Pet Affordability Crisis — Ottawa Humane Society Eyes Ways to Help Even More Animals
Nov. 23, 2023 — In a recent Ottawa Humane Society community survey, Ottawa’s residents identified the cost of caring for a pet as the most significant issue facing Ottawa’s pets and their people.
“We’re hearing many concerns about families being unable to afford even the basics of caring for a pet,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “When pet food and daily supplies are too costly, it means that other essential resources needed to take care of a pet, like training and veterinary care, are even further out of reach.”
While the OHS has always seen animals surrendered for cost, use of its pet food bank — launched during the pandemic — is increasing, as are calls for help in general. Without urgent action, the OHS believes more pets in Ottawa will end up homeless, and families heartbroken.
“We’ve listened to our community and we are taking steps to prevent more animals from suffering,” explained Miko. “We already have a number of supports for pet owners struggling to care for their pet, but there’s more we can do.” Miko cites OHS programs including its pet food bank, mobile spay/neuter service; and wellness clinics as some supports it currently offers struggling pet owners, noting demand has been high. “This survey makes it clear: we need to do more. To help more animals in our community, we have to help at both ends of the leash.”
The OHS survey also saw high support for any veterinary support the OHS might be able to provide to income-qualified owners. “Our community cares about keeping animals in the homes that love them,” said Miko.
Affordability was the most common concern voiced in the survey’s feedback, but it is not the only challenge facing Ottawa’s animals. The community also shared concerns about insufficient protections to guard animals from cruelty, the ongoing plight of homeless and feral cats, mistreatment and abandonment, increasing the awareness and accessibility of spay/neuter services, and enhancing care for animals sheltered at the OHS.
The full report is available on the OHS’s website.
Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca