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 to seek assistance for several pets left behind. Initially asked to take in one dog, three cats, and a bird, the Hinton SPCA has since welcomed a variety of animals into their care, including cats, dogs, birds, snails, snakes, and fish.
With privacy concerns in mind, pet names and owner details have been kept confidential. The Hinton SPCA had to get creative to accommodate the influx of animals, repurposing rooms to house different species. Despite the challenges, the staff and volunteers at the Hinton SPCA have risen to the occasion, ensuring that each animal receives the care and attention they need during this difficult time.
While some pets have been reunited with their owners, many are still waiting for their families to find suitable housing where they can be together again. Lendy McLeod, a board member at the Hinton SPCA, highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the long-term care of these animals as owners navigate the challenges of finding housing in the aftermath of the wildfires.
The outpouring of support from the community has been instrumental in helping the Hinton SPCA provide for these displaced pets. Individuals interested in contributing to the cause can visit the Hinton SPCA website to explore donation options and offer their support to ensure that these animals continue to receive the care they deserve.
For pet owners who were evacuated from Jasper and still have animals at their residence, the Municipality of Jasper has provided an online pet rescue form for them to submit. This initiative aims to reunite owners with their pets and ensure that no animal is left behind or forgotten during this challenging time.
In times of crisis, it is heartening to see communities come together to support both humans and animals in need. The efforts of the Hinton SPCA and the ongoing support from the community serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion and solidarity in times of adversity.
