Dear Manitoba Pet Expo Exhibitors,
As we shared earlier this week, the St. Norbert Community Centre has been on stand-by to serve as a temporary shelter for those displaced by the wildfires.
Late this afternoon, we were advised that the community centre was contacted by the Province of Manitoba’s Emergency Management Office, on behalf of the Winnipeg Humane Society—as they require a temporary shelter for dogs and cats displaced by evacuation measures. The St. Norbert Community Centre venue was selected because of the size of space the community centre offers, and its proximity to green spaces. Beginning tomorrow, June 2, the WHS will start delivering equipment and supplies to the arena to begin setting up shelter space, play/exercise areas, examination areas, food storage, volunteer rooms, and more.
Unfortunately, this means the Manitoba Pet Expo, scheduled for Sunday, June 8, will need to be postponed— with the hope of rescheduling for a date this summer. While we are still working out the details, we wanted to let you know as soon as we knew.
We know this means a collective shift for everyone involved but knowing that dogs and cats who were not allowed to accompany their owners to temporary evacuation areas will be safe and cared for is what matters most right now.
In the short time since receiving this update from the community centre, we did look at alternate venue options for next weekend. Unfortunately, none could offer the same space and layout, and our big concern would be informing everyone of the new location without putting additional stress on the incoming animals to the St. Norbert Community Centre.
We’ll be in touch as soon as we have a new date confirmed so you can check your availability. If the new date doesn’t work for you, please know we’ll gladly provide a full refund for any fees you’ve paid.
Once again, thank you for your understanding, flexibility and continued support of the Manitoba Pet Expo. We are more than just an event—we are a community. And it’s times like these that the strength of our community truly shines. Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by the wildfires, and we’re grateful to stand alongside such a caring and compassionate community.
Sincerely,
Jessica, Rena, Lorraine & Trina
Manitoba Pet Expo Inc.
manitobapetexpo@gmail.com
www.manitobapetexpo.com
