HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY, N.L. — The Happy Valley-Goose Bay SPCA says they have reached “crisis mode” at their shelter and have reached maximum capacity for taking in animals. To compound the problem, the SPCA has only eight foster homes, and those homes also can’t take any more cats or dogs at this time.
“We’re using the term crisis mode because, effective as of right now, we’re unable to take in any animals into our care,” said long-time SPCA board member Bonnie Learning. “And for us that’s a crisis because the need is out there, and it will always be out there. But we’re stretched to our limit in regard to resources.”
The shelter is currently full, with five cats, more than 20 puppies, and several older dogs. The SPCA is also using a local boarding kennel for extra space, which is also at capacity.
The effects of the crisis are already being felt. There are four stray dogs from Nain waiting for space to open at the shelter.
Learning only recalls one other time the SPCA has faced such a crisis at the shelter.
“Thankfully, it doesn’t happen often… but when it does come up, it’s very serious.”
The organization is pleading with the public to consider fostering, so they can alleviate the pressure that’s been put on the shelter.
“We’re just pleading-begging- for the public to consider opening their homes as a foster,” said Learning.
“When it comes to fostering, it is a responsibility, but it’s also rewarding. It’s a benefit to the animal first and foremost.”
Learning says the SPCA once had a foster list of 20 homes. But that was more than 15 years ago; since then many of those fosters have moved away or became burned out over the years.
“We also lose a lot of people when they foster, and they fall in love with their foster dogs and they end up adopting it; then they can’t foster anymore,” said Learning. “So that’s a good thing-bad thing.”
Learning wants the public to know that, if they choose to become a foster, all expenses for the animal is taken care of; from food, toys, and even blankets.
“The foster family doesn’t have to spend a penny of their own money to help out an animal.”
