Abandoned chihuahuas puts a strain on SPCA’s tight resources

Five chihuahuas that were abandoned near a Saskatoon dumpster last week are shining a light on a tough situation at the SPCA.

Donations to the animal shelter have dropped significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and it’s putting a strain on resources, says the shelter’s communications coordinator, Jasmine Hanson.

“Their medical care is going to be incredibly taxing. We help 4,000 animals each year, many in much worse condition.”

“Not only are we cancelling all these fundraising events, a lot of people are not in a financial position to donate right now.”

The small canines were found outside the St. James apartment complex on 33rd Street last week. One of the dogs was badly injured with a suspected broken jaw and had to be euthanized.

Since a Facebook post about the incident on Friday, the shelter has received hundreds of adoption applications. Hanson said the remaining four dogs are doing well, but have a long road ahead before they can be sent to new homes.

Meanwhile, animal protection is looking into the incident.

“Whenever we have calls of animals being abandoned , one of the first things we do is try to locate where they came from. Locating an owner can really help us understand exactly how they came to be found and is crucial to our investigation,” said Hanson.

Hanson said the owner came forward shortly after their post and is cooperating fully with the shelter.

While she can’t comment on the investigation, she reminds pet owners they have options when they can no longer care for an animal.

“Saskatoon SPCA is a resource. No matter what your troubles may be. We are absolutely here to help you before it gets to this point. “