The BC SPCA is urging provincial election candidates to prioritize pet-friendly housing, saying restrictions on pets can force families to choose between keeping their animals and having a home.
More than 100 animals are waiting for homes at BC SPCA shelters across Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast, with many having been in care for more than 100 days, according to the organization.
The BC SPCA said the number of animals needing homes is higher than at the same time last year, particularly for kittens and puppies.
Some animals have been surrendered because their owners could no longer afford their care or struggled to find pet-friendly housing.
The organization is calling on the provincial government to improve access to pet-friendly housing. It is also encouraging prospective adopters to consider animals at shelters beyond their local area.
“Pets reduce loneliness and help people make important social connections,” said Sarah Herring, the BC SPCA’s senior officer for government relations. “Pet restrictions in rentals and strata make systemic housing barriers even more challenging, and force people to make the heartbreaking choice between a member of their family and a roof over their head.”
