Only months ago, we congratulated Edmonton on their outstanding work to protect animals by investing in city-wide wildlife crossings, something few municipalities have done on a large scale. They’re again turning heads by offering funds to a wildlife group in need.
The Wildlife Rehabilitation Society of Edmonton (WRSE) was in the news this week after appealing to the province and public for financial assistance. The rehabilitation centre – the only one in the Edmonton area – was unsure if they’d make it through October without financial assistance, let alone be able to plan into the future.
The province was able to find two grants of $50,000, conditionally, which will help the WRSE as well. But the attitude of at least one city councillor in Edmonton should give all wildlife lovers in the area a reason to feel hope for the future.
“The Wildlife Rehabilitation Society, we recognize plays a pretty important role in our city and in conjunction with our own Animal Control folks,” Councillor Michael Walters told Global News. “As the city grows, and we’re encroaching more and more on natural areas, the need for rehabilitation, saving the lives of animals grows.In this economic climate, they’ve dealt with some donations issues, so I think it’s important for us to step up.”
According to the WRSE’s executive director, demand for services went up 20 per cent in the past three years. Approximately 1,900 small mammals and migratory birds were treated by its six full-time and three part-time staff, as well as volunteers.
The Fur-Bearers are proud supporters of wildlife rehabilitators – a service that we believe deserves provincial funding and greater supports right across the country. Please, contact your local wildlife rehabilitator and find out how you can make a difference in the lives of your neighbourhood animals today.
Work like our growing Living With Wildlife campaign is only possible with the support of monthly donors. Please consider become a monthly donor – for as little as $5 a month – and help us create a Canada that is truly fur-free.
