Not only is the society revamping its Chippawa Parkway office but also its policies -- all to create a more positive space for the animals, staff and the community.

"There is a lot of cool stuff happening here," said Cathy Fraser, manager of communications for the organization.

Among the changes are a series of upgrades to the building to help improve the health of the animals.

Wood tables, which according to manager Jay Vesroches can harbour disease, are being replaced with the stainless steel variety.

The addition of a state-of-the-art ventilation system will help curb the threat of airborne diseases.

"It's common for cats to have upper respiratory problems," said Vesroches. "The problem is essentially like a cold."

Vesroches said they have been experiencing a very busy season, with cats coming in almost every day.

The former boardroom, once used for staff meetings, is now home to 42 new cat cages.

"It shows where our priorities are," joked Fraser. "It's not about us. It's all about the animals."

The addition of cages works hand-in-hand with the society's new 'no kill' policy, which states that animals shall not be euthanized as a result of a lack of space.

"Animals are never to be sacrificed for space," said Fraser.

According to Fraser, the policy will only allow terminally ill animals or those who are suffering, or who are vicious and unlikely to be adopted to be euthanized.

Last year, 1,000 cats and 34 dogs were put down, partly due to lack of space at the Niagara Falls location.

"It's heartbreaking," said Fraser. "A lot of the staff take the animals home."

The NFHS is also introducing a foster program, where members of the public can bring animals home for short periods of time to help free space for other animals at the shelter.

Volunteers will need to fill out a form and be screened. "It's the same process for adoption," said Fraser.

According to Vesroches, the NFHS will help the foster families absorb some of the costs of keeping the pet, if needed.

The program is a huge help for the staff and the animals in need, noted Vesroches.

The NFHS is also working on revamping its website, which will feature profiles of all the animals available for adoption or fostering.

Staff encourages members of the public to come down, see the changes, meet the animals and possibly donate to help their cause.

The NFHS is located at 6025 Chippawa Pkwy.

The society will also be at Petsmart in St. Catharines December 13 and 14. Santa Claus will be on-hand for photographs with pets and their owners. All proceeds go towards the NFHS.