The ongoing wildfires in Jasper have not only impacted humans but also their beloved pets. In response to the evacuation orders, the Hinton and District SPCA Animal Care Centre has stepped up to provide temporary housing for numerous pets from Jasper free of charge. This act of kindness ensures that these animals are safe and cared for until their owners can return home or make other arrangements.
Cathy Thomas, the fundraising and special projects coordinator at the Hinton SPCA, shared that the Municipality of Jasper’s bylaw enforcement reached out to them on the night of the evacuation to seek assistance for several pets left behind. Initially, they were asked to take in one dog, three cats, and a bird. However, as the situation unfolded, more animals were brought to the care center for shelter.
As of August 2nd, the Hinton SPCA had taken in a total of 21 cats, one dog, four birds, two snails, two snakes, and four fish. To accommodate these diverse pets, the staff had to get creative and repurpose rooms within the center. The pet meeting room was transformed to house the fish, snakes, and birds, ensuring that each animal had a safe and comfortable space.
The Hinton SPCA has previous experience in providing temporary housing for evacuated pets, having assisted animals from Edson during wildfires last year. This demonstrates their commitment to supporting both animals and their owners during times of crisis. Some pet owners may have been unable to retrieve their pets during the evacuation due to work commitments or time constraints. The Hinton SPCA’s willingness to offer free housing for these pets alleviates the stress and worry for owners who are unable to care for their animals at the moment.
While some pets have been reunited with their owners, many are still waiting for their families to find suitable housing where they can be accommodated. Lendy McLeod, a board member with the Hinton SPCA, highlighted the challenges faced by evacuees in finding housing that allows pets. The support from the community has been crucial in ensuring that these animals receive the care they need during this difficult time.
For pet owners who still have animals in Jasper, they can submit an online pet rescue form to ensure that their pets are accounted for and cared for. Additionally, those who wish to support the Hinton SPCA in their efforts can visit their website to explore donation options. The generosity of the community plays a vital role in helping the SPCA continue their important work in providing shelter and care for animals in need.
