Miramichi SPCA in trouble due to high turnover, low donations
Northern animal shelter houses 58 cats, 4 dogs, which are all vaccinated and fixed at the SPCA's expense
The Miramichi SPCA is appealing to the public for financial help and other donations to care for the 58 cats and four dogs in the northern animal shelter.
"The financial situation right now is pretty bad," said Miranda Frenette, the kennel assistant.
An upswing in adoption in recent months at first seemed positive, but has contributed to higher turnover of animals within the shelter and higher veterinarian costs.
The shelter and its employees can't keep up with demand, especially for cats.
"There's cats from everywhere. Strays, kittens, especially now that it's kitten season." said Frenette.
Closure 'definitely an option'
Current donations cover only the bare minimum of services, about a quarter of the shelter's regular operations.
Frenette said closing "is definitely an option if we don't get things back up and running."
Frenette also admits she worries about her job.
Jennifer Arseneault, the SPCA's manager, said she is also distressed by the situation and possible closure of Miramichi's SPCA.
"We're looking at six months or so from here, if nothing changes," she said.
In addition to monetary donations, the SPCA is asking for donations of food, blankets, and cat litter.
"We're trying different fundraisers like businesses or individuals sponsoring spay and neuter drives," said Arseneault.
"We're cutting back on small areas, where we can."