The Victoria Humane Society in British Columbia is currently overwhelmed with the number of animals in need of care and shelter. The executive director, Penny Stone, explained that the situation has dramatically worsened since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to financial difficulties, many people are no longer able to afford to keep their pets, which has led to a surge in abandoned animals. Additionally, the inability to conduct spay and neuter programs in smaller communities has resulted in uncontrolled population growth among animals. This has put a strain on the resources of the Victoria Humane Society, forcing them to turn away animals for the first time in their history.
The cost of living is also a contributing factor to the increase in abandoned animals, as rising pet food prices are making it difficult for individuals to provide for their pets. Stone mentioned that they have a waitlist of over 45 dogs and nearly double that number of cats. The current facilities at the Victoria Humane Society are not equipped to handle the escalating number of animals in need of assistance. To address this issue, the organization is actively seeking a larger facility with acreage that can accommodate the growing demand for shelter and rehabilitation services. The goal is to provide a safe space where animals can be assessed, rehabilitated, and prepared for adoption.
In response to the urgent need for a new facility, the Victoria Humane Society is reaching out to the public for assistance. They are asking for anyone who may have or know of a property that meets their requirements to consider donating or selling it to the organization. A generous donor has provided seed money to help with the purchase of a new property, but additional support is needed to make this goal a reality. Stone emphasized that finding a larger facility is crucial not only for the animals in need but also for the individuals who are facing difficult decisions due to their changed circumstances.
The ultimate aim of the Victoria Humane Society is to provide a safe and supportive environment for animals that have been abandoned or mistreated. By offering rehabilitation programs and adoption services, they hope to give these animals a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life. Stone highlighted the emotional toll that turning away animals can take on the organization and the individuals seeking help. As the number of abandoned animals continues to rise, it is essential for the Victoria Humane Society to expand its facilities and resources to meet the growing demand for their services.
The current situation at the Victoria Humane Society is unprecedented, with the organization facing challenges they have never encountered before. Stone, who has been involved in animal welfare for over 20 years, expressed concern over the lack of resources and space to accommodate the increasing number of animals in need of help. By raising awareness about their plight and seeking support from the public, the Victoria Humane Society hopes to find a suitable new facility that can meet the demands of their growing operation. The generosity of donors and community members will be crucial in ensuring that these animals receive the care and attention they deserve.
