Beauval residents flee wildfire, rescue group steps in to save animals

BEAUVAL – As the Muskeg fire approaches the northern village of Beauval, residents are under a mandatory evacuation order, but while most are fleeing, some are rushing in to help those left behind.

Among them is Northern Transitional Dog Rescue, a group dedicated to saving pets.

“We’re going to do what we can,” the organization posted on social media late Thursday evening. “Please message us pictures of your animals and we will try to find them.”

The rescue team is also asking evacuees to inform them if their dogs were left tied up. Those needing assistance can contact them at 305-491-4382.

The dog rescue also needs homes to foster rescued pets.

In a July 10 update, the Beauval Emergency Operations Committee (EOC) reported that the canteen building at the recreation grounds was destroyed by the blaze. However, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has assured officials that no other structures in the village have been lost yet, they said.

The mandatory evacuation order was issued last week as wildfires continue to rage across northern Saskatchewan.

On Friday morning, NDP Athabasca MLA Leroy Laliberte issued a statement saying, “My heart goes out to people forced from their homes in Beauval and neighbouring communities as wildfires rage in the area.

“I have been speaking with community leaders and residents all day and there has been an overwhelming frustration about the lack of support being provided by Premier Scott Moe. Moe has not made a public statement about this crisis,” added Laliberte. “We cannot endure another nightmare like the failed Sask. Party response we saw to wildfires in late May and June.”

Laliberte called on the premier to provide the resources necessary to protect homes, small businesses and entire communities.

“People are hurting, fearing the worst and need to know that Scott Moe has their backs,” said Laliberte. “ To my constituents, know that our Saskatchewan NDP Caucus will be working around the clock to ensure you get the support you need and deserve in this difficult time. 

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