On Saturday, October 27th the Fort McMurray SPCA (FMSPCA) hosted its 3rd Annual Masquerade Ball Midnight in Gotham. Proceeds from the annual event support capital projects to improve the lives of the animals in the care of the region’s only animal shelter.
2018 marks a special year for the FMSPCA – the 40th Anniversary of opening their doors to help homeless, abandoned and abused animals.
“When we opened in 1978 the population of Fort McMurray was estimated at under 20,000 people,” said Arianna Johnson FMSPCA executive director. “Four decades later, more than 25,000 animals in need have found a second chance with us because of the ongoing support of our community.”
The formal evening welcomed 450 guests and featured special presentations to recognize outstanding individuals and companies who have provided long term exceptional support to the organization. Recipients were presented with a keepsake vintage book to commemorate their contributions to the FMSPCA and animals in their care.
“In 2016 the event raised funding to replace the in-shelter clinic x-ray machine which we have been able to use over 250 times to help diagnose animals in need of medical intervention. In 2017, we raised funds to rebuild our dog runs that were in critical disrepair. Those dog runs are closing in on construction completion,” said Johnson. “This year our focus is on a long held dream, to provide animals with essential enrichment opportunities until they get their second chance at a forever home.”
In order to become a progressive safe haven for homeless animals, the FMSPCA is taking an essential step in refurbishing an area of the shelter property to increase enrichment opportunities and increase the ability for community volunteers and potential adopters to engage in important training that builds lasting adoptive relationships.
“This dynamic area will benefit both animals in our care and the community. Shelter dogs will have a new year-round space to work on developing new skills, agility, walking, and more,” said Johnson. “We intend to build feline enrichment into the cat room itself with elevated spaces, textured spiral slides and perches which will allow them opportunities to express natural behaviours in appropriate ways.”
Johnson estimates that the entire project will need $100,000 of funding to complete. Donations of materials and labour are also welcomed.
“The FMSPCA is truly a shelter the community has built,” said Johnson. “We are off to a great start for our project funding and encourage anyone interested in getting involved to visit our website at www.fmspca .ca under Ways to Help Us and learn more about our enrichment centre.”

To watch our video to learn more click here: https://fmspca.ca/enrichment-centre-campaign/

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Media Contact:
Arianna Johnson, executive director
Fort McMurray SPCA
Email: ed@fortmcmurrayspca.ca Phone: 780-743-8997 ext 5