In the event of an emergency, the BC SPCA is here to support pet guardians and keep animals safe. Our emergency services include:
- Information and Support for Evacuees with Pets via the BC SPCA Animal Helpline 1-855-622-7722 and at ESS Reception Centres (look for us at the pet care booth)
- Emergency Pet Boarding (free temporary pet care for those displaced by natural disasters, escaping interpersonal violence or who are hospitalization with no one to care for their pet).
- Community Animal Care Services (lost/stray animal reunification and rehoming of unclaimed pets during emergencies)
The BC SPCA Animal Helpline 1-855-622-7722 is the first point of contact for anyone inquiring about emergency services. Our emergency response is funded through public donations.
Evacuee Support & Guidance
Not sure where to turn for help for your animal? The SPCA offers local information to evacuated pet guardians through our Animal Helpline and at pet care booths at local Emergency Social Services (ESS) reception centres. We can:
- Provide you with pet food, crates, dishes, leashes and collars, pet toys and other supplies;
- Register your pet and connect you with free, temporary accommodation for your animal at an SPCA shelter, partner facility or in an SPCA foster home;
- Help coordinate veterinary care – emergency and/or non-emergency.
Emergency Boarding
This free service is available (as space permits) for pets of individuals displaced by natural disasters or impacted by some other life emergency. In addition to victims of wildfires, floods and other natural disasters, the program is available for individuals escaping interpersonal violence or who may be hospitalized with no one to care for their pet.
Animals are sheltered at SPCA facilities or in specialized SPCA foster homes. To access this service, please contact your local BC SPCA branch or the BC SPCA Animal Helpline 1-855-622-7722.
Rehoming and Stray Animal Reunification
The BC SPCA shelters stray and abandoned animals in times of emergency and provides identification and reunification services for lost pets through the BC Pet Registry and its community animal centres.
Pet Food Bank
Our pet food banks are located across B.C. to provide pet food and supplies for low-income pet guardians and in cases of emergency. The BC SPCA pop-up shelters will also provide food to pet guardians who are evacuating their city in the case of an emergency.
Check your local SPCA or food bank for more information.
Animal Rescue Services
During an emergency, the BC SPCA works with local emergency agencies to deploy animal protection officers behind evacuation lines as needed to remove animals or provide food and care for animals sheltering in place.
Other resources:
- Download our pet emergency checklist.
- Register your pet with BC Pet Registry.
- How to help: Learn about becoming a volunteer.
- How to help: Learn about our foster care program.