St. Paul Animal Shelter Remains Homeless

Unable to take in animals without a proper facility

The St Paul Animal Shelter has been operating out of the downtown Community Futures building since their facility was condemned earlier this year. Charlene Whiskeyjack with the shelter says while they are able to handle basic day-to-day operations out of the space, they are unable to take in any animals.

“We have an agreement with J&N Kennels, if a dog is found in town and is approved by a peace officer it will be held in Lafond,” this is a very temporary situation, says Whiskeyjack, “if they’re not claimed within three days, then they are transferred to another no-kill animal shelter.” The organization attempts to find a shelter in the local area; however they’re not always successful and have to transfer the animal to Edmonton. The organization does not currently have any agreements with neighbouring town’s shelters.

“Cats are very difficult,” Whiskeyjack explains they are not able to shelter felines anywhere. “Right now, it’s by foster care. If we do take in any cats, they get fostered until they are able to go up for adoption.”

The organization has applied for some matching grants, but it’ll still be a little while until they receive word on them. “We won’t hear back [on our grants] until the end of December or early January,” Whiskeyjack explains that even with approve they will need to match the grant to use the money.

There have been ongoing fundraising efforts by community members, says Whiskeyjack, “we have something going on every month since we’ve had to be evacuated. I’ve seen a lot of people donating towards our new building.” Whiskeyjack says they shelter is incredibly grateful for any and all donations people have made. The animal shelter is not Government funded, it operates on donations, you may also donate through the shelter’s online portal at stpaulanimalshelter.org

“If people want to organize a fundraiser they can contact me,” community driven fundraisers are a great way to help, says Whiskeyjack. You may contact her at the shelter 780-645-2262. The shelter was taking in over 200 animals per year, prior to the facility closing.

One fundraiser that is happening this Saturday is a benefit concert featuring, Blades of Steel. The event will be held at Area 51. Tickets are available online.