UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program

We are available to consult on shelter facility designs on an hourly basis. The emphasis of our consultations is design of a facility that is functionally aligned with the goals and mandate of the organization. Our service includes an analysis of historical and predicted population trends to assess required housing unit numbers and type; advice on facility layout; kennel/cage design; and materials and mechanical systems as they relate to disease control and animal wellness. We will interview relevant personnel regarding shelter practices, health and wellness concerns, and future goals as they relate to animal health and housing; collect population data from computer generated reports if available; review plans (these can be mailed or sent electronically); perform a site visit if desired and schedules permit; provide recommendations via phone/web conference; and offer follow up phone or email advice as needed. Our approach is practical: we have advised on projects with budgets ranging from < $100,000 to multi-million dollar facilities. Our goal is to provide suggestions that work for the organization, not that reflect a theoretical “ivory tower” standard of care. Depending on the complexity of the project the initial estimate is likely to be 10-20 hours for collection of preliminary information, review of plans, phone conferences to provide initial recommendations and follow up. Typically charges for a design consultation run $5,000 - $10,000 depending on the scope of the consultation. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact sheltermedicine@ucdavis.edu.