Summerland’s Critteraid Sanctuary reopens after an avian flu scare, confirming its beloved peacocks are safe and healthy.
Sanctuary Reopens After Scare
The calm has finally returned to Summerland’s Critteraid Sanctuary, and the news feels like a breath of fresh air. After weeks of strict avian flu precautions, the gates are open again, and the peacocks are safe. Because the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) worked closely with the sanctuary, every step was steady, clear, and focused on protecting the birds.
Flu Case Sparks Urgent Action
Back in late October, things changed fast. A single bird died on Oct. 25. Soon after, three more birds were lost. Even before the test results arrived, the team noticed the danger. So they acted quickly to stop the spread of H5N1. As a result, all the chickens died, and, since the ducks lived in the same building, they had to be put down to prevent further risk.
Even though the situation was heartbreaking, the team moved with purpose. And because they followed every CFIA step, the sanctuary remained protected from wider harm.
Safety Measures Lead to Good News
Quarantine rules went up right away. In addition, strict controls guided every move on the property. And then, after weeks of care, the breakthrough arrived. On Nov. 28, Critteraid announced that the sanctuary had reopened.
Better yet, tests showed the peacocks were safe.
“Our beautiful peacocks, Jake and Nicolaj, were not exposed and are now exempt and safe,” the team shared in a joyful post.
Crisis Opens New Conversations
The experience did more than bring relief. It sparked important conversations. Because the outbreak raised fresh questions, it also encouraged new dialogue about animal welfare and avian flu. As a result, Critteraid has now been invited to join several committees to learn from experts, share insights and support future planning.
Care Continues for Other Animals
During the entire ordeal, the sanctuary still carried on with caring for 100 other animals. And since Critteraid has been serving the community for more than 30 years, its dedication showed yet again. With cats, dogs and many farm animals depending on it, the sanctuary stayed steady through the challenge.
Now, with doors open, peacocks safe and lessons learned, Critteraid moves forward with hope—stronger, wiser and ready for whatever comes next.
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