MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Servicemembers inbound or outbound to Misawa Air Base, Japan, now have a temporary home for their cat or dog with the opening of the base's new kennel. The kennel can house 21 dogs and 14 cats.

"We know there's a need," said Robert Smith, chief of Misawa's Community Support Flight. "This isn't just for people who are (moving) in or out. If you're going away for a month, you can bring your dog or cat here and they can stay with us."

Misawa's pet kennel replaces the base's pet suites to make way for new lodging. The new facility comes after a $200,000 restoration of an old warehouse by Misawa's civil engineer squadron.

The facility is equipped with heat and air conditioning and features an indoor play area. The pet kennel will be open seven days a week, including holidays.

For more on the kennel's grand opening, see the accompanying video.