North Peace SPCA in need of donations after influx of animals from Fort Nelson wildfire evacuees

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The North Peace SPCA is in need of donations after taking in an influx of new animals following the evacuation of Fort Nelson. 

The North Peace SPCA’s branch manager, Jeanine Dovenshire, says the organization has been moving animals between its neighbouring centres to keep kennels free for people needing spaces for their pets. 

As of May 16th, SPCA currently has 22 dogs, 32 cats and many more in foster. 

“We received an increase in calls right before the fourth [Fort] Nelson evacuation, so we decided to ask the community for some assistance in donations,” said Dovenshire.

The shelter is looking for triple-A batteries, dog pee pads, blankets and towels, cat clay litter, toys, and dog treats. 

The shelter posted on social media last week asking for donations, saying it was running “very low on supplies.” The local SPCA received many donations from the community, which they expressed their gratitude for. 

“We’ve had such an amazing response from the community so far, and we thank them for their incredible action on this,” said Dovenshire.

“I wanted to give a huge thanks to the North Peace and surrounding communities for their donation support and love for animals. Together, we can make a difference. Thank you, everyone.” 

The shelter partly opened its new location in March and is still working on finishing kennels and finalizing an indoor gym for its dogs. All services are expected to be available at the new location at the end of the summer. 

Dovenshire is encouraging people to foster animals at the shelter that need homes or to volunteer at the shelter.

To make an appointment or for general inquiries, contact 250-785-7722 or northpeace@spca.bc.ca.

For animal control issues, call the City of Fort St John at 250-787-8150. To report suspected animal cruelty or neglect, please call 1-855-622-7722.