Image Credit: PEXELS
October 17, 2020 - 9:00 PM
Have you ever had trouble finding pet-friendly housing? You're not alone, and the B.C. SPCA wants to change that.
During the pandemic the SPCA saw a surge in people seeking the comfort and companionship of animals, which made the need for pet-friendly accommodation even more urgent, according to a B.C. SPCA media release.
In response, the SPCA launched a campaign urging British Columbians to voice their support for more pet-friendly housing in the province Oct. 13.
“Approximately 25 per cent of all animals surrendered to B.C. SPCA facilities are given up because their guardians can’t find housing that will allow their pet,” manager of companion animal welfare Meghann Cant said in the release. “It is heartbreaking to see people forced to give up a pet because of housing issues.”
The SPCA cites plenty of research that shows the significant role that animals play in the mental and physical wellbeing of humans. Further, studies have shown that pet-friendly housing is a benefit for landlords who want responsible tenants.
“A Firepaw study shows tenants with animals in pet-friendly housing stay an average of 46 months compared to 18 months for tenants in rental housing prohibiting pets,” Cant said. “Not only do people with pets change their housing much less frequently than people without pets, they’re usually willing to pay more.”
The study also revealed there was no statistically significant difference in damage between tenants with pets and tenants without pets.
The SPCA has created an online tool kit to help pet owners find a home. It includes information about pet-friendly housing, the benefits of having tenants with pets, a resumé with references that explains why the pet and owner are good tenants, and a pet policy that both tenant and landlord can mutually agree upon and sign.
To access the online tool kit, click here.
To sign the SPCA's pet-friendly housing petition, click here.
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