The Okanagan Humane Society (OHS) dealt with record-breaking demand in 2025, so it’s no surprise that 2026 is starting the same way.

A release from the non-profit animal rescue organization says it has already taken in 42 dogs and puppies through the first two weeks of the new year.

Although it’s a small sample size, that pace would surpass last year’s record-breaking numbers, and it comes on top of the steady intake of cats and kittens that have already stretched resources thin.

“We’ve started the year off with a bang,” noted Romany Runnalls, OHS executive director. “The need is immediate, overwhelming and heartbreaking.”

Photo Credit: OHS

The OHS says the dogs and puppies who have arrived in their hands early this year tell a “powerful story of compassion, crisis and community failure.”

Some were rescued directly from the public, others were transferred from dog control in the Okanagan and a few were sadly surrendered by owners after moves to long-term care or death.

According to the OHS, 16 puppies were surrendered from a North Okanagan home when the owners could no longer afford their care. Another four were found living in a shed in the South Okanagan. Six more were among 27 rescued in Merritt.

“Angel’s Animal Care Rescue reached out to us because 27 puppies were simply too many for a small charity to handle alone,” Runnalls said. “That’s what collaboration in rescue looks like – stepping in when animals’ lives are on the line.”

Photo Credit: OHS

Each dog the OHS takes in gets examined by a veterinarian, tested for parvo, vaccinated, dewormed, microchipped, assessed and spayed or neutered.

That comes with an average cost of $350 per animal, which means the expenses are already adding up for the charity early in 2026.

With an expectation of helping more than 4,500 animals in 2026, the OHS is projecting that they’ll need to raise more than $1.5 million throughout the year.

“As long as we have volunteer foster homes and the funding, we can continue saving lives,” explained Runnalls. “But we cannot do this alone.”

Anyone who would like to support the cause and make a contribution to the OHS is encouraged to make a donation at this link.