Local animal shelter to close facility in February

THREE WAY, Tenn. — Beyond Bars Animal Rescue is closing the doors to its shelter.

After more than two years of operating out of the “big house,” BBAR said they need to find a new home. “These little guys are the priority. These are what we spend hours and thousands of dollars saving,” BBAR President Whitney Owen said.

BBAR Volunteers said they’ve outgrown the building and have unsuccessfully tried to find a new place for several months. “We’ve got enough animals in our program at this point that it’s just not a good fit anymore,” Owen said.

The rescue group said their current building in Three Way was initially built to hold construction equipment.

Despite BBAR closing the shelter, the rescue will still carry out its mission of saving animals. “We’re not going anywhere until we have fosters for every dog we’ve got,” Owen said.

BBAR had plans to close at the end of January. Because there are about 10 animals still housed inside the shelter, they will remain open through February but are not accepting any additional animals at this time, according to Owen.

Owen said the nonprofit is in desperate need of foster families for the remaining animals.

If accepted to foster one of the rescued animals, BBAR said they will provide food, a crate if needed, toys and cover vet costs for the pet. “Whatever you need to make the experience better for you and the dog,” Owen said.

Anyone interested in applying can visit the BBAR website. A home inspection will be done as part of the application process.