Cape Breton Shelter

History

The Cape Breton Animal Shelter was formed over 35 years ago. Mary Keshen, formalized the idea by placing an ad in the Cape Breton Post inviting anyone interested to meet.

The first meeting turned out approximately 40 people who were determined to get the arduous task underway.

After the groundwork had been laid, the group now needed a means to construct a fully operational animal shelter, thus fundraising efforts began. Everything from bake sales to tag days to memberships were undertaken, but these efforts fell short as shelter costs were escalating.

The realization that the shelter would never be opened if it depended solely on the initial fundraising ideas spawned a new effort. Phyllis Jones planned and orchestrated a door to door fundraising drive that consisted of the entire industrial area. She actually did this twice! In all she raised over $30,000 and we will be forever grateful.

After a lengthy search for a suitable location, the group found a parcel of land off East Broadway that was up for tax sale. The 2 1/2 acres available was a good fit. It was the desired size, price and far enough away that it would not bother any residents with any undue animal noise.

As construction of the shelter commenced in November 1977 the Society hammered out their Constitution and its By-Laws.

On June 12, 1978 the Cape Breton Animal Shelter opened its doors for business. Its paid staff consisted of the Manager as well as an Animal Inspector. All others were volunteers. Later that year, the shelter was able to hire two kennel workers whose wages were subsidized by a government program.

In 1979, after being approached by the County of Cape Breton, we took over the duty of animal control. In 1985 the Cape Breton Regional Municipality amalgamated and the Cape Breton Animal Shelter now does animal control for the entire industrial Cape Breton.

Over the years we developed education programs and recently opened up the first Animal Veterinary Hospital which in addition to providing our animals with all their veterinary needs also allows us to work with local rescue groups and low income families ensuring affordable spay & neuter options for those most in need.

Our story reads like a miracle or a fairy tale which was due to many hours and dedication of volunteers, board members, auxiliary and staff to continue to help those who cannot help themselves.

Adoption Fees

Adopting is a very rewarding experience. You will be giving a homeless animal a second chance in life and providing it with a safe, loving family.

Cats or Kittens Adoption Fee $300 for cats | $425 for kittens

Dogs or Puppies Adoption Fee  $400 for dogs | $700 for puppies

Unconditional love – priceless

What’s Included

Your new best friends comes to you:

• Spayed or Neutered sponsored by PetSmart Charities® of Canada (including kittens and puppies)
• With core vaccines to time of adoption
• Examined by a Veterinarian
• Treated for Fleas/Parasites
• Tested for Feline Leukemia (cats)
• With a free eight-week trial of Nova Scotia SPCA Pet Health Insurance
• Microchipped

Wish List

We go through many supplies to show homeless pets the love and care they deserve.

Check out our wish list here for the items we are most often in need of. We also have an online wish list here where you can add items to your cart and send a surprise gift directly to our shelter.

Another amazing way to help is to donate to fill our top wish list items. We can buy in bulk and often save with a charity rate!