Nunavut group looks for homes for unwanted pets

An animal welfare group in Nunavut is looking for homes and money to help care for unwanted pets.

This is the third time the Iqaluit Humane Society has turned to social media asking for financial support.

Caring for unwanted animals is expensive, with the total medical bills for all animals reaching upwards of $25,000.

Janelle Kennedy, president of the humane society, says money is great, but she's just as happy when a pet is adopted.

"What's wonderful is that some people have really committed to being a foster home," she said. "Quite often our foster homes turn into homes that want to adopt the animal."

Unleashed dogs are a common site in Iqaluit, which can become a danger for the public.

Chief Kevin Sloboda, a municipal enforcement officer in the city, says owners who let their dogs run free face fines — or worse.

"Either we pick it up, or it gets hit by a car, or a dog attack, or it bites someone," Sloboda said.

Kennedy says even when a dog is taken in, it can take some time before it's ready for a home.

Dozer, an abandoned dog in the city, shrinks back from people even while in his kennel.

Kennedy says the society wants to hopefully get rid of that shyness, so he can settle in with new owners.

She's hoping she and her fellow volunteers at the humane society are making a difference.