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East Kootenay SPCA named BC Branch of the Year

Local facility honoured at annual BC SPCA Awards Ceremony
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Brenna Baker

For the Townsman

The BC SPCA's East Kootenay Branch in Cranbrook was honoured as Branch of the Year at the BC SPCA's 120th Annual General Meeting in Richmond on May 2.

"Since taking over 18 months ago, manager Brenna Baker has led the branch in a transformation that is nothing short of remarkable," says Lorie Chortyk, general manager of community relations for the BC SPCA.

"The dynamic team of staff and volunteers has worked tirelessly to increase public awareness and support for the branch through media and community events; they've increased opportunities for youth education, including enhanced summer camps; and they have successfully secured funding to complete shelter renovations to improve the health and welfare of animals in their care."

Chortyk notes that in 2014, Brenna and her team managed to transfer an astounding 111 cats and kittens to areas of the province where they would have a better chance of adoption.

"While the branch used to have one of the lowest live release rates in the province due to massive pet overpopulation in the region, the East Kootenay branch now boasts a 94 per cent live release rate — a truly incredible achievement."

Chortyk says the East Kootenay staff and volunteers go above and beyond in everything they do, which is reflected in the amazing results seen at the branch.

"They truly deserve to be honoured as our 2015 BC SPCA Branch of the year."