Dear Editor and Undercurrent readers,
As 2018 arrives, CAWES looks back at 2017 with gratitude and would like to wish a heartfelt thanks to our wonderful supporters. The year included highlights such as:
- our best year to date in terms of donations and fund-raising, including sales at the Christmas Craft Fair, municipal grants, personal and corporate donations, BIRD refundables, multiple auctions, two concerts, 50:50 draw and much more
- an on-island educational event (plus another one organized for late January 2018 on humane pest control - skunks, rats, raccoons, bats etc.)
- compilation of results of a full island animal survey in conjunction with IPS
- an informational campaign about the dangers to household pets and wildlife of rat poison
- assistance to reunite many lost pets with owners
- support for veterinary procedures for the companion animals of those in financial distress
- donations of food and supplies for animal companions
- assistance with wounded or distressed wildlife
- Christmas hampers, in conjunction with Missy Foundation, for 18 dogs and 20 cats (our largest number to date)
- the creation of an enclosed heated shelter for feral cats
- on-going support for 8 feral or abandoned cats that are not adoptable
- continued assistance to re-home surrendered or abandoned cats, dogs and other pets
- the continuation of the trap/spay/neuter/release program for Bowen’s feral cats
- continued assistance to the SPCA on matters of suspected animal cruelty
- continued assistance to the municipality when Bylaw officers are unavailable to deal with animal issues and provision of information on Bowen wildlife and domestic animal statistics
- continued close collaboration with the Missy Foundation, Dogwood Rescue, Vancouver Orphan Kitten Rescue Association (VOKRA), Pacific Animal Foundation (PAC) and several other rescue or welfare agencies
- We encourage anyone to contact CAWES with animal welfare issues and assure complete confidence when requested (please see our website for more details).
We are excited about several new initiatives planned for 2018. And finally the board of CAWES would like to wish you and your animal companions A Very Happy 2018 and the continued harmony between people, pets and wildlife on our beautiful island!
The Board of CAWES
