The Central Alberta Humane Society has had a very busy year, with over 60 litters of kittens alone being surrendered in 2017 so far.

Executive Director Tara Hellewell says they normally see more cats being surrendered than dogs, due to people allowing their cats to roam free instead of treating them like any other pet.

“Cats are a domesticated animal, they are not a wild animal, leaving them free to roam the streets is not a good idea. They can get hit by a car, they can get eaten by wildlife, and if they are not spayed or neutered then they are free to breed prolifically, which they do.”

The downturn in the economy and a continued lack of education when it comes to spaying and neutering pets has led to the extended kitten surrendering season at the Society.

Now, they are hoping to help those who may not be able to afford neutering costs with a new program.

Hellewell says thanks to a generous donation from a member of the community, they are hoping to launch a low income spay and neuter program, after gaining approval from the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association.

“We obviously spay and neuter all the animals that come into our care, but we are looking at opening a spay/neuter clinic for low- income families and individuals. So that’s going to help because then we know that cost can’t be the barrier for those individuals, and we will continue to educate kids in schools and adults as well out there in the community about the importance of spaying and neutering.”

They hope to have the program running early 2018.

They are also currently running a For the Love of Animals 50/50 cash prize lottery in order to raise the funds for the proper care of animals awaiting adoption. With many great prizes to be won, you can get more information and purchase tickets by visiting the Human Society’s’ website.