The Montreal SPCA says it is dealing with an unprecedented number of abandoned animals this year due to the rising cost of living.
The shelter reportedly received 20 percent more animals in the first six months of 2023 than in the same period a year ago.
According to Anthony Johnson, director of the Montreal SPCA, these figures were surprising.
“We were expecting it to be the same as last year,” he told CTV News. “What we didn’t count on was the cost of living crisis, the inflation that is hitting everybody.”
From pet food to vet bills, caring for a furry friend is expensive, even without inflation. And then there’s the issue of rising rents, which Johnson describes as particularly challenging for pet owners.
“Because of that, people are having to make really heartbreaking decisions about keeping the whole family together or finding a place to live,” she said, noting that many landlords don’t allow pets. Are.
In May, Quebec’s other opposition party, Quebec Solidaire, introduced a bill to ban no-pet clauses in rental leases.
“This will mean people will have a lot more choice when it comes to finding a home where the whole family can live together,” Johnson said.
But as Quebec’s turn-over day draws closer, the director expects the number of surrendered animals to rise.
“It’s a really important time.”
The SPCA says it already receives about 200 calls a day from families considering this option.
It costs the SPCA approximately $1,000 to find a home for an abandoned pet, and the organization is welcoming donations.
It also encourages Montreal families interested in adoption to come forward.
With files from CTV’s Matt Gilmour.