Construction started this week at Kitsap Humane Society to provide better living conditions and decrease overcrowding for dogs, according to Kelly Michaels, director of marketing and PR for the society.

As an open admission shelter where no animal is turned away, KHS’ overall capacity for dogs will increase by 20 percent or 12 new kennels, for a total of 72 dog kennels, Michaels said.

When the new kennels are completed, three distinct areas will be available for housing dogs: the improved main kennel for medium/large dogs, a new small dog kennel and the existing puppy room.

The improvements are estimated to cost approximately $90,000. About 50 percent is committed for the project, composed of individual gifts (including a $25,000 challenge grant) and multiple $1,000 kennel sponsorships. A fund-raising campaign is underway to raise the remaining funds.

KHS will launch an adoption special to “Empty the Dog Kennels” of all medium to large dogs housed in the main kennel at 50 percent off regular adoption fees. This special will run March 1 to March 10.  Owners looking for stray dogs should still come to the shelter on Dickey Road.

The new small dog kennel construction will be completed by mid April. The addition of 12 new small dog kennels will improve living conditions of small dogs by housing them in new, state-of-the-art kennels and allow KHS to increase the rescue and adoption of small dogs.

A KHS social media campaign on Facebook (facebook.com/kitsaphumanesociety) and Twitter (@KitsapHumane) to raise $25,000 in 25 days will launch March 1. This campaign will aim to raise funds to match the $25,000 challenge grant.

All regular services at Kitsap Humane Society will continue as usual, including adoption of cats and small dogs. Veterinary services, including low-cost spay/neuter and microchip clinics, animal rescue, foster care and volunteer activities will also be offered as usual.