Kayleigh Coates has been working at Pawsitive Haven Animal Rescue for a year now and as she sits at the front desk, a cat nestled into her arm, nudging their nose into her cheek, reminding her of more snuggles, it’s easy to see why.
“I can't say no. I love them and it's so rewarding and just helping them and there is no way I was leaving.”
However, Pawsitive Haven has not been immune to the financial burdens of COVID-19. Events and fundraisers that would help shore up finances were cancelled time and again, and recent veterinary bills have put a massive strain on their finances. This coupled with an alarming pattern of pet owners surrendering their dogs to the rescue because many are going back to work, has meant that the rescue center is at capacity.
“It's been an ongoing struggle, just kind of getting by and getting by and then just before Christmas, we had another amputation surgery,” Coates said. “[Now] we have a dog that [has been] diagnosed with epilepsy, so she gets monthly medication.”
Within just the past week the rescue center has had to say no to at least five owners wanting to bring their dogs to the center.
“Everyone's going back to work and we're getting so many calls for surrenders and not only that, but our adoptions are at a complete standstill. I've had the same group for a few months now. I've had two dogs that have been here since September.”
Coates said it is extremely frustrating to hear people saying that going to back work means they can’t keep a dog, however, she also recognizes that surrender to a rescue center is better than a dog being left out on the street.
“On the good side, I bond with every single one of these dogs, but when we're in such a financial crisis like we are now, and I'm turning down dogs left and right; it kills me. I go home, and I cry because I can't help them and that's why I'm here.”
In a recent social media post, the center has reached out to the public for help.
“Right now, things are super tight, we need time to recoup some funds before we can take on any more animals. This breaks our hearts as we know there are so many animals out there at this time who really need us! We have space, and time.... just not the funds If you have the means please donate to this amazing cause!”
Pawsitive Haven Animal Rescue currently has nine dogs in their facility, and each one has a wagging tail, pleading eyes for belly rubs and treats, and a need for a furever home.
Milo is a ball of energy that is infectious. The 8-month pup’s grin and joyful yipping and barking will put anyone in a good mood. Milo is the type of dog that will go for an hour-long hike, grab a snack and be ready for yet another hike.
If Milo is the energizer doggo, then his counterpart, Fancy, a 3-year-old female, is the definition of a belly rub queen. Fancy knows the important things in life; hugging, cuddling, belly rubbing, and more cuddling. Fancy is currently spoken for at the moment, as a family has put down a deposit on her.
And then there’s Kat, an older female, around 6-years old, who knows that couch lounging is for the very best and most experienced. A gentle soul with a big, cold nose and wonderfully loving eyes, she is the matriarch here.
Charlie is a cool girl. The one and half-year-old female is playful and rambunctious and has a sassy heir to her.
Last but not least, there is a 4-year-old Ursa. While Ursa has indeed been diagnosed with epilepsy, her big eyes tell a story of a dog who needs nothing but love, kindness, and patience. She may be a little unsure of her surroundings, but one can’t help but fall in love with her; an old soul and a soothing presence; a healing presence that seems to understand the importance of savouring time.
It’s hard not to want to throw one’s arms around each and every dog at Pawsitive Haven Animal Rescue and want to shower them with kisses; cuddles and love.
"Just spread the word. I have such an amazing group of dogs right now. Like they're all perfect. They each had their own little quirks but I've never had such a great group and they've been here so long and they just need homes.”
Humorist Josh Billings famously said, "A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” This is particularly true of the pups at Pawsitive Haven Animal Rescue.
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