22 October 2012

Quarantine Lifted for Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society

Following several weeks of segregation, the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society announced last week that quarantine has been lifted, operations are back to normal and nearly 450 animals are ready for adoption. 

A suspected ringworm outbreak in early August forced the suspension of adoptions and euthanasia of four animals. Shelter staff worked tirelessly for weeks to manage and treat the illness and clean the facility. In fact, the society says it spent more than $45,000 on medications, cleaning products, special clothing for staff and the acquisition of two trailers used for quarantine and shelter overflow purposes.

A massive collaborative effort by dozens of surrounding humane societies, SPCAs and individuals ensured that the impact of the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane closure was as minimal and smooth as possible. Donations of food, supplies and materials poured in from across the province. 


I also want to recognize and thank the many organizations that supported and assisted us with information, advice and in some cases, considerable assistance in housing our animals.   -  Jack Kinch, Executive Director, KWHS Humane

Quarantine resulted in a number of obstacles, which the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society must now overcome. During its closure, the shelter continued to accept stray or abandoned animals leaving the facility at capacity. At the same time, the shelter closure reduced adoption revenue by more than $40,000. The Society operates without any form of funding from the government so hopes to recoup these costs through adoptions and donations. 

"I want to sincerely thank and congratulate all the staff, but particularly our Animal Care Staff for their dedication in following difficult processes and protocols in fighting this disease," said Kinch in an industry email. 

"Their commitment to the care and attention of the animals and their environment was instrumental in our successful control and management of the disease."


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