About 40 rescue dogs from Natuashish are now quarantining on the island and are one step closer to finding their forever homes.

North Atlantic Remote Vet Services is one of the groups involved in the effort.

Founder Dr. Maxina Hunt says the animals are being quarantined at several SPCA’s across the island. It’s there they will stay for two weeks as they receive additional care before they are available for adoption.

Hunt says knowing that there are dogs just like hers that are going through hard times, makes her emotional and that these are lovely dogs and they deserve to have a second chance at a good home.

Hunt says the coast of Labrador is a very tough environment for people and dogs. It’s cold, it’s very expensive, and gas and food can be limited. She says the dogs are mainly strays and are reproducing very efficiently; the puppies as a result often do not make it.

Hunt says having dogs starving and continuously having puppies is not only stressful for the dogs but for the communities as well.

She says it’s not just a veterinary problem or a welfare problem, it’s a humanitarian problem, and she firmly believes that people need to help in these situations and try to make a difference.