The Cochrane & Area Humane Society (CAHS) will be taking animals from the city of Airdrie under its wing.
“We are really excited. We always strive to be a leader in animal care and be a leader in education and welfare,” said Tracy Keith, CAHS executive director.
“The residents and businesses in Airdrie have been very receptive.”
The society welcomed its first Airdrie cat, Bosley, last week. Brought in by a “caring” citizen, it is assumed Bosley was on the streets for “quite some time” due to his body condition and a head injury. Currently on the mend, the black and white furball will be available for adoption once he makes a full recovery.
“We have been known to help rural communities, we have that reputation for sure,” Keith said. “There are a lot of good things planned and it is certainly a community that appreciates the help.”
The expansion comes after “years of requests” for help from residents in Airdrie. While there have been independent animal-rescue start-ups throughout the years, Airdrie does not have an official animal rescue service, Keith explained.
“There were a couple of groups in Airdrie and we wanted them to be successful – tried to give them support – but none of them have gained enough traction, so moving forward we will be doing it ourselves,” Keith said.
The expansion to Airdrie will include the services that are available in Cochrane, including the lost and found program, surrendering pets, and an education program that the staff is currently getting organized to hopefully be offered in the city soon.
The Cochrane & Area Humane Society was founded in 1998 after a partnership between Charlene Ruttle, the Town of Cochrane animal control officer and Tracy Keith to rescue and re-home lost, unwanted and surrendered animals. Now the society also offers educational programs and rural spay/neuter programs.
The society is funded through donations and public fundraising events, such as upcoming second annual Hair of the Dog fundraiser on April 22 and 23 at the Texas Gate.
For any questions about the expansion or programs offered by the Cochrane & Area Humane Society, contact the CAHS staff at 403-932-2072 or email [email protected].
