The weather is warming up, robins are starting to sing, and grass is beginning to poke through the snow.

With spring comes much excitement and joy, but it is also the time of year when predators start looking for prey to help feed their young. Every year, many companion animals are targets for predators, causing many companions to be reported as missing.

Predators are looking for animals that they can easily hunt and catch, such as cats, bunnies, ferrets, guinea pigs, small dogs — basically any animal that is outside, unsupervised and is the right size to look tempting to a predator trying to find food.

Predators are not just cougars and coyotes, there are also owls and eagles who hunt from above. These wild animals can live and hunt right in town, or may venture in from surrounding areas to find food.

We urge you to keep a close eye on your animal friends when they are outdoors and suggest spending time outdoors with them, walking them with a leash and harness, or building a safe enclosure for them to enjoy the outdoors in (there are many inexpensive options on the internet). Spaying and neutering your cat or dog could also help, as it will lessen their desire to wander off in search of a mate. Please help to keep your buddies safe, they rely on you.

Favourite predator hunting areas include Pineridge, Westridge, Westside Park, 13th Avenue, Kootenay Road #1 and 2 in Windermere, Juniper Heights and Dry Gulch.

If you have lost or found a companion animal, please contact ICAN at 341-7888 or email at info@icanhelpapet.com and we will help direct you as to the proper steps to take and also help you search for your companion. Your buddy may already be safe with us and just waiting to go home!

Lana Banham

ICAN Volunteer President