Animal welfare groups are highlighting access to housing as a key factor influencing pet care and relinquishment in British Columbia. BC SPCA and FIRST UNITED are calling for changes to provincial tenancy laws to reduce pet restrictions in multi-unit housing, citing impacts on animal welfare and continuity of care.

Housing barriers reportedly remain a leading reason for pet surrender, with more than 12,400 animals entering BC SPCA care since 2014 for this reason alone. Limited pet-friendly options can disrupt veterinary care, increase stress, and contribute to the preventable relinquishment of otherwise healthy animals.

“While we recognize that some landlords and housing providers have legitimate concerns about allowing pets, FIRST UNITED’s ground-breaking research proves that these are the exception, not the norm, and not a valid reason for widespread pet bans and restrictions,” says Sarah Herring, government relations officer for the BC SPCA.

To support solutions, the BC SPCA has released a pet-friendly housing toolkit aimed at helping housing providers reduce barriers while maintaining animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.