Dogs impounded at the Stanislaus Animal Services Agency (SASA) shelter have a new place to roam and romp outdoors rather than be caged up indoors 24/7.
Thanks to students in the Modesto Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Modesto (LeMo) Class of 2026 and the six out of 10 dog runs behind the facility at 3647 Cornucopia Way in Ceres have been improved with artificial turf to create a happier, safer space for shelter dogs to play.
During a Friday ribbon-cutting ceremony leaders celebrated the class’s “Cause for Paws” project that raised over $57,000 through the Chamber’s foundation to renovate the dog yards through more than 375 donations from businesses, organizations and residents.
Each year, the leadership class identifies and fills a critical local need.
The dog runs were renovated with durable, pet-safe turf, creating a cleaner, safer, and more comfortable space for dogs to run, play, and connect with potential adopters. This vital improvement will support healthier animals, enhance daily care, and provide a welcoming environment that helps dogs find their forever homes. This will make a lasting impact on the animals in our community’s care.
“This project stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when a group of passionate individuals, who were all strangers 13 months ago, come together with shared purpose and a commitment to serve our community,” said Kristin Mostowski, a member of the Leadership Modesto Steering Committee.
According to a class member, Linda Penfold the goal was to replace the eight enclosed yards which had been bare ground with weedy grasses and turned muddy in rains with pet rated artificial turf. Funds only covered six of the eight runs. They also were able to purchase four additional benches for families to sit on while getting acquainted with dogs to take home as family pets. The project also included the purchase of turf care and maintenance equipment, including rigs, power sweepers, sanitizing equipment, waste receptacles and extra infill.
“We could create a cleaner, safer space for dogs to exercise, play, and simply to be dogs,” said Penfold. “The turf drains well and can be sanitized, making the yards easier for SASA staff and volunteers to maintain. And we are already seeing the benefits … well, just take a look at this. Puppies and their mamas can be able to go outside and play since this installation happened.”
She noted that great teamwork “really did make this dream work.
“This project is not just about new turf. It’s not about new benches or new equipment. It’s about safer places for dogs to play. It’s about puppies and their mamas having a clean sanitized place to enjoy the outdoors together. It’s about supporting the dedicated people who care for these animals every single day. And it’s about helping dogs put their best paw forward when they need to meet their perspective families and hopefully gain their forever homes. When we improve the lives of animals, we also enrich the lives of people who love them. And when we bring animals and people together, we help build a stronger, more compassionate community. This is the lasting legacy of Cause for Paws, and this is something we are incredibly proud and honored to leave behind.”
The community may support the animals at SASA by adopting, fostering, or partnering as a rescue; or donating online or make a purchase from their Amazon Wish List. To learn more about how you can support SASA, visit StanislausAnimalServices.com.
For more information about the LeMo program, visit ModChamber.org.
