About SAAR
The Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue is nearly 100% volunteer-based, and is dedicated to helping animals.
Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue is a non-profit organization that has served the south east of Manitoba since 2013. Volunteers are the lifeline of the organization, which is committed to finding forever homes for abandoned, homeless, and surrendered companion animals.
The demand for intake grows as awareness of the rescue increases. Over the years, the rescue has supported many animals, but our space limitations and budgetary restrictions prevent us from helping all that are in need.
Intake Year vs Intakes
| 2026 | 187 Cats, 20 Dogs |
| 2025 | 371 Cats, 50 Dogs |
| 2024 | 386 Cats, 49 Dogs |
| 2023 | 304 Cats; 85 Dogs |
| 2022 | 284 Cats; 29 Dogs |
| 2021 | 271 Cats; 17 Dogs |
| 2020 | 210 |
| 2019 | 175 |
Our Address Information:
Physical address (NO mail delivery):
39 Keating Road
Steinbach, MB R5G 2S6
Telephone: 204-807-5559
*** MAILING ADDRESS ***
- 20 Brandt Street,
Unit 3, Box #234,
Steinbach MB R5G 1Y2
Vision
To manage the pet population and control disease within our community and surrounding area.
Mission
The Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue provides care, comfort, and compassion to homeless and abandoned companion animals while engaging the hearts, hands, and minds of our community in order to promote the humane treatment of people and animals through education, advocacy, and services.
Michelle Neufeld – Rescue Manager
Introducing our new
Rescue Manager
Meet Our Rescue Manager — Michelle Neufeld
From Founder to SAAR’s First Rescue Manager
Michelle Neufeld founded Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue in 2013 with a vision to make a difference for homeless and abandoned animals in our community. Since then, she has been a driving force behind SAAR’s growth and the organization it has become today.
As SAAR continues to grow, so have the demands of caring for our animals, supporting our volunteers and managing daily operations. To meet those needs, SAAR has created its first paid position: Rescue Manager.
After years of serving as President, Michelle has stepped down from the Board to take on this new role. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, she now oversees day-to-day rescue operations, supports our volunteer community and helps ensure the highest standards of animal care.
It’s a natural next chapter for Michelle — allowing her to focus her experience and passion on the work at the heart of SAAR.
Meet Our Board
At the heart of our rescue, guiding our mission with passion and purpose, is our esteemed Board of Volunteers. Each member brings a unique blend of expertise, compassion, and dedication to our cause, forming the cornerstone of our efforts at the Steinbach & Area Animal Rescue. They generously donate their time, skills, and hearts to ensure every animal we encounter receives the love and care they deserve. From strategic planning to hands-on care, their contributions are invaluable in shaping the future of our rescue and the lives of countless animals. Their unwavering commitment not only supports our day-to-day operations but also fuels our long-term vision for a world where every animal finds a forever home. Join us in celebrating these extraordinary individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes, championing our cause and making a profound difference in the animal welfare community.
Graham Pollock
Chair
Heather Murray
Vice Chair
Helen Friesen
Treasurer
Kara Benoit
Secretary
Cheryl Murray
Board Member
Wilfred Gerhardt
Board Member
Linda Pollock
Board Member
Jeff Azar
Board Member
Melissa Legazpi Montez
Board Member
You?
Board Member
Join Our Board of Directors
Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue (SAAR) is seeking two passionate and dedicated individuals to join our Board of Directors. We are looking for people who care deeply about animal welfare and want to make a meaningful difference in our community. Ideal candidates bring skills such as leadership, fundraising, communications, finance, or community networking—but most importantly, they bring enthusiasm and a willingness to work collaboratively as part of a team.
As a board member, you’ll help guide SAAR’s mission, shape our future growth, and support life-saving work for cats, dogs, and other small animals in need. In return, you’ll gain valuable governance experience, strengthen your leadership skills, and be part of a committed group of people making a real impact in our region.
If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you! Please click the button below to email us your interest and tell us a little about yourself.