(Supplied)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

will save countless lives

Ground broken on new Saving Grace Animal Society vet clinic in Alix

Apr 30, 2022 | 11:21 AM

Saving Grace Animal Society, located in Alix, has finally broken ground on its new veterinary clinic.

Folks with the organization have been trying to get this project off the ground for years.

“We’ve had such an incredible day seeing this dream finally coming true. Our hearts could not be fuller as we imagine the thousands of lives that will be changed by having our own clinic,” says Erin Deems, co-executive director.

Ground was broken on April 25 — at its Alix site, a 2,000 square foot facility will be built, and feature a surgery suite and laboratory, recovery and monitoring rooms, as well as x-ray, dental and medication capabilities.

“We are currently seeing the toughest time our rescue has ever faced. Between the economy, shortage of veterinarians, COVID-related surrenders and returns and an increased call volume, we often questioned if this was the right time,” adds Deems, “But if not now, when? We need this now more than ever.”

full budget in the spring

Blackfalds town council passes interim operating and capital budgets

34m ago

Missing: Nisa Pakyurek, 15, of Parkland County

50m ago

$39.4 million

Town of Ponoka approves 2026 interim budget

59m ago

(Supplied)

The organization says more fundraising is still required in order to equip the vet clinic with necessary medical machinery, supplies and pharmaceuticals.

Deems says they are currently putting together different sponsorship packages.

“Rather than drive countless hours with injured animals, sometimes up to 50 per week, we’ll be able to walk across our parking lot to seek treatment,” says Deems, acknowledging that in some medical cases, every second counts. “By our estimation, reduction in transport related costs and the addition of in-house veterinarian care could reduce our monthly medical bills by 50 to 60 per cent.”

A grand opening celebration will be held once the clinic is completed, operational and ready.