As flooding threatens hundreds of homes in the Regional District of Central Kootenay and Kootenay Boundary, the BC SPCA is reaching out to offer support for pet guardians.
“We want to remind people that the SPCA is here to help if an emergency does occur,” says Tracy Westmoreland, regional manager for the BC SPCA. “We can provide emergency boarding for pets if families have to be evacuated, as well as providing pet food and other supplies if individuals cannot access them.”
“We can provide temporary accommodation for dogs, cats and small animals at our Castlegar and Nelson SPCA locations,” says Westmoreland. “In addition, we can provide pet food, crates, food and water bowls, bedding, leashes, collars and toys for pet guardians who may not have access to these supplies during evacuation. Anyone needing assistance is asked to please contact the Castlegar SPCA at 250-509-0297 or the Nelson SPCA at 250-352-7178.
Westmoreland said the BC SPCA is also calling for public donations of unopened dry and canned pet food and cat litter. “If anyone is able to donate these supplies, they can be dropped off at either the BC SPCA in Castlegar at 124 Heritage Way or the BC SPCA in Nelson at 520-C Falls Street. We are so grateful for these donations and we will ensure that they get distributed to pet guardians in need.”
The BC SPCA also offers a free emergency checklist to ensure that animal guardians are prepared if they need to evacuate with their pets.