County officially partners with SPCA for pound services

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on November 13, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

Cypress County says it is pleased to make a new partnership with the Medicine Hat SPCA official in an effort to help the region with both lost and stray animals, as well as preventing unwanted litters.

Previously, the county had a partnership with APARC, says bylaw officer Anna Mast, but that contract was terminated in April of this year.

“Since then, we’ve been working with the other pound services, the SPCA, to get that agreement back in place, so we have somewhere to take the dogs,” said Mast. Though the agreement had not been officially written, says Mast, the SPCA has been helping the county with pound services in the meantime.

Shelter director Stacey Fettig says the SPCA is thrilled to be able to provide these services for Cypress County, especially with what is a new offering for the area, they Spay/Neuter Assistance Program.

“This is something that’s needed for sure. Cypress County also has people in need of the SNAP program for low-cost spay and neuter, and we’re very excited to collaborate and help as many people as we can in the community,” said Fettig. “I think this program is going to do a lot of good in their community, as well as for the shelter.”

SNAP helps responsible pet owners facing cost barriers to get their pets fixed, reducing the population of unwanted puppies or kittens in the region and reducing the potential load on local shelters, which are often at or near capacity.

“Cypress County has not had or has not participated in the SNAP program since I’ve been with Cypress County. So this is a really nice and new change moving forward for county residents,” said Mast.

She added that this is especially helpful for the future of keeping feral animal populations down, which is something the county has previously combated with trap-neuter-release programming for cats, but this offers another layer for a stronger solution.

Fettig encourages pet owners to get their pets spayed and neutered, as it may prevent further unexpected veterinary costs for owners, as well as allows the SPCA to focus on the many animals currently in its care. At the time of writing, Fettig notes the shelter is at capacity and still seeing an “overwhelming number of intakes.”

Those who may wish to get their animals spayed or neutered are encouraged to fill out a form either online or at the Medicine Hat SPCA. Applications are dependent on financial need, and those who reach out will be asked to provide proof of income or similar documentation.

“I’m really happy … that we are part of this SNAP program now, and that we have a pound services agreement in place. Perfect. I think it’s both good for the residents and for their furry friends,” said Mast.

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