In February 2022, SaskSPCA's Laura Zmud and PATHS' Crystal Giesbrecht partnered to launch the Saskatchewan Co-Sheltering Network (SCN)!
This network is a group of individuals consisting of IPV shelter staff and support staff that are either
1) IPV pet-friendly shelters;
2) in the process of becoming pet-friendly; or
3) a support organization that wants to learn and assist with pet-friendly sheltering.
The goal of the SCN is to share information, create a support network, discuss challenges and successes, and assist IPV shelters in becoming pet friendly. The network meets once every two months and held its first meeting in February 2022. Topics covered in the first meeting included reviewing safekeeping programs in Saskatchewan, types of co-sheltering options as outlined in the Viability Report, and network members experience with informally housing pets in their shelters.
Laura and Crystal are pleased to report that the new network has members from 8 different Saskatchewan organizations registered. If you would like more information about this initiative, contact laura@saskspca.ca
