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Animal control officer begins work with NAR

Jul 10, 2018 | 2:00 PM

Northern Animal Rescue (NAR) will be able to create a larger impact in the tri-communities after the hiring of the non-profit’s first employee.

Morgan Bell began working as the organization’s animal control officer Monday after the board was able to secure a $30,000 six-month contract with the Town of La Ronge, which could be renewed if the arrangement goes smoothly. Chairperson Genevieve Candelora said it’s an exciting time for NAR, as members hope the partnership with the town is one of several leading into the future.

“She’ll be responsible for animal control in the municipality of La Ronge,” Candelora said. “She’ll be doing some patrolling, she’ll be picking up loose or strays roaming in La Ronge and bringing them to our facility for impoundment. She’ll be working with the public and alongside the bylaw officer.”

In addition to La Ronge-specific duties, Bell will also be handling NAR related responsibilities like assisting volunteers with other animals that have either been surrendered by Air Ronge, the Lac La Ronge Indian Band or by individuals. As a new role, Candelora noted Bell will work with NAR members to draft policies and procedures.

Bell, who moved to La Ronge about a year ago, said she applied for the position because of her lifelong passion for helping animals. She volunteered with NAR before she was hired, and she also spent time assisting the Meadow Lake and District Humane Society and working for a veterinarian clinic. Bell added she’s been rescuing animals since she was a child.

“I grew up in northern Saskatchewan on the westside, and I’ve rescued and rehomed countless dogs, and gotten them out of the communities and reserves,” she said.

It was also a busy first day for Bell, who assisted with the transfer of 28 dogs and pups to a rescue centre in Saskatoon. Aside from the NAR animals who were in foster homes, several dogs from Sucker River were among those who went south.

Meanwhile, NAR is also getting closer to its $10,000 fundraising goal to purchase a van. Candelora said nearly $8,000 has been raised so far through a 50/50 lottery and other fundraisers, adding Kustiak Trucking Ltd. will match the $10,000 once raised, so NAR will have $20,000 to purchase a vehicle.

“We should be able to get a vehicle for NAR activities and it will really help Morgan in the work she’s going to be doing,” she said.

 

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno