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An influx of pets in need of fur-ever homes has forced the Winnipeg Humane Society to stop taking in animals due to diminished shelter capacity.
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“We’re looking at about 200 currently in the shelter, but we also have about 260 in foster, which is another shelter’s worth (of animals) currently in foster,” said Carly Peters, WHS Communications Director.
And they have no idea how long the intake freeze will need to be in place.
“It’s really hard to tell,” said Peters. “Things can change daily, things can change hourly. We’re just going to hold onto this because we know that we have 260 animals in foster that means they’re going to have to come back into the shelter at some point so they will need somewhere to go in order to be adopted as well. In order for us to ensure that animals coming in have the care that they need, we will probably have to hold onto this for a little bit longer.
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“I can’t say for sure when we will decide to take the freeze off.”
The shelter has reduced adoption fees to encourage more adoptions. Adult cats are now $25 each while kittens are $100. Excluding small breeds, the adoption fees for adult dogs is $50 and $150 for puppies.
“As always, the community is incredible when we put out the call for help,” said Peters. “Over the past week, we’ve seen over 100 adoptions which is fantastic. (It’s) Mostly cats which is great because cats were taking up the vast majority of adoption space right now. It’s been really incredible but we will definitely continue to promote adoption.
“Of course, if people aren’t able to adopt right now we are encouraging people to foster because as animals come in they often need a place to go. That helps leave room for animals who do need to be in the shelter longer.”
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If you’re looking for a pet, Peters advises to keep your eye on their website which is updated constantly.
“If there’s anybody there you see that you like come on down, meet them,” said Peters. “It’s great if all of the family members can come down and meet the animal so that everyone gets a good sense if it’s a good fit. Our adoption counsellors are incredible at matching people with the right pet if you’re not completely sure what you’re looking for. You can have a great discussion with them and they can likely find you the age or temperament that you’re looking for.”
WHS provides a lot of support for after you take your pet home with their behaviour team, a help line and other services.
“We’re always here to provide post-adoption support,” Peters said.
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