T-R File photo There are many cats available to adopt at the ARL, and those interested can schedule an appointment to visit.

The Animal Rescue League announced its partial reopening on Monday. The facility closed its doors to the public on July 9 after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.

Visits are restricted to adoptions, with visitors required to schedule an appointment and have an approved adoption application on file. Everyone must wear masks in the facility.

Executive director Shelly Nodland said staff has been busy disinfecting the facility.

According to her, the ARL has been short-staffed and there has been a decrease in volunteers.

“It’s been kind of a struggle,” Nodland said.

She encourages people to volunteer, which will help the ARL care for animals during this difficult time. Volunteers will be spaced out to keep everyone safe.

“Volunteers have been limited… There are a lot of things that volunteers can still help us do,” she said.

Those who are interested in helping out can contact volunteer coordinator Jessica Slifer.

For those interested in adopting, Nodland said they do not have many dogs but they are getting more.

“But we have a lot of cats. We have a full house of cats and kittens,” she said.

Potential adopters who have not filled out an adoption application can find the form on the ARL’s website or at the facility. Once the application is approved, they can set up an appointment to come see the animals.

Nodland also wants to remind people of the Pet Food Pantry available to people financially affected by the pandemic. There is still plenty of food and people can call the ARL when they are in the parking lot to have the food brought out. The hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

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Contact Anna Shearer at 641-753-6611

or ashearer@timesrepublican.com.