Raining Cats & Dogs

(Page 4)

By Todd Curran

Seeing a need for the rescue and care of abused domestic animals in the area, Kim Hessel founded the Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue Foundation, which is currently the only rescue organization covering the area south of Okotoks to Claresholm, Vulcan west to Longview and some areas beyond.
The no kill facility provides shelter, care and nourishment to abandoned, abused and homeless domestic animals in the area through veterinary treatment and tattoo identification. After nursing the animals back to physical and social health, the goal is to source new homes for them through the adoption program. “We really put the effort in to get the animals into good shape for adoption,” Kim says. “We train the dogs on leash-work and manners and eventually integrate poorly socialized animals back in with the boarding animals.” This social program is so effective, I can't discern the difference between formerly abused animals and the ones raised in good homes. They're all happy and healthy.
“We have some great volunteers that help us create a healthy environment for us and the animals,” says Kim. “But, we can always use more help.” Kim has developed supportive relationships with local bylaw, the City of Calgary, the S.P.C.A. and a variety of local vets and pet stores, but can only accommodate as many animals as she has room for.
“Cats are the bigger rescue issue,” says Kim. “They multiply so quickly and many people don't account for the expense of spaying or neutering their cats. It's not their fault they're here. It's ours. We have the choice to spay and neuter.” Along with the identification and treatment of any health issues, all of Heaven Can Wait's animals are spayed or neutered upon arrival in an effort to prevent these overpopulation issues.
When it comes to the adoption process, “We try to keep it simple,” Kim says. “We check out the residence and lifestyle of potential owners to try and find a good match. They're invited out here to spend some time with the animals and see how they interact. I always encourage people to look at rescue organizations first because I also work with other animal organizations to bring in animals that would otherwise be euthanized. Adopting a pet from a rescue facility makes room for another one to come in.”
As a big proponent for animal rescue, Andrew Simon Salon owner Colin McConnell is raising funds for Heaven Can Wait throughout November, donating $5 from every haircut and $50 from every full head of extensions. How's that for a purrfect marriage of look good, feel good?
Thanks to Heaven Can Wait, the cat will mew and the dog will have his day. To show your support through boarding services, volunteering or adopting an animal call 403-601-2520 or visit www.heavencanwait.ca.