The BC SPCA wants to remind the public that it continues to support the City of Prince George and surrounding communities with important animal services, despite the closure of its physical North Cariboo community animal centre at the end of 2024.
“We know that the ongoing uncertainty with our economy and the rising cost of living has left a lot of animal owners in our community struggling. And we also know that when an animal’s family is struggling, that also puts them at risk of becoming vulnerable too,” explains Jamey Blair, the BC SPCA’s senior manager of Community Services. “When it comes to keeping families and their beloved pets together, the BC SPCA North Cariboo has been prioritizing two key areas of outreach support for the community: pet food bank programs and support for low income spay or neuter services.”
Blair adds that the BC SPCA continues to explore options for a physical facility and service provision opportunities so the Society can continue to act as a safety net for animals in the area, it is also looking at the services that help prevent guardians from needing to consider surrendering a loved pet. “So many of the people that reach out to us for pet food or supplies are just going through a temporary rough patch. They’re wonderful animal guardians who just need a little bit of help while they get back on their feet.”
Pet Food Bank Partnerships
When an animal guardian needs support for their pet, there is a strong possibility they are in need of some type of support services for themself as well. Recognizing this, the BC SPCA has focused on growing partnerships with other social support organizations in the area. There are now four organizations serving various social services needs in the community who can now also supply their clients with pet food, in partnership with the BC SPCA’s pet food bank program: Prince George Native Friendship Centre, Salvation Army Prince George, Positive Living North and Society of St. Vincent de Paul Prince George.
“I may be homeless, but I have my dog—a pit bull—by my side. No matter if we’re out on the streets, the happiness we share is something words can’t truly describe. Some people tell me I shouldn’t keep my dog with me, and even Bylaw officers have tried to take him away, but I stood my ground so we could stay together,” explains one grateful animal guardian and client of St. Vincent de Paul. “Neither of us has ever caused harm to anyone—my dog included. I rely on meals from St. Vincent every day, and any help with dog food is deeply appreciated. Màhsi’ choo (thank you) for any support you can give – From a guy with his pit bull, staying strong together.”
The BC SPCA also offers their pet food bank program through the Prince George Spay/Neuter Clinic. As medical procedures at the clinic are often a full team effort, appointments to pick up supplies are preferred and can be made by calling the BC SPCA’s Animal Helpline (1-855-622-7722). Drop-ins are welcome from Monday to Thursday from 1:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
“Like all our programming, the BC SPCA’s pet food banks are possible because of the generosity and kindness of community members who donate to the program. We are so grateful to the Prince George Community Foundation who recently offered the BC SPCA a $10,000 grant for supporting this important initiative, so even more animals can get the food and nutrition they need,” says Blair.
Community Spay & Neuter Program
Not only are spay and neuter procedures important for preventing accidental litters and minimizing the number of unwanted animals in a community, they are also important surgeries that have significant health and behavioural impacts for animals.
Unfortunately, access to pet food and supplies is not the only area where the economy is impacting animal guardians’ ability to care for their pets. The cost of a spay procedure at the BC SPCA’s Prince George Spay/Neuter Clinic starts at $285 for a dog and $185 for a cat – which can be prohibitive for someone who is experiencing financial hardship.
“The BC SPCA offers a community spay and neuter voucher program for low-income individuals, including those living in Prince George and surrounding areas,” offers Blair. “While the vouchers will likely not cover all costs associated with a community member spaying or neutering their pet through the BC SPCA, it’s just one more way that we’re trying to make this important procedure more accessible for those who need it.”
To apply for assistance from the BC SPCA’s community spay & neuter program or to get more information, please visit the dedicated page on the BC SPCA’s website.
The BC SPCA remains committed to delivering essential animal care services to Prince George and surrounding communities. Anyone needing help with an animal in the North Cariboo region, or who wishes to report concerns related to animal cruelty, is encouraged to contact the BC SPCA’s Animal Helpline: 1-855-622-7722 for assistance.