Community answers SPCAs call

TRURO - Local business owners are answering a desperate plea from the Colchester SPCA.
An article that appeared last week in the Truro Daily News stated the SPCA was facing a severe shortage of kitten food and supplies. Since reading the story, Liam Vance, co-owner of Lotto Land at the Truro Mall, has decided to lead the community in a two-month drive to benefit the local shelter.
Vance is encouraging the public to drop off donations of kitten food, money or kitten supplies to the lotto booth. As the donations arrive, Vance will deliver them to the SPCA. In return, ballots for prizes will be given to supporters of the initiative for a chance to win six prizes.
"I've always had pets all my life and I've gotten my pets from shelters," said Vance. "I wasn't aware of the problems the shelter was having ... I want people to help them because animals can't take care of themselves."
Craig MacDonald, co-owner of Lotto Land, has impressive expectations.
"I'd like to get 1,000 kilograms of food within the two months," MacDonald said. "The SPCA has enough problems let alone needing to get extra food ... and people will know exactly where their donation is going."
Yvonne Higgins, SPCA president, is thrilled with the fundraising effort as well as other recent community donations.
"It's a feeling of relief," she said. "We're overworked and overpopulated so every donation is a huge help."
The six-year-old shelter is built for 40 cats but has a population of 91 felines now. The facility is also in the midst of fundraising to purchase cat cages. Three banks, each with about 12 cages, are still required. It costs at least $500 per cage.
For upcoming fundraisers, including a dog walk and 2009 calendar sale, call the shelter at 893-7968. Donations can also be dropped off at the SPCA on Industrial Avenue.

mchiasson@trurodaily.com