The Estevan Humane Society (EHS) successfully found homes for numerous cats through its summer adoption drive, easing the strain on its limited capacity.
EHS Executive Director Tayja Lakusta said the promotion went well, and they were able to find homes for 25 animals, opening up a few spaces. However, space for dogs remains limited.
The EHS can house 40 to 60 cats. For dogs, there are eight in-house spaces, with foster homes also taking in the animals. “That’s just dependent on the dog’s personality and how many we can hold that way too,” Lakusta said.
“Cats are taken in on a needed basis. For medical cases, we try to ensure we find space for them,” she said, noting there is sometimes a waitlist for owner surrenders.
The adoption special in July helped create more space for animals needing shelter. The number of litters each year affects how quickly spaces in foster homes and kennels become available.
Lakusta noted kitten season depends on the snowfall and when it melts. “Last year we were unlucky and had two sets of kitten season. We had an early one like normal, and then the weather stayed nice, allowing for another batch of kittens,” she said.
This year, they have seen a standard level of kittens, with a notable difference being they are arriving with their mothers rather than as orphans. “This is a benefit, as it’s difficult to find fosters for bottle-fed kittens, which require an eight-week commitment,” she added.
Lakusta noted they receive calls not just from Estevan but from other communities seeking placements for an abundance of animals. "We get calls from people needing to surrender their animals and other rescues trying to find placements."
The EHS relies heavily on volunteers who offer donations, their time, and dog-walking services. "Every single time we ask, our community steps up in one way or another," she said.
“There are many animals in need across the province and the country, and there’s just not enough space for all of them.”
The Estevan Humane Society is now looking forward to its next big fundraising event, the Duck Derby, with the early bird draw set for August 19 and the main draw on September 8. More information is available on their Facebook page.