WESTCOAST NEWS
DELTA Animal hospital treats, seeks new homes for pets left homeless after Hurricane Katrina

Dave Willis
Delta Optimist

Saturday, November 19, 2005

DELTA - Between 15 and 20 animals that escaped the wrath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans have come to the Tsawwassen Animal Hospital, and staff there hope community members can provide foster care or even adopt the pets.

Tsawwassen Animal Hospital veterinary assistant Nicole Loftus and Dr. Kevin Harris from the Trenant Park Pet Clinic in Ladner spent two weeks in Slidell, Louisiana (about 20 minutes north of New Orleans) caring for animals at a temporary rescue shelter.

While they brought a dog and a cat back, more homeless pets have now arrived in South Delta.

Although a couple of homes have already been lined up and the Trenant Park clinic will also help with accommodations, a lack of space makes housing the animals difficult, said Julie Poitras, also with the Tsawwassen Animal Hospital.

Most of the animals are dogs of mixed breed, including shepherd, Lab, spaniel and hound crosses.

Anyone wanting to provide foster care or adopt a pet can call Tsawwassen Animal Hospital at 604-943-9385.
© The Vancouver Sun 2005