Safe Haven Stray Cats
Cats currently on stray hold at the Safe Haven
What happens when the Safe Haven receives a stray cat?
All cats that come into the shelter undergo an intake exam and receive intake treatments (parasite control and vaccines). If it is determined that a stray cat needs urgent veterinary care, we ensure the cat receives care immediately.
The cats are checked for permanent ID, and we attempt to contact the owners associated with the permanent ID. The owner (or a confirmed person acting on their behalf) then has 4 days to pick up their cat before the cat is considered abandoned and made available for adoption.
All strays are posted to our website and possibly social media as strays, with the location they were found, for the duration of the required stray hold.
After the 4-calendar-day stray hold, the cats are evaluated, and the Chilliwack Safe Haven will use its best judgement in placing the cats. This may include transferring the cats to another rescue for adoption.
What happens if the cat is in critical distress?
If a veterinarian determines that an animal is in critical distress, they have the authority to humanely end the animal’s suffering.
Critical distress refers to situations where an animal is suffering so severely that:
- Immediate veterinary treatment wouldn’t be enough to save the animal’s life, or
- Trying to prolong the animal’s life would cause unnecessary pain and suffering.
If your cat has been brought to the shelter as a stray, please email us right away.
Our stray hold is 4 calendar days.
The shelter is by appointment only, and you will need an appointment to redeem (claim) your cat.
What you will need to redeem (claim) your cat:
- Proof of ownership, which can include:
- Adoption or purchase paperwork
- Vet records with both the cat’s and owner’s information
- Government-issued picture ID with a current address. If your address is not current, please provide paperwork with proof of current address.
- A secure carrier in which to bring your cat home. We will not release a cat without a secure carrier for travel.
Is there a fee to redeem my cat?
Yes, the Safe Haven will ask you to cover all costs associated with the care of your cat while in custody.
My cat is listed as adoptable on your website. What should I do?
Please contact us via email.
