Pet surrenders overwhelm shelters

Mar 30, 2022 | 2:46 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – As COVID-19 infections slow down and a shortage of vets persists, local animal shelters are experiencing increased animal surrenders. Local shelters are bursting at the seams with extra animals.

During the height of the pandemic, The Prince George Humane Society was faced with the challenge of not having enough animals to adopt out. But in recent weeks, things have changed drastically, with more and more people coming to the shelter to surrender their animals.

The shortage of Vets is also being seen across Canada and has become a significant issue. The pandemic has created a considerable backlog regarding access to vet care.

CKPG News spoke to the BC SPCA North Cariboo shelter, who told us their shelter is at capacity, and they are working hard to find homes for animals.

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According to Angela McLaren, Executive Director of the Prince George Humane Society, a solution needs to be found soon before things worsen.

McLaren says, as animals come in at a fast rate, staff cannot move the animals out quickly as they come in. Therefore animals spend more time in the shelter, putting more stress and strain on both staff and animals.

Mclaren recommends that those looking to surrender their animal make some long-term surrender arrangements with a shelter or talk with one of their animal behaviour specialists.

by Dave Branco

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Pet surrenders overwhelm shelters

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