A refurbished shipping container that serves as a dog kennel will help Manteca step up its efforts to get the homeless off the streets and into the navigation center homeless shelter at 555 Industrial Park Drive.

The Manteca City Council accepted the donation of the 8- by 40-foot refurbished insulated container kennel Tuesday from the Stockon-based Vault Co.

It can house up to 10 dogs.

It is equipped with heating and air conditioning to provide a secure, temperature-controlled shelter for dogs belonging to residents receiving services at the Center.

Dogs will also have access to a secure outdoor kennel area.

The kennel will support the City’s low-barrier shelter model by allowing individuals experiencing homelessness to remain with their pets while receiving services.
Those that work with the homeless to encourage them to access services at the shelter indicate that those with pets are extremely reluctant to do so if it means their dog being put in less than stellar conditions such as a cramped cage.

The homeless can take out their dogs during the day but when it comes to sleeping, the dogs will use the kennel.

His Way Refuge Center, the City’s contracted operator of the Center, will oversee the daily operations of the kennel area.

Residents will remain responsible for feeding, bathing, supervising, and cleaning up after their dogs.

The City will coordinate with the Manteca Animal Services Division to connect residents with pet licensing, vaccinations, and access to low-cost spay and neuter services.

Maintaining current pet records and required documentation may also assist residents with future housing placement.