Kennels within the St. Louis County animal shelter sit empty and the halls are silent as county officials retake control of the once-troubled animal shelter

A new chapter is beginning at the St. Louis County Animal Care and Control Shelter (ACC) in Olivette. The county has launched a Pilot Volunteer Program, designed to enhance animal welfare and promote responsible pet ownership.

After officially resuming operations last week, the county is bringing in new staff and starting a volunteer pilot program. The county's Director of Public Health Dr. Kanika Cunningham said the changes come after months of research into shelters nationwide.