Animals need help over the holidays, too

By Toyin Obatusin - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on December 31, 2024.

Herald photo by Toyin Obatusin Staff members Barb Grodzicky and Lauren Koshman hold a pair of furry friends at the the Lethbridge Humane Society.

Humans aren’t the only beings who need a helping hand – or paw – over the holidays.

Many animals can use some assistance as well to be happy.

Barb Grodzicky, Manager of the Lethbridge and District Humane Society, is heavily involved with the animal care of the centre.

They receive many calls daily from pet owners who no longer want their pets. Most community shelters are currently over capacity and are lacking resources to nurse these animals to a level of quality of life wherein potential adopters would consider them as an option.

The society, located on 2405 41 St N, is not only looking for monetary donations, but has also created a wish list that will help with daily house chores and with the feeding of the animals.

Things like cleaning supplies, toys and treats, cat food and dog food items are mostly what all donations go directly to keeping this safe haven open and clean. Adoption fees help cover some costs, but not all.

The society is over-capacity with 35 dogs and between 130-140 cats because cats are deemed as more disposable.

“Because it’s easy to put a cat out on the street and move away,” said Grodzicky, “People mostly leave these feline pets behind and move on.”

The Lethbridge Humane Society isn’t the only shelter for animals in the City of Lethbridge that is at capacity, according to Grodzicky.

Volunteers are also in need at the Humane Society. It’s difficult to get volunteers as hours required by locations aren’t always suitable for those inquiring of positions.

Lauren Koshman of the society said “we’re doing whatever, whenever, these animals need.”