Work begins on new SPCA for Pictou County

The ground was broken for the new SPCA in Stellarton, Pictou County by two furry helpers on May 4.

Located at the corner of Heritage Avenue and Lawrence Boulevard in the Albion Business Park, Jake and Praia performed the honours on the land donated by the town of Stellarton.

The new SPCA facility will include a larger shelter with cat and dog adoption spaces, an enforcement office, a social enterprise hospital (opening in 2025) and a thrift store. It will serve Pictou County, Antigonish County, Port Hawkesbury and Guysborough County.

The current SPCA building in Granton is over 43 years old.

“Our current facility does not reflect the quality of care the animals receive or have the capacity to offer all Nova Scotia SPCA programs,” says Elizabeth Murphy, Nova Scotia SPCA CEO. “Since the shelter was originally built there have been advances in animal welfare and demand for our services.”

The new North Nova facility will be named the Sharon and Elmer MacKay Building in recognition of former MP Elmer MacKay and his wife Sharon MacKay and their donations and commitment to the project.

During the event’s reception, Elmer spoke about how the SPCA eases the anxiety of pet owners who are getting older and worry about what will happen to their pets if they have to leave their homes or get sick.

“I think it is fair to say a society is judged by the way it treats people who need help and this is certainly a worthy cause,” says Elmer.

He went on to say that the SPCA not only provides health and nurture but also comfort.

The SPCA is looking to raise $2.5 million for the new facility, with 50 per cent already being raised as of the groundbreaking.

“This is something that means something to me and I wanted to see a new facility come to fruition here in North Nova,” says Marsha Sobey, chair of the fundraising committee for this project. “I have an immense respect for those who work in the SPCA [...]. They do great work and they are passionate and work day in and day out to find a better life for animals.”

Boots on the ground construction is set to start this summer.