The BC SPCA announces plans to begin construction on the Vancouver Island Animal Behaviour Centre, a first-of-its-kind animal behaviour centre in Duncan, B.C. The centre aims to assist animal in the BC SPCA’s care who are fearful, under-socialized, and in need of significant behavioural support before they can find their forever homes.

In some Vancouver Island communities, up to 18 per cent of dogs and 30 per cent of cats that come into the BC SPCA’s care require individualized behavioural care plans. To address these needs, the new centre will feature a specially designed room that simulates a “real home,” allowing for behaviour modification activities in an environment similar to what the animals will experience after adoption.

“When an animal enters the care of the BC SPCA with behavioural challenges, our staff do everything they can to support their unique needs, but a busy shelter setting isn’t always the best place for that animal to thrive,” says Leon Davis, BC SPCA senior manager of animal care services for the island and coastal region. “Giving that animal time in a calmer environment with a team of dedicated animal behaviour specialists offers them a better chance to see the comfort of a loving home much quicker.”

The new facility will replace the existing BC SPCA Cowichan Community Animal Centre and will continue to provide animal welfare services to the Cowichan community while focusing on animals with greater behavioural needs.