With over 120 animals in their care and both centres in Kitchener and Stratford almost at capacity, the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth (HSKWSP) is making an urgent appeal for community members to consider adopting or becoming a foster parent.
“We have 125 animals in care between our two centres and another 68 pets waiting for help,” said Victoria Baby, chief executive officer. “We are hoping our community will choose to adopt and add a new member to their family. If you cannot adopt, we urge you to open your hearts and homes and become a foster parent.”
Volunteer foster caregivers provide temporary homes for animals waiting to find their forever homes. A foster home significantly decreases a pet’s stress and anxiety, and having a family to care for them in a home environment ensures their overall happiness.
“We are desperately looking for volunteer foster parents until they are ready for adoption,” said Denise Rowse, manager of volunteers. “We provide training, food, supplies, and medical care, while all you have to do is provide space and lots of love.” She added there are a multitude of reasons why people give their pets up including the economy. “People being able to support their pets and provide not only good nutrition but also vet care. In a lot of instances, the only option is for them to surrender them.” She added another contributing factor is people not having their pets spade or neutered.
For those interested in adopting available dogs, the organization is also running a promotion where they have reduced adoption fees for select dogs that have been looking for their forever home for a while.
The Humane Society cares for animals in both their animal centres, as well as with the help of a large number of foster parents at both sites. Operating as a registered charity, the HSKWSP does not receive any government funding and relies on the generosity of its donors, as well as fundraising events and activities.
