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In 1995, UCHS took over the pound contracts for the towns of Erin and Eramosa. We then provided contractual animal control services to the Town of Erin from 2005 to 2016, at which time, it was transferred to Orangeville SPCA. Animal control services are currently provided on a contract basis by Omega Canine Control Services. Dog licensing is offered online through Docupet or in person at Town offices. Plans for a new UCHS shelter include space to provide animal control and licensing services. 

We rescue, rehabilitate, spay/neuter and vaccinate stray and surrendered animals, match them with loving families, support pet owners in crisis, and re-unite lost pets with their families. We also assist with placement of unclaimed animals from animal control and from Provincial Animal Welfare. All of these services are provided at NO COST to the Town or its taxpayers.

Yes, UCHS has leased the property from the Town of Erin since 2002. UCHS pays rent, land taxes, and pays for ALL maintenance and repairs on the building or property. UCHS owns the building. All of this is funded through UCHS, at NO COST to the Town or taxpayers. As part of our proposal to the Town to remain at this location, UCHS has indicated a willingness to negotiate a significant rent increase. Our current location has been suitable for us for decades and, with some improvements, could sustain our operations for the foreseeable future. 

The land was donated to the Town of Erin. In a deed of land, dated April 13, 1965, the Minister of Highways approved the proposed transfer of land to the Town for $150 and clearly states that the land be used for “Municipal Purposes” only. The actual deed between Annabelle Falconer and the Town of Erin, dated December 7, 1965, reads that the donor wished it to be used “for a Centennial Park.” The Town paid $1200 for the land. The Falconer family recollects that Annabelle Falconer “donated the land [...] with the intent that it would be used for animal rescue and shelter services.” Documentation, however, is vague on the details. 

Yes, this is one of our options. Unfortunately, suitable properties that permit the operation of an animal shelter are difficult to find. We are a non-profit organization and all our funds go towards caring for the animals. We would not qualify for a mortgage. Land purchase (or donation) and construction of a new facility is possible if enough funds are raised and a suitable location is found. 

The Town has advised that there is currently no suitable Town-owned property for UCHS to use. We currently sit on land zoned as OS1-Open Space, which does not include animal shelter as an acceptable use. However, the Town has engaged in a lease agreement with UCHS for 23 years, without any concern for this zoning infraction. If this is now a roadblock to future planning, we suggest that the Town add “animal shelter” to the approved uses for OS-1. The Town has suggested they will assist us in looking for another location, but has not provided any details as to how or when. 

In early 2024, UCHS developed a proposal to remain at our current location by building a modern, multi-use community hub, including an expanded shelter, animal control services, educational programming, public trails, a visitor information centre, and a fenced dog park. This plan has been endorsed by the Erin Chamber of Commerce and aligns directly with the Town’s strategic priorities, but despite multiple requests, UCHS was never granted the opportunity to formally present this proposal to Council before they made the decision to end our lease.  We encourage Council to view our proposal and get public feedback on this plan through a Town Hall or Delegation to Council. 

While the Board’s main focus is developing a plan for the future of UCHS, we are also considering plans if we have to close. The welfare of the animals is our top priority and we are committed to working with neighbouring communities and other Shelters to ensure they have a safe place to go. The beloved Thrift Shop in Georgetown would close and plans will be made for the allocation of funds.

When the Town previously extended our Lease, they also strongly implied that we would not have to leave and would work to ensure the future of UCHS within the Town of Erin. As a result, we put the campaign on hold pending the outcome of this collaboration. Plans are now underway to re-launch a major capital campaign, as UCHS will require significant financial resources to build a new facility, whether at our current location or a new property. Individuals interested in discussing a major financial gift can contact the Board of Directors at chair@uppercredit.com. 

We have been a pillar of the Erin community for decades and would like to be here for the future. We have provided an unparalleled service to the Town at no cost to them and have incredible support from the community. We see staying as a win-win for everyone: the Town, the community, and the animals.

Unfortunately, no. To relocate UCHS is a massive endeavour. Not only do we need to find a new property that is properly zoned and potentially build a new shelter building, we also need to raise significant funds to do so. 

 We are seeking 1 to 2 acres of land in a rural setting with road access. There is no zoning for an animal shelter in Town of Erin or any of the surrounding Towns. However, if it is a rural, agricultural property (farmland), we are hoping the Town will permit our use of the location. If you have or know of land that may be suitable for our needs, please contact the Board of Directors at chair@uppercredit.com.