Board approves small canine sanctuary at Murphy property with operational conditions

The Morgan County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a special exception Feb. 23 to allow Susan Murphy to operate a small canine sanctuary and rescue‑support facility, "Moose and Maggie's Lodge," at 6380 Spring Lake Road in Madison Township.

Murphy, a long‑time animal shelter volunteer, described a 30‑by‑48‑foot building intended to house up to eight dogs, indoor care and grooming space, and small, monitored outdoor runs for short bathroom and enrichment breaks. She told the board the facility would take animals from local rescues and municipal shelters, provide emergency fostering and limited sanctuary placements, and use fencing and an "airlock" double‑gate system to prevent escapes.

Neighbors raised noise concerns: John Grider, who lives adjacent to the property, said he can hear dogs and worries about the ability to keep windows open in summer. Murphy and board members noted the proposed building site is centrally located on 19 acres, with the closest residence about 700–900 feet away; Murphy described plans to site the structure and runs to minimize noise and to keep dogs outside only briefly.

Staff and the Morgan County Health Department reported no objections and recommended approval; the board voted to grant the special exception, finding the applicant met the six special‑exception criteria. The approval allows Murphy to work with local rescues and volunteers and requires standard permitting and inspections for septic, water and other utilities.