The City of Irvine highlighted its commitment to providing a safe, clean, enriching, and caring environment for animals awaiting adoption during a groundbreaking ceremony Monday, August 5, for the Irvine Animal Care Center expansion and renovation project.

City Councilmembers, staff, and volunteers came together to celebrate the project, which will enhance the center's facilities, allowing it to better serve the community and the animals it cares for.

“Today, we are taking an important step toward enhancing animal care services in Irvine,” said Irvine Mayor Farrah N. Khan. “The Irvine Animal Care Center has been a vital part of our community for more than 40 years. This long-awaited expansion and renovation project will not only enhance the care and comfort of our animals for years to come, but it will also provide a better experience for our visitors and staff.”

When complete, the center will offer visitors a highly visible, welcoming entrance; an updated reception area; animal interaction areas; and multi-purpose rooms for adoption events, training, and meetings. The animals will enjoy upgraded kennels, improved air conditioning, and renovated activity yards to improve their care and comfort. Irvine Animal Care Center staff will benefit from updated administration spaces, a renovated secured parking area, and a new modern clinic, sized to accommodate the animals present.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the center will be LEED Gold certified, a prestigious level of recognition that a building has excelled in sustainable design and operation.

The center will remain open during the renovation process, utilizing temporary facilities, existing spaces, and newly renovated areas to continue its operations seamlessly. Animals will continue to receive the highest level of care. Temporary locations will be set up as needed, complete with barriers, to ensure animal safety, comfort, and well-being.

The project is set to be completed by summer 2026.

“As we break ground today, we envision a future where the Irvine Animal Care Center continues to be a beacon of hope — a place where animals find love, families find companionship, and our animal and human community thrives,” said Irvine Animal Care Center Manager Mike Cribbin.

The Irvine Animal Care Center has been committed to protecting, caring for, and finding loving homes for animals since it opened in 1982. Services include licensing for Irvine residents and pet adoptions.

The center also offers enhanced care for animals that have been injured, neglected, or need additional medical treatment. Its Third Chance for Pets program transfers animals from overcrowded shelters where they may have limited chances for adoption and brings them to the center for a chance at finding their forever home.

View photos from the groundbreaking event.

Learn more about the Irvine Animal Care Center by visiting irvineanimals.org.