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Help coming for stranded pets in Southend

Jun 22, 2018 | 8:00 AM

The Prince Albert SPCA is gathering food and donations to help pets left stranded due to a northern wildfire.

Volunteers and staff at the local SPCA loaded up a trailer full of supplies Thursday earmarked for Southend, where a wildfire broke out earlier this week. Hundreds of residents in the community have been moved to Prince Albert due to the so-called ‘Woods Fire,’ which is currently burning just 13 kilometres from the community at the south end of Reindeer Lake.

Jackie King runs the organization Paws Up North and has been co-ordinating donation efforts for pets in Southend. She said at least 50 to 60 dogs, and about five to 15 cats – including strays – need care and food during the evacuation order. Several people stayed behind in Southend and are helping to care for the animals, she said.

“A pet is part of your family, and when you have to evacuate a community like that and you’re forced to leave them behind, it’s a tough call to make,” King told paNOW.

Debbi Kellett, executive director with the Prince Albert SPCA, said they try to keep enough food on hand for emergencies and are happy to be able to help feed those left behind in the community. The organization is always collecting donations and has received support this week from several pet-care businesses, who are helping to provide food for the northern pets. 

“We have a lot in our storage room, so we just feel like if it’s needed, we’re going to share,” she said.

The latest update from the province listed the Woods Fire at about 5,500 hectares, nearly double the size from Wednesday. 

 

Charlene.tebbutt@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @CharleneTebbutt