There is likely not an organization more ingrained in the Cochrane community than the Cochrane and Area Humane Society (CAHS).
Janaia Hutzal, CAHS communications coordinator, said she is amazed by the support the community gives the society.
Whether it’s the army of nearly 550 volunteers or the business community that is always helping out with gifts in-kind or financial assistance, Hutzal said the society is extremely grateful.
This year, the community stepped up to laud CAHS by naming it the Best Charitable Organization as part of the Cochrane Eagle’s annual Best of Cochrane Readers’ Choice Awards.
“It’s a huge honour and it shows that (CAHS) is such a huge part of the community,” said Hutzal of the society, which is entering its 21st year.
Hutzal attributes the society’s success to the fact it is so much more than just a rescue shelter.
With an animal hospital, training centre and foster program, the society endeavours to do more than adopt animals out, it strives to ensure its rescues are both healthy and supported.
“We want to make sure the adoptions are successful,” said Hutzal. “There are just so many wonderful stories.”
The high profile CAHS holds in the community is not just good for the rescues, said Hutzal, it’s also good for the community.
“It changes lives,” she said, adding Cochrane is an incredibly animal friendly community, pointing to the two off-leash dog parks as evidence.
CAHS has regular events and training activities available, which can be found online at https://www.cochranehumane.ca/.
The society is also busy planning for its November Gala, which this year will focus on the theme of animals and athletes. The emcee of the event with be retired Calgary Stampeder Rob Cote.
