The Wild Rose Humane Society held a grand opening in June for a new animal shelter in Didsbury that services the region, Sundre’s council recently heard.
Presenting some background information to local officials during the July 30 meeting was Dean Orlando, volunteer president, who was accompanied by Deb Kamsteeg, volunteer vice-president.
The society was first incorporated in 2007, and last year held its first casino fundraiser. The registered charitable organization purchased about 18 months ago the former veterinary clinic in Didsbury, which has since been renovated to accommodate 15 cats and eight dogs, Orlando said, adding a grand opening was held June 23.
The society, which plans on being a member of the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, serves an area spanning from Innisfail in the north and Airdrie in the south to Sundre in the west and Linden to the east, he said.
Whether members of council, municipal staff or Sundre residents, the society’s representatives extended an open invitation to anyone so inclined to visit the new shelter.
“We’re very open to that,” he said.
Additionally, any new volunteers are welcome to join the organization to help continue steering the society forward, he said.
“I’m stepping down in September to spend time with my family,” said Orlando, adding that following six years with the society, the time has come for “some new blood.”
Also, there is always an opportunity to create partnerships between municipalities such as Sundre and the society, he said.
Mayor Terry Leslie wondered about the organization’s success rates in finding new homes for rescued pets.
“We do have a foster program,” said Orlando.
“Even though we might not have them all at the shelter, we have them with foster families in the region.”
Throughout the first year of operation, the society cycled about 50-60 cats and approximately a couple of dozen dogs, he said.
The organization’s website was being revamped as of the time of his presentation to council, and Orlando said people seeking to adopt or foster a pet will be able to peruse photos and descriptions of cats and dogs online at www.wildrosehumane.ca.
