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Aid goes to the dogs In the form of a new sewer system at the humane society shelter, that is By JILL BRISKEY C logged-up drains at the Southern Oregon Humane Society constantly flood the dog kennels, rendering a number of them useless. Agency director Bill Templeman said the problem, however, goes much deeper than the $200 spent each month to repair the antiquated drainage system. An open kennel at the humane society is all too often the last hope for an unwanted pet, he added. "The more kennels we have, the more dogs we can take in," Templeman said. "When we don't have space, we can't take them in." The humane society is a no-kill shelter that operates solely on contributions. Templeman said the organization simply couldn't afford a new sewer system. But then, humane society officials hadn't counted on a plumber with a soft spot for animals. Dennis Kottke, owner of Medford-based Kottke Plumbing and Remodeling Co., knew first-hand about those drainage problems. Every time the system backed up, Templeman called Kottke's company for repairs. Tired of grappling with an ancient septic tank, Kottke said he agreed to donate his time and equipment to help the humane society hook up to Medford's sewer line. "We're just trying to support the community," Kottke said. "We've always done a lot for them anyway." A number of community organizations, business and residents climbed on board to donate materials, labor and cash. "It's a very big project for us," said Kathy Pilolla, development director for the humane society. "We're really excited about it." "This is something we've been trying to do for a long time," said Templeman. "It will make conditions so much better for the dogs. We don't want to add to their misery." The work, which began this week, will take up to a month to finish. Old drain lines will be dug up, removed and new pipes installed. Walkways, deteriorated by the flooding, will be repaired. The old septic tank will be sealed and hauled away. Other expenses that haven't been donated - such as permit fees and a $1,500 pump - are being paid for with the humane society's building fund. However, Templeman said the humane society is still seeking cash donations to finish paying for the project. The organization is also in need of dog beds to provide comfort to canines sleeping in outdoor kennels. For more information or to make a contribution, call 779-3215. The humane society is a private, nonprofit organization founded in 1928 with an emphasis on caring for and placing homeless cats and dogs. It works to spay and neuter all pets prior to adoption, save the lives of all adoptable pets at its facility, and educate youth and adults about responsible pet ownership. Reach reporter Jill Briskey at 776-4485, or e-mail [email protected] Mail Tribune Home | Ottaway Newspapers, Inc. | Dow Jones & Co., Inc. | Privacy | Contact Us Copyright � 2001 Mail Tribune, Inc.