The Weyburn Humane Society (WHS) is making it easier to adopt a new furry companion, while also easing the burden on the shelter, with August adoption month. The adoption fee for all cats and dogs in their care will be only $50 for the entire month of August.
Shelter manager for the WHS Colleen Morrice says they see a notable decrease in adoptions, especially cat adoptions in the summer. She attributes this to the upcoming winter season.
“Usually this time of year, cats and kittens start coming in. People start seeing the weather is going to be getting colder so they start bringing in mums and kittens. And right now we really have a super load of them.”
Morrice explains that the shelter is currently at capacity, and on an intake freeze, meaning they are unable to take in any more animals. The adoption month is intended to help free up space so they can help more animals in need.
“I know the public gets very disappointed in us when we say we can't. But we absolutely can't take any more animals. It's for the health of the animals themselves. We only have so much room and we don't want them even more cramped than they already are.”
The issue calls to light the importance of existing pet owners to ensure their animals are spayed and neutered. This is not only important to the health and wellbeing of the animal, but also the growing population of unwanted pets.
“I speak this over and over and over again. There are so many unhomed animals in the world. And unfortunately, the shelters, rescues, we just can't keep up. There are just way more animals than there are people to care for them.”
It will be easier than ever to take in an animal in need, as Morrice explains anyone can visit the shelter and fill out an application. Every pet is already spayed or neutered and microchipped.
“Come into the shelter, fill out an application. Upon approval, you get to take that animal home - sometimes it will be the same day. Also included in that $50 is a free vet checkup at Prairie Animal Health here in Weyburn, complimentary of themselves.”
Morrice outlines what people should keep in mind when deciding whether to adopt, including financial and lifestyle considerations.
“Make sure that you have money set aside for vet bills. Sometimes there are unexpected vet bills that arise, so you want to make sure you have a little bit set aside for that. Also, there are vaccines every year. They also need food, of course. And where are you going to take them when you go on a holiday or if you have an emergency? Always have a backup plan for them.”
Find an album of adoptable pets on the Weyburn Humane Society Facebook page.