When Kristine O’Brien, the owner/operator of Paws Republic Centre for Pets in Martensville, was first notified about a situation taking place in a northern Saskatchewan community that was putting the lives of many dogs at risk, she knew something had to be done to help.
This story began with a text that quickly spiraled into something that no one could have seen coming. Upon receiving information that dogs were in jeopardy of facing a tragic fate, O’Brien sprang into action and rallied the troops. Paws Republic and From the Streetz Dog Rescue were both on board to do what they could as quickly as they could.
Calls were put out to the community that a rescue mission would be available to come get the animals on Tuesday, January 30th and the “Pop-Up Rescue Project” was born.
As rescuers made the long drive north to pick-up the dogs, organizers stayed behind and prepped a temporary space that was provided by Kabo Homes, where they could house the dogs and provide the appropriate care needed.
Over 100 dogs of various breeds, sizes and ages were brought in and quickly provided baths, food, vet care, exercise, as well as plenty of love and compassion.
According to organizers of the rescue, missions such as this can often take upwards of a month to plan; however, they managed to do it within 24 hours.
Throughout the past week, the beauty of humanity has shone brightly as word quickly spread. It didn’t take long for donations to begin piling in through the doors, volunteers to show up ready to help in any way possible, multiple veterinary clinics to offers their services, and so much more.
Within a week, between dogs being adopted, fostered, or sent to other rescues, less than ten dogs remain in the building; however, approximately 30 more dogs are expected to arrive on Wednesday, February 8th.
“I could never have imagined a more amazing outcome for this experience. Going into this, we didn’t really know how things were going to play out, but we knew we needed to do something to help give these dogs a chance at life,” O’Brien stated. “The support that we have received is nothing short of a miracle and there are no words that can accurately sum up how grateful we are to everyone that has stepped up to help.”
Currently, the greatest need is monetary donations, which will be used towards vet bills. Details on how you can contribute, as well as regular updates on the rescue mission can be found by visiting the ‘From the Streetz Rescue Foundation’ Facebook page. Donations can also be made directly to Erindale Animal Hospital and Corman Park Vet Services.
With so much going on the past week, O’Brien wanted to create a space where people could share their stories and provide information on the rescue, so the ‘Pop-Up Rescue Project’ Facebook page was created. People are encouraged to share their photos and stories on this page, so the positivity of this experience can be remembered.
“We couldn’t have done this without the people that have stepped up to help, whether it be through a donation, volunteering, washing laundry, bringing food, taking dogs to the vet or one of the countless other ways that we have seen people contribute. It is nothing short of amazing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” O’Brien added.
