A new shelter, expected to open in Spring/Summer 2025, will increase capacity with additional kennel rooms. The foster program will continue to grow alongside the new facility. Fundraising for the $6.4 million project is ongoing, and donations can be made in-person or online at www. peihumanesociety.com/donate. The PEI Humane Society is always in need of foster volunteers. Those interested can sign up at https:// peihumanesociety.com/foster/.
Communications Coordinator says. “Foster families take in animals such as kittens, puppies, and those requiring medical care or socialization until they are ready for adoption, freeing up space at the shelter itself.” The shelter accepts all companion animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, fish, reptiles, and more, however, livestock and wildlife fall under provincial jurisdiction. Animals enter the shelter through a variety of channels: owner surrenders, lost/stray programs, animal protection, or affiliated programs like Safe Haven. The intake process for surrendered animals includes a thorough examination and gathering of medical and behavioural information to prepare them for adoption. Each year, the PEI Humane Society cares for over 1,600 animals, with about a third arriving due to housing- related issues. “Safe Haven is our emergency animal housing program, offering temporary shelter for pets whose owners are facing a crisis. Individuals experiencing homelessness, personal challenges, or requiring medical care can apply for the program, which provides free interim housing for their animals. It’s important to note that Safe Haven is not a boarding service,” Travis says. “Last year, we cared for over 100 animals through this program, enabling more than 100 Islanders to access supportive housing or receive necessary medical treatment while we looked after their pets.” Adoption fees range from $185 for cats to $450 for puppies, with senior animals available for free to senior citizens through the Senior4Senior program. The fee includes spay/ neuter services and microchipping, which helps reunite lost pets with their families. “Potential adopters are encouraged to carefully consider their lifestyle before bringing a pet into their home.” Travis says, “It’s important to research breeds and understand their specific needs to ensure a happy, healthy fit.”
F ew things bring as much joy as coming home to a loyal companion. The unconditional love of a pet offers more than just companionship—it can also reduce stress, improve heart health, and support children’s emotional and social development. Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure. Other studies have found that animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost your mood. When adding a pet to your family, adopting from your local rescue is highly recommended. The PEI Humane Society first opened in July 1974 as a small, volunteer-run operation. Since then, it has grown significantly, thanks in part to a network of dedicated foster volunteers who help care for animals in need. “While the shelter’s in-house capacity fluctuates based on the type of animals and the season, the foster program greatly expands its reach,” Ashley Travis, Development and
“Potential adopters are encouraged to carefully consider their lifestyle before bringing a pet into their home. It’s important to research breeds and understand their specific needs to ensure a happy, healthy fit. ” - Ashley Travis
The PEI Humane Society 309 Sherwood Road, Charlottetown www.peihumanesociety.com
WWW.PEI-LIVING.CA / 95 / FALL 2024.WINTER 2025
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