Briarcliff Manor SPCA opens new $9 million rescue center

The Westchester SPCA at Briarcliff Manor has a brand new look.
"I've really seen the transformation from old, ancient buildings that were literally held together by zip ties and bungie cords to this incredible, beautiful building,” says executive director Shannon Laukuf.
Each room was designed to feel like home.
Room themes include an old English library and what Laukuf calls a “purr-ty-city room.”
“Think Cat Side Story kind of like ‘West Side Story,’ but it’s sort of our skate park room,” she says.
Laukuf says the nonprofit had a Tony-nominated Broadway set designer help to outfit some of the “cat-eries.”
Kitty condos feature a litter box basement, lounging level, eating level and a penthouse.
Longtime volunteer and donor Meghan Mcclellan-Whitten says the new homelike atmosphere allows for, “families and potential adopters (to) come interact with those dogs and see how they get along with every family member."
The center went from five buildings into one building.
It has 27,000-square feet and can house about to 30% more animals than before.
Laukhuf says it’s a thrill to not have to turn animals in need away because they can now house so many more.
The $9 million came from donations and grants from the state.
“It’s sort of seemed like a very large task to raise that kind of money, but we are so grateful,” says Laukhuf.
There is also a revamped, low-cost vet clinic.
The no-kill shelter is open by appointment only.