Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012

FORT VALLEY, Ga. (AP) -- Authorities say they're preparing to open a new facility in central Georgia to house animals in natural disasters and other emergencies.

The $750,000 center is being called the first of its kind to open in Georgia.

The Telegraph reports that the 7,800-square-foot State Animal Facility for Emergencies at Fort Valley State University is funded by the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the state Board of Regents.

Its operation will be funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

George McCommon, a Fort Valley State associate professor of veterinary science, said the facility is geared toward housing animals in emergencies such as disasters or animal abuse cases.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for Sept. 12.

(Copyright 2012, The Associated Press)