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With Summer being the busy season of stray animals coming into the Winnipeg Humane Society, the Investigations and Emergency Response department has noticed an alarming increase in animals being improperly transported, especially cats/ kittens over the last few months. The I/ER department would like to go over the proper way to transport animals, in order to ensure the safety of both the animal and our staff.

If you are transporting a cat/ kitten, using a carrier or kennel specifically designed for animals is the best way to transport the animal. However, we understand that not everyone has access to a cat carrier; a cardboard box with air holes would work, or even a laundry hamper with a blanket over top. The cat should have enough room to turn around comfortably and there must be a way for fresh air to reach the cat. Please remember that an animal should be transported as quickly as possible to reduce stress.

The following is a list of how not to transport a cat:

– A Rubbermaid container with the lid on
– A bucket with the lid on
– A plastic bag
– A backpack or a suit case
– A burlap sack
– In an enclosed trunk of a vehicle or in the back of an open truck box
– Loose in the vehicle as the animal may try to hide or may become fractious, it can pose a danger  to both the animal and the driver

Transporting Cats In a Trap:
– Do not trap/transport in a live trap not designed for cats (i.e. rodent trap)
– Ensure the cat has had access to water
– Cover the trap with a light towel to help reduce stress while traveling
– Do not transport in an enclosed trunk of a vehicle or in the back of an open truck box
– Cats must be transported immediately upon being trapped or must be released

When these animals are transported inappropriately, it causes stress to both the animal and to our staff, increases the risk of bites, can cause the animal to physically injure themselves and unfortunately, in worst case scenarios, has resulted in the death of an animal. This is something that can easily be avoided!

Keep in mind that a roaming cat is not necessarily a lost cat; sometimes when these cats are removed, it makes it harder for WHS to reunite them with their owner. Please refer to our website for Community Cat information: www.winnipeghumanesociety.ca/animal-issues/cats/community-cats/

Please be patient with us! The WHS Intake department is incredibly busy at this time of year and the shelter is often overloaded with animals.  The Intake department will appropriately triage the calls they receive so allow them the chance to return your message. Non-injured stray animals require an appointment to come into the shelter – by making this appointment, you’re allowing us to ensure that we have the space and resources needed to take in this animal! For more information, refer to our website: www.winnipeghumanesociety.ca/animal-issues/surrender-a-stray/

For Animal Emergencies within the City of Winnipeg call 204-982-2020
To report an Animal Welfare Concern within the City of Winnipeg call 204-982-2028
To reach our Intake Department call, 204-982-2021 option #5

To report an Animal Welfare Concern outside of Winnipeg call the Animal Care Line at 204-945-8000 or toll free 1-888-945-8001
To report Winnipeg Bylaw concerns (dogs running at large, barking complaints) contact 311