Pound Animals

The problem of stray animals is a serious concern in the Town of Whitecourt and surrounding areas. The veterinary clinic encourages everyone to have their pet spayed or neutered in order to prevent unwanted kittens and puppies. As well, neighbors are encouraged to communicate with each other if issues arise regarding pets.

Whitecourt Veterinary Clinic enjoys an excellent working relationship with the Town of Whitecourt. The Town of Whitecourt has established bylaws in an attempt to resolve any stray animal problems. Through a contractual agreement with the Town of Whitecourt, our veterinary clinic houses stray animals picked up by the Town of Whitecourt. Our team at the clinic, then check the animals for any type of identification including tattoos, microchips, tags, and collars. Through cooperative administrative efforts, the Town attempts to notify owners of the impoundment. Owners pay a fine at the Town of Whitecourt office, and show the receipt to the vet clinic to have their pet released. The animals are kept for three business days, and then at the end of three working days, the Town of Whitecourt transfers a signed euthanasia order. At this time, the clinic team may euthanize the impounded animal or keep the animal in the hopes of adopting the animal to a loving home. The veterinary clinic tries to place as many healthy cats and dogs in homes as possible but unfortunately there are simply not enough homes.

As of Dec.31, 2006 130 dogs came through the pound.  98 were retrieved by their owners and 16 were adopted out.  There were 184 cats of which 73 were retrieved, and 47 were adopted out.  We would like to thank all of the responsible pet owners who come and claim their pet and all of you who give a home, and a second chance, to a stray animal.

As well, the Woodlands County also employs a dog catcher to pick up stray dogs in country residential areas when necessary. The County requests that the veterinary clinic keep dogs for a period of ten days, and at that time, the clinic may again choose to euthanize or adopt the animal. (Woodlands County Animal (Dog) Control Bylaw)

It should be noted that Whitecourt Veterinary Clinic does NOT pick up stray animals nor do we employ any individual to do so for us. The Town of Whitecourt and Woodlands County employ the dogcatcher.  The veterinary clinic simply acts as the "hotel" or the "safe house" for strays legally picked up by the dogcatcher. The clinic is not legally allowed to accept animals into the pound.  They must come in through the dog catcher.  Any concerns regarding the actual pick up of the stray animals should be directed to the Town of Whitecourt office, 780-778-2273.

There are MANY unadoptable animals brought into the pound. "Unadoptable" animals are animals which, through no fault of their own, may be aggressive, wild, extremely old, sick or diseased. However, more often there are MANY adoptable animals that make wonderful pets for loving families.

If you are interested in adopting any animal you see in these photos, please watch to see if the pet is transferred over to the "ADOPTABLE PETS" link.

"Paws Up" to all of our responsible pet owners!

This black and white kitten was found at Rotary Park on July 15, 2008.

     Last updated: July 17, 2008.