Be A Voice For Pets At Risk!

More Information Coming Soon!

The welfare of animals is everyone's responsibility! Please help our furry friends who cannot speak for themselves by reporting abuse and neglect to the appropriate authorities.

PET Projects cares deeply for animals that have been victims of abuse or neglect. But while we are happy to offer support and resources (such as assistance with vet care costs, providing emergency food, refurbishing dog houses to make them more humane, help rehoming animals, and referrals to other groups offering more specialized services) to any pet owner willing to take them, we do not have the legal right to intervene without the pet owner's express permission. If the owner would be open to our help, please refer them to us and we will do all we can.

If you are concerned about an animal that might be a victim of abuse, we encourage you to call the provincial SPCA's toll free Cruelty Line (1-888-703-7722). While you are not able to leave an anonymous tip, your name will be kept confidential from the abuser. Be aware that the SPCA only has 3 cruelty officers for the entire province, so it make take time for them to respond. If you feel the situation is critical, after you've made the report to the SPCA you should also call the RCMP and request immediate intervention for the sake of the animal.

Education is Key --- Let us help! A representative from PET Projects would love to speak to groups of any age on topics like: how to choose the right pet for you; the importance of spaying and neutering; how to raise a healthy, happy pet; the adoption option; and what to do if you spot abuse. If you are a part of a school or organization that would be open to hosting a humane education workshop, please let us know!

 

Resource Index

Help for Rescuers: If you have recently rescued a dog or cat that is in need of a forever-home, we can help!

Help for Pet Owners: Learn the ins and outs of responsible pet ownership, including how to choose the right foods, the facts about spaying and neutering, teaching safe pet interaction to children, and much more! From here you can also find out how to access social services such as emergency veterinary care, spay/neuter subsidy, and emergency pet food and supplies.

Lost and Found: Read or post community notices about lost and found pets, and learn steps to take to help reunite pets and their owners!

Advocacy: Learn how to respond to animal abuse and neglect, learn what you can do to bring about change in the laws that protect pets, and find links about animal issues.

Cat Colonies: Learn about the consequences and conditions of dumped cats in Shelburne County, report existing cat colonies, and find out what you can do to help!

Resource Centre - Main: Helpful links and local contacts.


 
 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

some sections adapted from the NOVA SCOTIA SPCA website



Q. Is it against the law to leave a dog (or other animal) outside all winter long?

A. According to the Nova Scotia Animal Cruelty Prevention Act, the owner or caretaker of an animal must provide it with proper shelter and protection from the weather. Therefore, a dog or other animal may remain outdoors provided it is in good health and weight (for its breed), has access to an appropriate shelter, and is not of an age or breed where temperatures could be potentially dangerous (very young or old animal). Ideally all domestic animals should be allowed access to the inside, especially during temperature extremes.

Q. My neighbor recently moved away and left two cats behind. Is that illegal?

A. Yes. Whether as owner or custodian, any such person who willfully abandons an animal is in violation of Nova Scotia cruelty laws.

Q. I know of someone who isn't caring for their pet properly. Can you come and take it?

A. PET Projects is not legally able to intervene without the owner's consent or the permission and partnership of local law enforcement. An NSSCPA Cruelty officer can take the animal into custody if:
   a. they obtain a surrender from the owner
   b. they obtain a warrant from the court authorizing the removal of the animal
   c. they are unable to locate the owner or caregiver OR
   d. they deem the situation to be an emergency

Q. Who do I call about stray dogs?

A. You should call your municipal Animal Control agency (For Shelburne: 875-1496).

Q. What about stray cats?

A. If you find a stray cat in Shelburne County, visit our online resource centre for rescuers to find out how PET Projects can partner with you to help the cat find a new home or be reunited with its owner. However, overall this is a big issue that requires the involvement of the municipality in order to make a real difference. If YOU are concerned about stray and feral cats in your area, please write to your local councillor to tell them you expect your local government to intervene.