Baccalieu animal shelter offering plushie pet ‘adoptions’

By Olivia Bradbury, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Baccalieu Trail SPCA has launched a new program that sees children adopt stuffed animals to learn about pet care.

Plushie Pals is funded through a grant from the VOCM Cares Foundation. It’s designed for children ages four to 12, but exceptions can be made for children outside that age range. Children must be accompanied by a guardian.

Through the program, children visit the Spaniard’s Bay shelter and adopt their own plush cat or dog. They can pick out pet accessories and will receive an adoption certificate. They also get to meet real veterinarians who will offer medical exams to their new furry friends.

The shelter’s staff hope it will provide a fun and interactive way for children to learn about animal adoption, responsible pet ownership, and veterinary medicine.

The first Plushie Pals events were held at the shelter back in July. More than 40 children participated, with veterinarians Dr. Dan Quinlan and Dr. Lynn Clarke volunteering their time to give check-ups to the plush pets.