Animal protection agency introduces assistance program for pet owners with low income

New Brunswick’s animal protection agency, the New Brunswick SPCA, has recently launched a new program called the Happy Tails Fund. This initiative aims to increase access to spay and neuter surgeries for low-income pet families who may be struggling to afford basic veterinary care. The program is funded by the late June Hooper and the province, and it is designed to alleviate financial pressures that have been exacerbated by the pandemic and record-breaking inflation.

Lesley Rogers, the executive director of the New Brunswick SPCA, emphasized that the program targets pet owners who are facing challenges such as difficulty finding pet-friendly housing, job loss, or health issues. These individuals often find themselves in a position where they need assistance to care for their beloved pets. By providing more access to spay and neuter surgeries, the program aims to reduce the number of animals ending up in shelters and prevent owners from becoming overwhelmed with too many pets to care for.

Dr. Sara Pridham, who operates Stoneybrook Veterinary Services near Saint John, highlighted the high demand for spay and neuter surgeries. Her clinic, along with three others – Moncton Veterinary Walk-in and Urgent Care, Greater Saint John Veterinary Walk-in and Urgent Care, and Woodstock Veterinary Clinic – are participating in the program. Dr. Pridham mentioned that her clinic receives daily inquiries about low-cost spay and neuter services, indicating a growing need for population control to address the surplus of cats and limited available homes.

The impact of the program is already being felt by shelters across the province, such as the Oromocto and Area SPCA and the Miramichi SPCA. These shelters are experiencing an influx of cats, with some reaching capacity and struggling financially. The situation has become so dire that some shelters are unable to accept new animals, leading to emotional strain on staff and the possibility of shutting down operations.

The overwhelming demand for veterinary care has also taken a toll on veterinarians, with many feeling pressured to turn away clients due to the high volume of cases and rising costs of care. Dr. Pridham noted that veterinarians are leaving the profession due to the stress and financial constraints associated with providing essential services to pet owners in need. The New Brunswick SPCA’s program aims to address these challenges by offering coverage for emergency vet care in its second phase, ensuring that pet owners do not have to surrender their animals due to financial constraints.

In conclusion, the Happy Tails Fund launched by the New Brunswick SPCA is a crucial initiative that seeks to support low-income pet families, reduce the number of unwanted pets in shelters, and alleviate the financial burden on veterinarians. By providing access to spay and neuter surgeries and emergency vet care, the program aims to keep pets with their owners and prevent unnecessary surrenders. This collaborative effort between the SPCA, veterinarians, and the community is essential in promoting responsible pet ownership and ensuring the well-being of animals in New Brunswick.