Dane Gibson
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Dec 15/99) - The excited barking echoes through the kennel as several dogs poke their wet noses through the chain link cage in the hopes of getting a little attention.

Christmas can be a sad time of the year at the Great Slave Animal Hospital. But the expectant look on the caged mutts' faces, as well as the contented purrs from the rows of cats calling these cages home, show they don't know that.

"Please adopt them because we can't afford to keep them," said veterinarian Tom Pisz.

"Unfortunately, during the holiday season, our kennels are full because we board dogs. We aren't a shelter but a private business so we're only supposed to keep strays for five days. That's all we're paid for by the city but sometimes we feed, care for, and house dogs for as long as five months."

As the kennel fills up with the pets from paying customers, Pisz has to make room.

"If you've been planning on having a dog or cat, now is a good time to come and see us," said Pisz.

The hospital offers free vaccinations and 20 per cent off the cost of spaying or neutering adopted pets. Also, they allow you to return them within five days if they don't work with your family's environment.

The NWT SPCA is aware of, and thankful for, the good doctor's compassion.

SPCA volunteer Janet Pacey said Yellowknife is in desperate need of a shelter but the non-profit organization doesn't have enough money to make it a reality.

In the meantime, to make the stay of those dogs and cats who are going to be in the pound over the holidays a little more comfortable, they are asking people to donate blankets for the pets to lie on.

"People are in the giving spirit during the holidays and we thought blankets would be a nice way to show the pound animals that they're loved," said Pacey.

"We ask people not to wash the blankets because the human scent calms the pets. They're domestic and it makes them feel like they're part of a home."

The SPCA also needs people to donate collars, leashes, bowls, pet food, and treats. Basically, anything that a person might have relating to pets.