WATCH: It’s another downside to the slumping economy; animal shelters are bursting at the seams. There are so many animals in care that two groups are now holding emergency adoption events. Jayme Doll reports.
CALGARY – Animal shelters in Calgary are holding emergency adoption blitzes this week, saying they’ve been “inundated” with homeless cats and kittens from across Alberta.
The Calgary Humane Society is holding an adoption blitz starting Wednesday until Sunday, July 12.
“Tough economic times and a mass seizure involving close to 20 rabbits on Monday, has put the Calgary Humane Society (CHS) over capacity and we are appealing to the public for help,” said a Wednesday statement from the group.
The CHS says its shelter is only meant to house 400 animals, but it’s taken in 669 animals since June 1. There are currently 823 animals receiving care at the CHS.
“While we do have emergency measures in place that will allow us to continuing operating and providing the best possible care for our animals, we are asking Calgarians who may be looking to adopt a pet to come and see us soon,” said Executive Director Carrie Fritz in a statement.
The Edmonton Humane Society had more than 400 cats in its care Thursday and was encouraging those who have thought about a cat to seriously consider adopting one now. It said the high number is not unusual for this time of year since May to September is kitten season.
Earlier this month it put out a plea on Facebook for donations of wet cat food, litter boxes, cat litter and dry cat food. It will also be having an adoption event the weekend of July 11 and 12.
The Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS) has hit capacity at over 375 cats – and will soon have to shut its doors to any new rescues.
“Kitten season is out of control this year and we are getting calls every day to help rescue and re-home cats,” said executive director Deanna Thompson.
“The last thing we want to do is turn cats away, but every shelter has their limit.”
AARCS is holding an emergency cat adoption event with reduced fees on adult cats. The society is also accepting dry and wet kitten food, gastro medical food, cat litter and financial donations to cover bills for the homeless cats currently in its care. For more information visit aarcs.ca and see the adoption event details below.
AARCS emergency cat adoption event:
Saturday, July 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Safe Haven shelter in northeast Calgary (Bay F, 3851 21 Street NE)
Calgary Humane Society emergency adoption event:
Wednesday, July 8 to Sunday, July 12
4455 110 Avenue S.E.
Cats: (7 months and over) minimum $25 donation
Rabbits: Minimum $20 donation
Dogs: (7 months-6 years) $150 + classes
Dogs: (7 years and over) $75
Birds: (Cockatiels) $10
Edmonton Humane Society adoption event:
EHS Cat Carnival on July 11 and 12
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