Representatives from the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) and the Animal Humane Society announced today plans to open a pet boarding and doggie day care facility adjacent to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
The state-of-the-art facility set to open in October in a now vacant building will allow the flying public to kennel their pets while they are away, as well as provide a range of services for the public. It will be open 24 hours, officials said.
It will cost $4.25 million to refurbish the 12,000-square-foot building just off Hwy. 62 at 28th Avenue and add another 10,800 square feet. The enhanced facility will be able to board 96 dogs, 30 cats and 15 smaller animals. In addition, the facility will offer dog day care, multiple outdoor exercise and play areas, indoor play areas, a large spa, therapy pool and massage, and grooming services.
"Development of a premium boarding facility at Minneapolis-St. Paul International will provide an added convenience to pet owners not available at most airports," said MAC Executive Director Jeff Hamiel.
Shuttle buses will transport kennel users to and from the airport.
The idea for a pet boarding facility at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport came up after similar facilities opened at airports in Denver, San Diego and New Orleans.
The MAC is partnering with the Animal Humane Society (AHS) to run the facility. The AHS submitted a proposal to the MAC to run the facility last fall. AHS said it has signed a 15-year lease agreement for the airport property.
