The local branch of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) has purchased a new vehicle to truck animals around.

“Our other vehicle was nine years old,” explained Tracy McElman, OSPCA Renfrew County branch manager. “It was costing more in repairs than a new one.”

The branch purchased the new vehicle with the comfort of the animals in mind, as they are ferried between local vet clinics and the local branch located on Paquette Road in Petawawa. Plus, the safety of staff members also played a part in the decision to replace the agency’s 2003 Ford Ranger.

The new vehicle also promotes the agency’s Meet Your Match program.

“We really wanted to highlight the Meet Your Match program,” said Ms. McElman. “To lead people up here to meet the animals and ask about the program.”

The program has potential pet owners take a quick quiz to determine what type of canine or feline would suit their home.

“The quick survey gives them a colour,” explains Ms. McElman. The staff at the branch will match the family with a canine or feline that has the same colour.

“Our goal is to promote animal adoptions,” said Ms. Elman, to find orphaned animals forever homes.

Over the last few weeks the branch has been inundated with animals being surrendered due to their owners moving and mother cats and their kittens.

“A lot of kittens are being born, which typically happens earlier,” said Ms. McElman.

For more information about the Meet Your Match Program or adopting an animal visit www.renfrewcounty.ontariospca.ca or call 613-588-4508.

Cyndi Mills is a Daily Observer multimedia journalist

cyndi.mills@sunmedia.ca