An open-grassy area at Pinellas County Animal Services has a fence now, so sick dogs have some freedom to run around and play as they recover from kennel cough.

When dogs get kennel cough they go through ten days of isolation, so they don't get much human or outside contact, said volunteer Eve Waart.

"(The dogs) sometimes start stressing out. This yard gives them a place to enjoy the open area with a volunteer without being on a leash or in a kennel," Waart said.

The new yard follows other recent improvements to make conditions better for dogs and cats as they wait for their forever homes.

"Every time I use it or walk by it, I can't help but to smile because I know those dogs are enjoying their time in the yard. And it's all about making the dogs happy and comfortable until they get to their forever home," Waart said.