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Written by Kathi Travers
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Sunday, 28 June 2009 |
I write today’s column with both a proud and a sad tear in my eye.
†I am filled with pride, because I live in a community where people actually deeply care about each other and all living things. I am proud to be a volunteer and board member of the finest animal welfare organization in Canada, the British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
I have a very sad tear because one member of this fine community, who also happened to be employee of the B.C. SPCA, died in a car accident.
Jeannine Woodhouse was not ready to leave this earth. Last Wednesday she got into her B.C. SPCA vehicle heading to Williams Lake to meet her supervisor, Kent Kokoska, and several enforcement officers from the Ministry of Forests.
The meeting was to discuss how the agencies might work together to relieve stress in animals.
Kokoska specifically invited Woodhouse because of her reputation of working in concert with other agencies. There was no pressure for her to attend, but in true Jeanine fashion, she was a woman on a mission.
Kent Kokoska worked closely with Woodhouse in 2003 during the Barrier fires where she worked her magic to help relieve stress in the animals affected by the fires.
Woodhouse took a job after that with B.C. Corrections and came back as a Special Constable to fill a spot during a maternity leave.
Kokoska sums up the loss. “It is hard to grasp the fact that Jeannine leaves such a huge void in this community and the organizations for which she worked.”
Chad Bohanon was hired as a kennel attendant for the B.C. SPCA North Cariboo branch five and a half years ago. The young fellow liked the idea of working for the B.C. SPCA, but made it clear to Woodhouse that he aspired to one day be part of the team which investigates complaints under the PCA and Criminal Codes pertaining to animal welfare.
He was teamed up with Debbie Goodine and absorbed as much knowledge that he could, mostly on his own time.
On May 13 Bohanon received his shield and assumed the role that he worked hard for as Special Constable.
He credits Woodhouse for encouraging him to follow his dream.
Woodhouse and Bonanon spent two weeks working together on a “case.” Jeannine’s enthusiasm and high energy has really inspired me and motivated me to continue the passion that Jeannine shared so well,” said Bohanon.
The new Special Constable was so looking forward to working more cases with his former boss.
†My last meeting with Jeannine was at Starbucks. She came in for a meeting with someone else and when she saw me encouraged me to please call her youngest daughter, Fallon.
I hadn’t seen Fallon in a while and we had a special bond. Jeannine appreciated that bond and I gave my word I would call her daughter that day.
We met the next day and I was so happy to see how lovely she had grown up to
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Lifestyle TV
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be.
Jeannine did have a way of producing absolutely gorgeous and delightful daughters.
Jeannine Woodhouse made a very positive contribution to this community and those she came in contact with. Her passion and determination has inspired many. Her smile and humour will last in our hearts forever.
Folks that work in the animal welfare world do not do it for the money. They do it because it truly is a calling. Many put their lives on the line everyday just like Jeannine Woodhouse did. I applaud you all.
n On another lighter note: One of my favourite primates at UNBC recently received a promotion. I am not sure what VP of External Relations means but I do hope it’s not catching and that his wife is fully aware of those relations. It is also very interesting to note that the new VP got the new title on April Fool’s Day. The modest fellow seems to be keeping it hush-hush.
All kidding aside, I think he is very deserving and has done quite a bit to put UNBC and Prince George on the map in a very positive way. What a guy!
n Thank you Kelli Steer and your amazing staff at the very pet and human friendly Coast Inn of the North for your support during a rough time.
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Last Updated ( Sunday, 28 June 2009 )
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