The ongoing wildfires in Jasper have not only impacted humans but also their beloved pets. In a heartwarming display of community support, the Hinton and District SPCA Animal Care Centre has stepped up to provide temporary housing for numerous pets from Jasper free of charge 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 on July 23. Initially, they were asked to take in one dog, three cats, and a bird. However, as the situation unfolded, more and more pets were brought to the care centre for safekeeping.
As of Friday, August 2, the Hinton SPCA had taken in a total of 21 cats, one dog, four birds, two snails, two snakes, and four fish. The staff had to get creative with their space to accommodate all the different types of animals, repurposing rooms to ensure each pet had a comfortable and safe environment.
While the names and owner details of the pets are being kept private, it is clear that many owners were unable to retrieve their pets during the evacuation. Shift workers, hospital employees, and individuals who were away from home at the time of the evacuation found themselves unable to reunite with their furry friends. The Hinton SPCA has become a temporary home for these pets, offering them shelter and care until their owners can take them back.
Lendy McLeod, a board member with the Hinton SPCA, highlighted the challenges that pet owners are facing in finding housing that accommodates their pets. Some owners have been able to reclaim their pets, but others are still in the process of securing suitable living arrangements. The Hinton SPCA has reassured pet owners that their animals will be cared for free of charge until they can be reunited.
The outpouring of support from the community has been overwhelming, with many individuals coming forward to offer assistance and donations. For those interested in supporting the Hinton SPCA, donations can be made through their website, where a list of donation options is available.
As the situation continues to evolve, pet owners who still have animals at their evacuated residences in Jasper are encouraged to submit an online pet rescue form. The Hinton SPCA remains committed to providing a safe haven for these pets until they can be returned to their owners.
