Nearly 300 animals rescued from Northern Alberta facility

By Emily Plihal, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, South Peace News

Approximately 300 domestic and livestock animals have been rescued from an animal rescue facility in Northern Alberta.

Valleyview RCMP organized the seizure of the animals with Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS) and Canadian Animal Task Force enlisted to intake the animals.

The seizure occurred at In the Woods Animal Rescue at Marie Reine. No charges were laid as of Nov. 6.

At this juncture the facility is being investigated, so many details of the rescue and the issues involving it cannot be released. Although many of the details of the rescue cannot be shared, AARCS executive director Deanna Thompson says the conditions the animals were living in were extremely poor.

“Two hundred ninety or more animals, including dogs, cats, a rabbit and livestock were surrendered from the two properties,” says Thompson.

“We’re not able to share details of the RCMP investigation. Our role was to take the animals to a safe place.”

Animals rescued from the facilities have been placed with more than 16 groups, including AARCS, Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF), The Alice Sanctuary, Global Animal Lovers (GALS), Peace Regional SPCA, Pitbulls for Life, Saving Grace Animal Society, Second Chance Animal Rescue Society, Bandaged Paws Animal Rescue, Bear Valley Rescue, Central Alberta Humane Society, Edmonton Humane Society, Fostering Hope Animal Rescue, Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue, MEOW Foundation, Next Chapter Animal Rescue League, and Pawsitive Match Rescue Foundation. Sixteen dogs are also being boarded at Country Club Pet Resort until they can be placed with a rescue.

“Animals will require varying levels of medical care and are still being evaluated at this time, but many require major dental surgery and spay or neuter,” explains Thompson.

“Animals will be available for adoption once they have been medically and behaviourally cleared by the organizations they are with. We’re hoping to see animals ready to find their new families within the next few weeks.”

Unfortunately, some animals had to be euthanized by the AARCS medical team, as well as some before their involvement.

“It’s important for the public to do their research when looking to surrender, adopt, volunteer, foster and donate,” stresses Thompson.

“Ensure organizations are transparent about animal care and finances and visit the sites to learn more,” she adds.

“Capacity for care is very important; it’s not just about kennel space, but staffing, veterinary care and finances to care for the animals.”

Thompson says all animals should be receiving timely veterinary care and be spayed, neutered and vaccinated prior to adoption, with all records provided. She says Animal Welfare Coalition of Alberta is a good place to start.

“Animal welfare is in crisis right now, with too many animals in need and not enough space in shelters and rescues,” Thompson explains.

“We need the public to spay and neuter their pets so as not to contribute to the overpopulation. When a pet accidentally gets pregnant and has a litter of puppies or kittens that is often seven, eight or nine more pets needing homes. If considering getting a pet, we encourage folks to look at adoption first and do their research before getting one, so they are ready for the commitment needed to care for a pet.”

In The Woods is temporarily closed to all animal intakes and adoptions, with an ongoing investigation being conducted.

Thompson reminds people to use some kindness in their communication at this time.

“We are grateful that the animals were willingly surrendered by the organization to get the care they deserve,” she says.

“Instead of focusing on the negative, energy is better spent supporting those who are now caring for the animals.”

Thompson says all levels of government need to step up and recognize that it is a societal problem that requires assistance.

“Animal welfare in our province is in crisis and shelters across the country are operating at capacity,” explains Thompson.

“It’s difficult when we have to say “No, sorry we’re full,” but it is essential that we, as shelters and rescues, understand what we have the capacity to care for, including both our physical and financial capabilities.”

She adds it is important for cases of neglect or overcrowding to be discovered early, before the issue gets too far out of hand.

“People need to ask for help and understand their capacity,” Thompson says.

“There were good intentions to help animals to start, but without the right capacity and financial resources to care for hundreds of animals, things can get out of hand easily and as a result, the animals suffer the consequences. Our communities, especially remote communities, need more governmental animal resources and society shouldn’t expect non-profit animal welfare organizations to carry the majority of the load.”

The next steps for the rescues, in this case, is to provide all the animals with the care that they require, to move them into loving foster homes, and to help them find permanent homes, that Thompson says they all deserve.

Charges in the case are pending and more information will be released at that time.