Finding a rental that allows pets can be another hurdle for people struggling to secure housing. The BC SPCA is raising the issue ahead of B.C.’s provincial election as animals across Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast wait for families of their own. More than 100 animals, including dogs, cats, birds, rabbits and guinea pigs, are in the organization’s care awaiting adoption. Some have been waiting more than 100 days, and the BC SPCA says the number needing homes is higher than at the same time last year, particularly among kittens and puppies. While some animals arrive as strays or through protection investigations, others are surrendered because their owners face financial difficulties, cannot manage the number of pets they have or have not found housing that welcomes pets. The organization’s “Vote for Pet-Friendly Housing” campaign urges British Columbians to ask political parties and local candidates to support better access to pet-friendly housing ahead of the Oct. 24 provincial election. “Pets reduce loneliness and help people make important social connections,” said Sarah Herring, the BC SPCA’s senior officer for government relations, in a release. The organization says restrictions in rental properties and strata housing can force people to choose between keeping a beloved pet and finding a place to live. Its campaign encourages residents to send a letter to candidates calling for changes to housing policies. Meet some of the animals waiting for homes In Victoria, Kiya is a senior dog looking for a loving home where she can spend her remaining years in comfort and as free from pain as possible. Ozzie, a playful Husky mix in Nanaimo, needs an experienced family with room for him to burn off energy before settling down for cuddles. In Comox, Kota is building confidence after missing out on important early-life experiences. He needs a patient owner who can provide structure, guidance and encouragement. Cher, a three-year-old rabbit in the qathet Regional District, has recovered from surgery for an eyelid condition and may have partial vision loss in her right eye. She is looking for a calm home where she can adjust at her own pace. Adoption helps other animals, too Finding homes for animals ready to leave the centres also frees up space for others in need. “We always want to see animals who are ready for adoption getting out of the centres and into their new homes as soon as possible,” said Leon Davis, a BC SPCA regional manager for animal care services, in the release. “Not only is this, of course, better for the animals, but it also helps us free up space in our centres for the next vulnerable animal who needs our help.” People interested in adopting can browse available animals on the BC SPCA website. Those unable to adopt can still help by fostering, volunteering, donating or sharing adoption listings with friends and family.
