Demand, lack of space threatening Winnipeg-based ‘pocket pets’ rescue shelter

Popcorns and Binkies Rescue Haven specializes in rescuing unique and exotic pets.

A Winnipeg-based not-for-profit specializing in rescuing unique animals and exotic pets says it’s at risk of closing because it’s running out of room.

Popcorns and Binkies Rescue Haven is among the only rescues in the province taking in animals it describes as “often misunderstood pocket pets” — everything from hamsters and rabbits to rats and hedgehogs.

“If it’s not a cat or a dog, we’ve probably had it in rescue at some point,” explains founder and executive director, Cindy Hildebrand.

“We are one of the only organizations in Manitoba and much of Canada that take in the variety of animals that we do.”

But after nearly five years of work, Hildebrand says Popcorns and Binkies has hit the limits of what the small organization can do with out expanding.

“We’re out of room,” said Hildebrand, who runs Popcorns and Binkies along with her husband.

Up until now she says they’ve relied on foster families, but with more than 60 pets currently in care — and a waiting list of more than 50 more  — the rescue is working to fundraise enough money to get a more permanent space.

“We need a place to call home, because without a shelter facility — a physical location — to help us host these animals, we’re just not going to be able to continue what we’re doing,” she told Global News Winnipeg Morning this week.