Long-time Weyburn Humane Society Animal Shelter employee Janna Holtz is leaving the shelter to further her career.
Holtz will be going to school in Regina this fall to pursue a career in massage therapy, but after more than five years at the shelter it won't be an easy transition.
"I'm really going to miss getting to know the animals and trying to match them up with the right homes," said Holtz.
Holtz said her time at the shelter has enriched her life and been a very rewarding experience.
"I've met lots of good animals that I will never forget and lots of good people," Holtz said.
Holtz said the aspect of her job that she will miss the most is receiving visits and updates from people who have adopted pets from the shelter. She isn't the only one who will miss being at the shelter on a regular basis. Her dog Luna, which Holtz adopted from the shelter, often comes to work with her.
"Luna loves kittens and likes to clean them and snuggle them," said Holtz.
Holtz has also adopted two cats since beginning at the shelter. Her biggest contribution, however, has been the Sponsor a Spay program, in which people can pay to have a shelter animal spayed or neutered to help it get adopted. Holtz suggested the idea several months ago and it has since become a popular form of donation.
Holtz said she plans to stay involved with the animal shelter by volunteering or becoming a Weyburn Humane Society board member.
Holtz was the longest full-time employee the shelter ever had. Her last day at the shelter is August 9.