• Although employees and volunteers try their best, animal shelters are woefully underfunded in many areas. Too often, animal shelters resemble massive industrial complexes filled with rows of cages. Although it will not solve the problems of funding, a fresh coat of paint is an inexpensive way to spruce up a shelter and make it more comfortable for the animals, their caregivers and potential adoptive families.
  
  

Inviting Colors

• Different colors are associated with different moods. Choose warm, inviting colors to inspire adoptions. Shades of yellow and orange are good choices, although extremely bright shades could make the animals and staff edgy and uncomfortable. Stay away from red, which can increase passion and anger. Soft rose is a more comforting choice.
  
  

Soothing Colors

• Many animals have stress when they arrive at a shelter. Cool, calming colors can help them relax. Hospitals sometimes use shades of pastel blue and green. Stay away from bright blue, which can be cold and depressing. Brown connects to the earth and can help create a more naturalistic environment.
  
  

Murals

• If you have the budget or have a talented artist on staff, a mural is an excellent way to rid the shelter of an industrial feel. Nature scenes can open up a small, crowded shelter and are a particularly good choice if the shelter has little natural light. Stylized murals that depict the interaction between children and animals add whimsy and are eye-catching to potential adoptive families.
  
  

Colors to Avoid

• Use bold, bright shades of any color sparingly. A brightly painted room cluttered with animal kennels can seem small and closed in. Stay away from black and stark white, which denote a sterile, cold environment.
  
  

Cleaning Considerations

• Animal shelters attract dust, dirt and insects and must remain exceptionally clean. Choose colors that do not show dirt in a paint type such as latex enamel that can withstand repeated scrubbing. Beige, khaki green and some shades of gray are particularly good at hiding stains. Textured paint and faux finishes further help to mask imperfections.