Is there a dog, a cat, or even a rat-shaped hole in your heart?
If you're looking for a furry best pal to get you through the next few months of isolation, the BC SPCA is offering half-price adoption fees for all animals in its facilities across British Columbia.
The adoption event is being presented in partnership with Hill’s® Pet Nutrition, and runs until Friday, March 27.
While staff and volunteers are continuing to care for animals in SPCA facilities, there is no public access until further notice except for appointments for adoptions and emergency surrenders. Despite the limited staffing, the organization aims to maintain the flow of animals in new, loving homes. As such, prospective owners are encouraged to view available animals online.
“Our goal is to find as many loving homes as possible for the animals currently in our care so that we can continue to help new, incoming animals with our limited staffing capacity during the COVID-19 crisis,” says Lorie Chortyk, general manager of communications of the BC SPCA.
“Because of the need to limit personal contact, we are asking people to view animals available for adoption on our website and to fill out an online adoption form. Our staff will then contact individuals to set up an in-shelter appointment to meet the animal.”
Right now, the BC SPCA has nearly 550 animals awaiting families, including dogs, puppies, cats, kittens, birds, rabbits and other small animals, as well as horses and other farm animals.
“We know that homeless, abused and injured animals will continue to come into our care in the weeks and months ahead through our cruelty investigations and other emergency situations,” says Chortyk. “Maintaining the flow of animals into new, loving homes is critical in freeing up space and resources for the animals in most urgent need of help.”
“We are truly grateful to our adopters for opening their hearts and homes to the animals in our care,” says Chortyk. “In these unprecedented times, the animals need us more than ever.”
For more information on animals available for adoption, adoption fees and the online application process, please visit the BC SPCA online.
Worried that Fido might get sick with COVID-19?
While you'll still want to keep yourself and your pet safe and healthy, there's currently no evidence to support that domestic animals, such as cats and dogs, can get become sick with this new coronavirus.
During this pandemic, however, many Canadians will find themselves at home with their furry best pal. If you have at least one canine or feline family member in your home, there are a few things to keep in mind. Have a look at COVID-19 pet guide here.
