At the end of AUG25, WestJet Cargo embarked on a social responsibility mission with its support in getting vet equipment and medication to Canada’s Nunavut territory – in particular, Pangnirtung – a remote Arctic community. Working in collaboration with a national non-profit organization – the Canadian Animal Assistance Team (CAAT) – which focuses on improving animal welfare in underserved communities, the airline arranged the transportation of a 191 kg shipment to and from the small community. The shipment consisted of 12 cases of surgical tools, saline and medical supplies and equipment. It took off from Vancouver via Calgary to Ottawa, landing there on 01SEP25. From here, WestJet Cargo ensured smooth connection to its airline partner, Canadian North, which carried the cargo on its final leg to Pangnirtung. After a two-week volunteer vet mission which included several days of surgery, follow-ups, and community animal care, the equipment embarked on its return journey to Victoria, arriving there on 16SEP25. The project required careful planning, coordination and care, since the shipment had to arrive in time to enable the travelling volunteer vets to carry out their mission.
“CAAT’s ‘MASH-style’ (mobile army surgical hospital) clinics bring fully equipped, temporary veterinary hospitals directly into communities where access to veterinary services is limited or unavailable. Beyond treatment, CAAT works hand-in-hand with local leaders to create Community Animal Care Plans, long-term strategies that promote sustainable animal health and welfare,” the press release explained.
Taylor Nadeau, Cargo Sales Representative at WestJet Cargo, emphasized: “Every community deserves access to basic veterinary care – no matter how remote. These animals are family, workers and part of the community. We were honored to assist CAAT by transporting the specialized equipment that makes their work possible. CAAT’s volunteer teams have tight schedules, with flights and accommodation arranged around community needs. Any delay in the cargo’s arrival could impact the entire mission. We worked closely with Chris from CAAT to prioritize and monitor the shipment at every stage, ensuring it arrived exactly when needed. At WestJet Cargo, we’re proud to support organizations like CAAT whose compassion and commitment reach places few others can. Helping them deliver care where it’s needed most reflects what we believe in – connecting communities in ways that matter.”
