Make a difference: foster an animal
by Kristine Berey
Jo-Ann Bader knows that there are no perfect solutions to all problems. When it comes to Montreal’s abandoned pet population, the challenges can seem insurmountable.
Tens of thousands of animals are abandoned in Montreal each year. After moving day in 2004, the SPCA took in 34,000 discarded companion animals. It is estimated that 45% of households with pets get rid of them within two years and that 350,000 cats are “put to sleep” in Quebec every year. Although some animals, especially cats, survive on the streets, they reproduce and make more unwanted kittens that end up freezing to death or sent to shelters where the majority will be euthanized. But sometimes, even a partial solution can make a huge difference.
Bader volunteers with Steri-Animal, a registered charity that works to reduce the number of homeless animals by trapping and sterilizing them. They work in areas where many strays have been spotted, patiently waiting for hours, until they can safely and humanely trap them. Then, they shelter them until they can be vaccinated, neutered and either released, or adopted.
The organization regularly holds adoption days in LaSalle, NDG, Westmount and Pointe Claire, and there are many volunteering opportunities. Drivers are needed to transport the animals to a temporary home until they can be spayed and adopted. Photographers are essential, especially those with a digital camera, for pictures of rescued animals to put on the organization’s website to increase their chances for adoption. Also, pictures of adopted pets are needed so the website can feature some “purr-fect” endings as well. People to help raise funds and help animate special events would also be very welcome.
But the greatest need now is to find homes for abandoned pets for a little while. “Through our adoption day I have spoken to many people over 55,” says Bader. “Many of them love animals but feel they cannot commit to adopting an animal because of their age.”
Seniors have told her they are reluctant to take on the responsibility of a pet for 15 or 20 years yet long to have a dog or cat nearby. “Some seniors would love companionship. Others have always had pets and miss it dearly.”
“Fostering a cat or kitten may be very appealing to these people and may enhance their quality of life. Taking care of these little souls can give them a feeling of accomplishment. Foster homes are so hard to come by and one of the reasons is that not enough people know about this option.”
To learn about an animal to adopt or foster, or to volunteer, call Steri-Animal at: (514) 859-9008. Animatch, another animal shelter with older dogs for adoption, can be reached at: (450) 452-0321.
