This week, the BC SPCA and Cowichan Tribes held a welcome ceremony to celebrate the opening of the brand-new Vancouver Island Animal Behaviour Centre in North Cowichan.
Though the centre isn’t open yet, it will be this fall, and the facility will offer an innovative space for specialized behavioural treatment.
The BC SPCA says the aim of this centre is to support multiple species in one dedicated space, including dogs, cats and small animals such as rabbits.
The organization is seeing a growing number of animals with behavioural issues entering their Community Animal Centres, and this centre will help their staff address these challenges.
One dog who will benefit from the new behaviour centre is Tiffany, who arrived at a local community animal centre underweight, fearful and nervous.
BC SPCA staff and veterinarians are working with Tiffany to help her overcome her fear and trust humans again.
The dog’s rehabilitation will take months, and include medical support, behavioural support, progress monitoring and appropriate adjustments.
With the new centre’s opening, the BC SPCA expects to shorten this recovery time with the dedicated space and team specializing in animal behaviour.
“From the initial design to the completed structure, the Vancouver Island Animal Behaviour Centre was built with intention, and with the needs of animals in mind every step of the way,” said Craig Daniell, chief executive officer of the BC SPCA.
“We have worked closely with the local and regional communities and partners to bring the vision of the Vancouver Island Animal Behaviour Centre to life; we are so excited for the official opening and to bring the first few animals into care at this centre.”
The BC SPCA’s welcome ceremony included the unveiling of artwork by Duncan-based artist Sam Casey.
Casey’s piece aims to honour the relationships and interconnectedness between people, animals and the environment.
The ceremony also included three traditional dances and blessings to the land were given by the Cowichan Tzinquaw Dance Group.
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