BC SPCA staff arrived at the East Kootenay community animal care centre to an unexpected sight on July 23: a grocery basket with four nine-week-old kittens inside was left outside the property gate.

The kittens were seemingly well-cared for — clean and in good physical condition — but serve as a reminder that pet overpopulation is a big concern for the area.

“We’re so grateful that this individual dropped the kittens off somewhere where they’ll receive help,” said Angela Mather, BC SPCA East Kootenay manager. “We don’t know how long they were there, but obviously whoever left them did what they thought was best.”

Mather says that their shelter has been overrun with kittens and cats recently, with 59 kittens and cats currently in care at their location in Cranbrook alone.

“It’s a big problem, but we never want people to feel like they can’t reach out for support. We’re here to help,” said Mather.

She noted there is a process involved with surrendering animals, which often involves making an appointment to drop an animal off so staff can be prepared for their arrival. This also provides an opportunity for staff to receive details on health and behaviour history to ensure each animal receives specialized care.

“When we know their history, we know what they’re most comfortable with. It takes the guesswork out of what food is best on their tummies, what toys they like most, if they’re afraid of men or loud noises, if they’re good with other animals. When we have those details, it helps us make the transition into a shelter environment less stressful,” said Mather.

 If individuals are having a difficult time caring for their animals, the BC SPCA can offer alternative forms of support through programs such as the pet food bank or low cost spay and neuter procedures.

Anyone curious about those services is encouraged to contact the BC SPCA East Kootenay at [email protected] or (250) 426-6751.

If a pet guardian needs to surrender their animal, they are encouraged to reach out as soon as possible. Having advanced notice allows the centre to triage accordingly.

The BC SPCA is a non-profit organization funded primarily by public donations whose mission is protecting vulnerable animals and mobilizing communities, so animals and people thrive together.

This is supported through a wide range of services, including animal protection investigations, emergency rescue and treatment, sheltering and adoption of homeless and abused animals, humane education, advocacy, farm and wild animal welfare, community services like spay/neuter programs, and wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

Photos courtesy BC SPCA East Kootenay

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