Pet and Wildlife Rescue launches annual fundraiser amidst rising costs

With rising costs and a shelter that is regularly full, Pet and Wildlife Rescue in Chatham is looking to the community to ensure its cupboards aren’t bare this holiday season.

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Until Dec. 25, the organization is running its third-annual Under One Roof campaign, which aims to raise funds for day-to-day operations and replenish its emergency medical fund, while increasing awareness about the services available.

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Myriam Armstrong, operations manager, said they are seeing more abandoned and surrendered animals, with longer stays, along with a decrease in the number of people willing to adopt.

This, combined with increased costs for food and medical care, are putting an immense strain on the organization.

“Post-COVID, puppies have been the biggest issue. …It’s still a thing,” Armstrong said, noting that well-intentioned owners had to return to work and give up their animals.

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“And also cost of living for sure. The use of our (pet) food bank has ballooned in the last few months.”

Food cost alone at the shelter has risen on three occasions this year, Armstrong said, adding that some owners also are feeling the pinch, leading them to make tough decisions.

Approximately 100 more dogs, whether they are surrenders or strays, have come through the doors this year compared to last. Cat numbers also have increased.

“A lot of people can’t afford to feed them or take care of them,” Armstrong said. “We get a lot of dogs surrendered that have never received any vetting, which is more cost for us.”

The facility takes in approximately 3,000 animals a year. With an average operational monthly cost of $115,000, one of its biggest expenses is veterinary care at roughly $20,000 a month.

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Although PAW Rescue has the municipal contract to provide animal control services and bylaw enforcement, those funds don’t cover the full cost of veterinary care, nor animal care supplies, the organization said.

Jennifer Clements, fundraising volunteer, said the community has recognized the need during the years.

“We’ve appreciated all the community support that we get,” she said. “For this year, dollars are being stretched. We thank everyone. …Every dollar counts.”

Clements said there isn’t a fundraising goal, adding they’re simply grateful for whatever people can donate, especially given the time of year.

To support the campaign, visit http://www.pawr.org. Anyone interested in providing a loving home to an abandoned or surrendered pet can visit the website, or follow Pet and Wildlife Rescue on Facebook or Instagram.

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