Sissy is one of several adoptable cats who remain in SAHS's care. Two-and-a-half-year-old Sissy is looking for a loving home where she will be the only cat. She loves napping, sunbathing and window watching.--PHOTO COURTESY SAHS FACEBOOK
kking@medicinehatnews.com
The Southern Alberta Humane Society recently announced it would be closing permanently, and while many are saddened by the closure, SAHS president De Seaton says she is also proud of all the organization achieved in its four years of operation.
Seaton announced the closure via Facebook, stating health concerns led to her to resign from her role as president, and, unable to find a replacement, operations could not continue.
“This has not been an easy decision,” Seaton said. “I’m sure this has left a gap as all rescues are overflowing.”
Seaton established the Medicine Hat-based non-profit organization in February 2019, with the overall goal of saving the lives of local animals, including those in shelter, strays and wildlife.
Early in its operation, SAHS focused largely on reducing the number of animals euthanized in local shelters by providing alternative care options, like fostering. But as the organization grew, so too did its scale of service.
“We rescued animals,” said Seaton. “We placed hundreds of animals in their forever homes, we spayed/neutered pets that owners could not afford, helped owners with emergency vet costs, brought the Canadian Animal Task Force to Suffield, created awareness about the number of abandoned bunnies in Medicine Hat (and assisted in the creation of Bunny Run Rabbit Rescue), created awareness for animals in need, and donated time, food, equipment and supplies.”
Seaton says she is most proud of the organization’s commitment to not euthanizing animals, and confirmed the only animals euthanized were those with severe medical issues which affected the animal’s quality of life and could not be treated.
“I do feel we made a difference,” said Seaton, citing also the organization’s efforts to raise awareness of the benefits of spaying and neutering.
“I would like to offer my personal thanks and gratitude to the generous individuals and corporations that have donated their time and resources to help the society,” she said. “Because of your support and generosity we have been able to help hundreds of animals.”
While the organization is officially defunct, several birds and cats remain in its care awaiting adoption.
“We will keep our Facebook active as we continue to support our fosters and care for these animals until their forever homes can be found,” said Seaton. “And we would gladly accept monetary donations to support animals remaining in our care.”
Seaton requests anyone wanting to make a donation connect with SAHS via Facebook to do so. She also encourages community members to continue supporting other local animal welfare organizations, many of which are experiencing capacity issues and actively seeking foster families.
