(CFJC Today/File photo).
Evacuated Animals

Kamloops SPCA’s evacuated animal load lightens, still in need of items for those who can’t go home

Aug 23, 2021 | 12:57 PM

KAMLOOPS — The Kamloops SPCA Branch and temporary evacuation centre has seen 172 evacuated animals come through its doors since wildfire activity increased in early July.

As of Monday (Aug. 23), 37 animals are being cared for by the Kamloops SPCA, with another 20 animals who initially came through its branch that were transferred to other locations. Those 20 animals will be transferred back once their owners are ready to redeem them, or when the Kamloops shelter has more capacity to house them.

“With the weather being cooperative, some animals have gone home – Logan Lake evacuees redeemed their animals,” Kamloops SPCA Animal Care Specialist Ya-Ting Chang says. “The shelter is not as busy as before, but we definitely still have evacuee animals at the branch and other locations. Unfortunately, some evacuees are not able to go home. We’re still here to help them. [Their owners] are staying at hotels or their friend’s homes. We have their animals here, or we still provide some supplies to them to help them relieve some stress.”

Some of the SPCA’s needs for evacuated animals in the time being include:

  • soft dog treats
  • canned dog food
  • dog toys
  • cat treats
  • cat carriers
  • large and extra-large size dog collars and leashes
  • cat litter boxes and cat litter
  • garbage bags
  • paper towels
  • toilet paper
  • gift cards to pet stores or grocery stores

According to Change, the good news the Kamloops SPCA has space for more evacuated cats and dogs if wildfire activity picks up again.

Since early July, volunteers have assisted with animal care, laundry, general cleaning, dog walking and even transporting animals to other communities. Chang says the SPCA is good with its volunteer support, although they’ll let the community know what kind support they’ll need in the future.