CASCO Pet Expands Wellness Mission with Launch of New Shelters Division

CASCO Pet, a global animal housing and cabinetry provider, has expanded into the animal shelters sector with the launch of a dedicated new division focused on welfare-driven housing solutions.

The division will be led by Tori Williams, former COO of Fear Free, who joins CASCO Pet to drive the development of practical, cost-effective animal housing designed to reduce stress, support wellbeing and increase adoption outcomes in shelter settings.

Building on CASCO Pet’s long-standing work designing low-stress, enriching housing environments in the veterinary and pet retail sectors, the shelters division aims to provide calmer, quieter and more comfortable spaces for animals in care. The company will also support shelter organizations in exploring fundraising opportunities to help with facility improvements.

As part of the initiative, CASCO Pet has partnered with Therian, whose deep understanding of shelter operations complements CASCO Pet’s design and manufacturing expertise, to develop environments that better meet the needs of animals and care teams.

Research shows that poor housing can impair animal health and wellbeing,^[1] while enriched environments promote natural animal behaviors – factors linked to improved adoptability in shelters.

Tori Williams, Head of Shelters at CASCO Pet, said: “Shelters are often where pets are at their most vulnerable. Thoughtful, evidence-based design can make a meaningful difference to daily wellbeing and help support better adoption outcomes, giving animals the best possible chance of a new life. CASCO Pet has built a powerful reputation for creating stress-reducing environments in pet retail and veterinary spaces, and expanding this mission into shelters and humane organizations feels both purposeful and necessary. I’m honored to lead the expansion into this sector to support animal welfare teams and improve the lives of pets in their care.”

Matthew Bubear, CEO of CASCO Pet, said: “The animal shelter and rescue sector has been crying out for modern housing solutions that prioritize animal welfare and stress reduction. By combining our global housing expertise with Therian’s operational insights, we aim to deliver high-performance, wellness-focused environments that help animals feel safe, calm and comfortable and increase their chances of adoption. I’m delighted to have Tori on board to lead that mission.”

CASCO Pet’s shelters range is designed to align with Fear Free principles and informed by research demonstrating that materials such as glass significantly reduce audible stimuli, helping lower animal stress.

The kennels feature high-strength tempered safety glass doors in place of traditional stainless-steel grid fronts. This reduces noise and visual stress between animals, creating a calmer kennel environment that helps put animals at ease, and improves visibility for caregivers, for easier, safer and more efficient monitoring.

Glass surfaces also support better sanitation, simplifying daily cleaning routines and strengthening disease control, while tempered glass upper sections allow natural light and airflow into each kennel. These enhancements create a more comfortable and welcoming space for animals, and an improved experience for visitors.

[1] Gourkow N and Fraser D. The effect of housing and handling practices on the welfare, behavior and selection of domestic cats (Felis sylvestris catus) by adopters in an animal shelter. Anim Welf 2006: 15; 371–377.