Alumni Rescue dog (left) from Megan’s Rescue Efforts Society. (Tavia Werner-Fisher, CMRU.ca)
One positive thing that came from the lockdowns is the continuing demand for animal adoption. Megan Steele the Founder and President of Megan’s Rescue Efforts Society based out of Calgary said that their cat and dog monthly adoption numbers doubled and less than 1% of animals were returned.
Steele says that the pandemic has been incredible in terms of rescue animals finding their “fur-ever” homes.
The process of bringing a new pet into your life, either from a breeder or through a rescue facility, can be truly extensive. Getting a new pet is a time of sheer excitement, but there is a lot to consider prior to committing to an animal.
Steele mentions that doing thorough research of the potential animal is crucial. She says making sure that the animal will fit your lifestyle will help avoid any unsuitable problems which could result in animal surrendering or rehoming. Her biggest advice to anyone considering adopting a rescue is to “try fostering first”. Fostering allows you to get to know the animal with no true long-term commitments and all costs of the fostered animal are covered by your rescue facility.
Megan’s Rescue Efforts Society spends a lot of their time working with the Stoney Nakoda community; helping supply families with affordable dog food, proper vet care, spay-neuter programs and ensuring safe animal rehoming.
Karlee and Max are owners who adopted pets during the start of the pandemic. The video sheds light on their personal adoption experience and how their furry friend has changed their lives for the better.
Animal Rescue Facilities in Calgary:
- Calgary Humane Society
- Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS)
- Wag-A-Muffins Animal Rescue
- Pawsitive Match Rescue Foundation
- Calgary Animal Rescue Society (CARS)
- PetSmart Adoption Organization
- MEOW Foundation
- Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF)
Personal Reflection:
This community project opened my eyes to how crucial animal rescue facilities are; the work these facilities do for animals is astonishing. So many people dedicate their time to volunteering for these organizations, in turn helping animals find good homes and receive the care they need. Having the opportunity to talk with the president and founder of Megan’s Rescue Efforts Society was extremely educational. It was heartwarming listening to someone be so passionate about helping animals. Because of this multimedia project I plan to do volunteer work with rescue organizations in the future
-Tavia
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