Left behind in Fort McMurray, here’s what happens to pets

Wednesday, May 4, 2016, 2:30 PM - The raging wildfires across Fort McMurray have not only forced residents to flee from their homes, they’re threatening the animals that reside in the area as well.

For those who are forced to evacuate and leave their pets behind, Better Than Home Pet Boarding, in Sherwood Park is reopening their kennel for any displaced pets. They have some pasture for larger animals as well.

The Fort McMurray Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (FMSPCA), has also reached out to their partners in southern Alberta to assist with animal placement, animal friendly accommodations and supplies as the FMSPCA shelter and its staff have been evacuated.

The wildfires last summer in La Ronge, Saskatchewan, left many evacuees unable to take their pets with them as they fled their communities. In between scanning houses for ignition spots, firefighters and volunteers were making sure that pets left behind were alright.

Volunteers were looking for collars or tags, took pictures of pets and posted the images online. The Prince Albert SPCA also created a database for owners to help find their pets as they were sent to animal shelters.

If you still have animals in your home and you are not home, the FMSPCA is advising pet owners to contact Pulse at 780-743-7000 or RMWB by-law at 780-788-4200.

A devastating 80% of Beacon Hill homes have been destroyed so far by the uncontrolled wildfires.

SOURCE: Fort McMurray SPCA  | CBC News |  Wildfire Alberta | Better Than Home Pet Boarding