kennels are pretty big. What is depressing is the fluorescent lighting and cinder block style walls and floor; but the place is probably 40 years old. Much different in aesthetics than modern facilities.
The owners knew every animal inside and out, where they came from, what their story was, and their temperament.
All animals get sick in shelters or pet stores. I was recently at a pet store w/puppies and there was a horribly ill Pug that could barely breath given all of the mucus - he was on display in the window. WHat I""m trying to say, is that animals do get sick in communal housing. That sick puppy mill dog was priced at $1399. Get a gorgeous, devoted, properly socialized one at Kay's for under $300.
Give this place a chance, they have been committed to the animals for nearly 4 decades, and locally supported by the community.
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