Image Credit: PEXELS
April 18, 2020 - 6:00 PM
When the social distancing measures were put in place in March, the BC SPCA was forced to quickly adapt by launching their online adoption process and reducing staff at shelters across the province.
While drop-in visits are no longer available, the SPCA is doing its best to process online pet applications and schedule meet and greets.
"It’s a big shift for everybody to get used to, and certainly far from perfect,” said Sean Hogan, Kelowna SPCA Branch Manager. “But I do think that it’s a step in the right direction for us."
Some branches in the Okanagan are going through changes in their phone system, and most are currently operating with a skeleton crew.
The best way to adopt an animal from the SPCA at this time is to submit an online application through their website. Prospective pet owners can select whether they’re looking for a dog, cat or other animal and choose their nearest branch.
The application will ask which animal posted on the adoption page is of interest, general lifestyle questions and pet disposition preferences.
That application comes to the branch by email and is reviewed by staff, Hogan explained. Those who are suitable matches will be contacted by the branch within a couple days, and those who are not can send a follow-up email.
However, the SPCA is not able to contact every person who applies. Some are not good matches or a desired type of pet is not available.
"It’s been quite challenging over the last few weeks, I think any business that’s not getting back to people may be a reflection of the impact of COVID,” said Hogan. "So people's patience and understanding would be appreciated."
Hogan stressed that the SPCA wants everyone looking to adopt to have a positive experience. However, the number of animals in the Kelowna shelter is at a low, so not everyone will be able to find exactly the type of animal they’re looking for at this time.
To see what animals are currently available for adoption at the BCSPCA, click here.
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