BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — Plans are underway to build a new pet shelter on land donated by the city as stray animals remain a problem in Livingston. The Humane Society of Louisiana has answered calls about stray and abandoned animals from Livingston residents since the late 1980s, but calls have increased in the last two years. HSLA believes the rising costs of taking care of pets are increasing the number of abandoned animals. HSLA said it costs around $400 to $500 per dog to get them fully vetted, checked for heartworms and adoption-ready. According to HSLA, the parish plans to build a new shelter that will allow them to get more stray animals off the streets. "We help as often as we can. In fact, we helped one resident who recently rescued three dogs off the streets get them vetted.  We've worked closely with different rescue groups and the sheriff's department on multiple complaints. But, this administration is serious about finally addressing the problem,' said Jeff Dorson, HSLA Director.  In a news release, HSLA said the city will vote to donate land to build a new shelter next to the existing facility and the parish has hired an architect to draw up plans. Maurie Durbon, the founder and director of Pet Aid, has worked closely with Parish President Randy Delatte on animal-related projects.  Baton Rouge car dealership to have free jambalaya, bounce house at pet adoption event "We are grateful to Maurice and President Delatte for addressing these problems and devoting their considerable skills and talents to finding some solutions. We all look forward to the day when the new shelter is open and functioning," said Dorson. Latest News 36 million Corn Poppers were made: How they pick the right ones for the Toy Hall of Fame Salsa brand founded by former LSU baseball player, wife now sold in Rouses stores Does the elevator's 'door close' button actually do anything? Flight attendants in crisis: Stripping, struggling, homeless City of Livingston could get a new pet shelter as residents see more stray animals