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As a result of a generous legacy of £1.3 million made by the Coco Markus will trust, Wood Green Animal Shelters were able to build state of the art kennels which were officially opened on the 26th April 2003.

The design of the kennels is the result of much discussion between architects, vets and other animal specialists including carers and behaviourists.  The plans incorporated the latest designs in animal accommodation as well as completely original concepts, with the emphasis on the well-being of the dogs.

Rather than having purely internal rooms, the kennels have been designed essentially as "sheltered external spaces" with heated sleeping areas.  Each kennel can house 2 dogs; a total of 74 dogs can be accommodated at any one time.  The kennels have purpose built 'dog flaps' to allow the dogs access to both internal and external areas at all times - as and when they choose.

Increased air flow helps to reduce the possibility of airborne diseases such as kennel cough, and increased ultra-violet light from the roofing benefits the dogs by helping to evaporate any standing water and, thus, reduce the micro-climate normally associated with dog kennels.