In 2016 the Cochrane and Area Humane Society (CAHS) saw its busiest year yet.

Intake of animals was up 26% over the previous year, bringing in just over 1400 animals predominantly from the Cochrane area and 91 through its Airdrie program.

Fund Development Officer, Jaimie Anton, says a combination of growing population and poor economy have attributed to the shelter's boom in pet population.

"I think it's a combination of a few different things; definitely increasing our area to bring in Airdrie is part of it, also working with a few other rescue groups for some transfers in, but economy was definitely part of it for some of the medical cases we received and a lot more senior pets this year as well."

The good news- although intakes shot up 26%, the shelter's adoption rate also spiked.

"Our adoptions were also up 25% this year over last year, so lots of animals going back into the community for their forever homes."

Late 2016 also saw the opening of the Humane's Rehabilitation and Education Centre; Anton says the addition has been an incredible asset.

"Its been a huge bonus to have that, especially when we hit that cold weather in January; its been a great bonus for the community in terms of all of our training programs are now out of that, and its been really nice for our shelter animals, particularly our dogs. We can do a 'Play for Life' program which is getting dogs out playing, if we can get them into groups where they can play together and socialize in a warm, dry, safe environment."

In April of 2016, CAHS announced it would be providing service to the Airdrie community and Anton anticipates 2017 will see increased growth.

"We definitely want to get that word out that we're there to help and that the services that we provide are there."

Looking ahead Anton says focus will be on continuing to support and educate Cochrane and surrounding communities.

"We certainly want to to utilize our new centre to the best of our abilities, we're really excited to have that fantastic resource available to us and everyone in the community, as well as be able to support anyone that needs the assistance whether that is groups of other rescue organizations, and help with any education we can."

Pajama Parties, kids' camps, and birthday parties are also starting back up, and May 27th will bring 'Mutt Strut'. For information on upcoming programming and events you can visit here.