To the Editor,
As a community, we all share a responsibility to care for the animals who rely on us — from beloved family pets to the strays who need a second chance. That’s why it’s frustrating to see a lack of collaboration between the Russell Veterinary Clinic/Vet Board and Passion 4 Paws. When two organizations share the same goals, working together only makes sense.
Passion 4 Paws has made a tremendous difference in this community. Their volunteers have stepped up to rescue, foster, and rehome countless animals, often using their own time and resources. Since Passion 4 Paws was established, they’ve generated over $13,888.70 in veterinary services and dog food purchases — directly supporting the clinic while improving animal welfare across the region. This does not include more than $2,800 in rent paid while Passion 4 Paws volunteers cared not only for their own rescue animals but also for animals boarded at the vet clinic from the time they were there until they were evicted in June 2025.
Even after being asked to vacate the vet clinic kennels, Passion 4 Paws continue to bring all animals to the clinic for vaccinations, spaying, and neutering — and even cleaned the kennel building, which had been left in poor condition before Passion 4 Paws began using it. That kind of dedication speaks volumes about their commitment to both animal welfare and the local clinic.
At the same time, the Russell Vet Board has asked the public to support it’s one annual fundraiser, yet it has also turned away a steady stream of potential income. Passion 4 Paws had offered to lease space on Vet Board property and bring additional revenue through monthly rent and veterinary service use. However, the Vet Board passed a resolution stating it “will not permit private businesses or organizations to develop, lease, or otherwise utilize any portion of the Vet Board property.”
(Municipal records also show that the Municipality of Russell Binscarth will be approving an $11,000 levy to the Vet Board — an increase over the previous year.)

Read the whole letter on pages 4 & 6 in this week's Russell Banner.