The Cochrane and Area Humane Society is wrapping up its busiest year on record.
As of yesterday, the society saw 1,700 animals during 2017, which is 300 more than last year.
The shelter currently has 267 animals in its care including those in foster care, which Jaimie Anton, the society’s fund development officer, said has been a huge help in coping with the number of rescues.
“Foster care has been enormous this year in terms of numbers that we’ve seen. We couldn’t do it without the amazing foster homes that we do have,” Anton said.
Adoptions have also been up this year. In December alone there were 112 adoptions – 65 cats during the shelter’s 12-day incentive program at the beginning of the month, which reduced adoption fees to $25.
There were 1,356 adoptions as of Dec. 19.
“We have 76 puppies right now in our care. And they are going to be coming up for adoption starting today – depending on age – over the next few weeks until about mid January, which will be the big puppy numbers coming through the shelter,” Anton said.
One way to help reduce the number of animals going to the shelter over the holiday season is to avoid gifting animals.
“Certainly we discourage people from thinking an animal makes a good gift because everybody needs to be on board because it is a long commitment and requires lots of work,” Anton said. However she added that the holidays are still an opportune time to adopt.
“The holidays aren’t necessarily a bad time to bring home a new pet because people tend to be at home more. A lot of times they have time off work and that kind of thing,” she said. “Just recognize that if you are bringing in a new pet, they might need a little time to adjust and they might need quiet time as well.”
The society hosted its annual gala on Nov. 18, which raised $35,000. All of the funds will be put toward operational costs including hospital and medical expenses and care for the animals.
The shelter is looking forward to its new 2018 program for kids, “The Critter Club” as well as the continuation of current programs such as Cats on the Mats (the yoga event) and kids’ PJ parties.
The first fundraiser of 2018 will be on Jan. 20 for the Pet-i-Cure event from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the shelter. For $10 minimum owners can get their pets a professional nail trim.
For more information, visit www.cochranehumane.ca.
Those interested in adoption, have questions or require behavioural support for their pets are encouraged to contact the society at (403) 932-2072 or [email protected].
