Laurier helping animals in need through new community partnership

Dec. 8, 2020

A new university-community partnership is getting two paws up.  

Wilfrid Laurier University, the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth and the Brant County SPCA are partnering to connect animals in need of foster homes with Laurier students, faculty and staff.  

Fostering an animal is a short-term commitment that enriches the lives of both the animal and its caretaker. It prepares the animal for its forever home while increasing its chances of being adopted. Dogs, cats, reptiles and small animals are currently in need of foster homes. All costs associated with fostering an animal are covered by the associated organizations.

"Laurier's partnership with the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth and the Brant County SPCA provides an opportunity for our students, faculty and staff to making meaningful contributions to the community by helping animals in need," says Carleen Carroll, assistant vice-president: External Relations at Laurier. "Fostering an animal is rewarding and provides companionship without a long-term commitment. It's a win-win experience."

Partnering with Laurier allows both organizations to expand the reach of their foster programs.

“This year, more than ever before, the need for collaboration is front and centre,” says Nadine Dwinnell, director of animal care at the Brant County SPCA. “Through partnerships, we can save more animal lives and enrich the lives of foster parents through animal companionship.”

Fostering provides companionship and contributes to improved wellbeing for caretakers. Amid the ongoing pandemic, caring for an animal in need can also reduce feelings of isolation.

“The animals need us just as much as we need them,” says Kathrin Delutis, executive director at the Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth Humane Society. “Caring for animals feels extremely rewarding and helps with mental health.” 

Interested fosters can complete the online application form available from the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth and Brant County SPCA for the type of animal they wish to foster – dog, cat, small animal or reptile. Applicants will also need to submit two character references, a letter from their landlord (if applicable), and the vaccination records of any other pet living in the home. More information on foster applicant requirements can be found in the application outline. 

The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth and the Brant County SPCA will review applications, contact applicants for an interview and check references. Once accepted into the foster program, applicants will receive further information about training, onboarding and orientation.