As the affordability crisis continues to challenge residents in Ontario, animal welfare organizations are increasingly feeling the strain. The Niagara SPCA and Humane Society recently reported a staggering case of rescuing 76 abandoned cats within just four days, leaving staff and volunteers overwhelmed.
“We are at capacity,” said Amelia Canto, the organization's CEO, emphasizing the fragile situation they are in, which can change at any moment. Some of the cats were discovered in dire conditions—found in boxes, crates, and even Tupperware containers across locations in Niagara Falls and Welland.
In her account of the organization’s recent rescue efforts, Canto mentioned a heart-wrenching incident where nine cats were found abandoned in a box due to an eviction. She also highlighted another case that gained attention on social media, involving 14 female cats placed in a wire crate with a note indicating that their owner could no longer care for them. This situation drew a significant response from the community, resulting in much-needed donations of food and funds.
Canto pointed out that rising housing issues and increasing living costs are severely affecting pet ownership. “It’s really challenging for people right now to keep their pets fed and have supplies,” she explained, noting that many families are forced to make difficult choices regarding their animals.
The emotional toll on staff and volunteers is significant. Canto mentioned "compassion fatigue," a state many in the animal welfare field experience due to the continuous exposure to animal suffering. “The people who are here are very passionate about what they do,” she said, expressing concerns for her team's well-being.
Community members, such as Kristina Pocrnic, owner of Ruffin's Pet Centre in Welland, have stepped up to provide support. Pocrnic delivered two cases of kitten milk replacement to the SPCA and acknowledged that Niagara boasts a strong animal-loving community that rallies for support in challenging times. “We’re all struggling in one way or another,” she noted, stressing the importance of understanding the complex circumstances that lead to pet abandonment.
Pocrnic observed a shift in consumer behavior within the past year at her store. “People are pulling back on luxury items and focusing on essentials,” she remarked, indicating a broader trend of economic challenges affecting pet care. She aims to accommodate customers who need to maintain quality care for their pets while remaining budget-conscious.
Animal welfare organizations across Ontario are playing a crucial role in addressing these issues, as abandonment rates rise due to economic hardships. Staff at the Toronto Humane Society noted they are facing similar challenges but not to the same degree. Melissa Shupak, director of animal sheltering, expressed concern about the pressure families face related to cost of living and accessible care, and she highlighted the need for a shift in how the community perceives seeking assistance.
Shupak emphasized that some people hesitate to ask for help due to fears of judgment, stating, “We want to work with families and keep them together.” The goal of both the Niagara SPCA and Toronto Humane Society is to support families in need instead of stigmatizing them.
To combat these growing concerns, both organizations advocate for open communication regarding pet ownership challenges. Community outreach is viewed as essential: “A conversation goes a long way,” noted Pocrnic, encouraging individuals to seek help and share their stories.
Furthermore, the impact of pet companionship is stressed by advocates who highlight the emotional and mental support that pets provide. Canto mentioned that the Niagara SPCA and Humane Society plans to offer low-cost spay and neuter services and is opening a new veterinary wellness clinic to help address the financial barriers of pet care.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Humane Society offers programs like a pet food bank, accessible veterinary care, and temporary rehoming services to support pet guardians. Both organizations are actively seeking monetary and non-monetary donations, including pet food and supplies, to aid their efforts in caring for the animals rescued.
Upcoming community events include a pet adoption event at Pocrnic’s store and a significant celebration called Paws in the Park at the Toronto Humane Society’s headquarters. These events aim to engage the community in supporting animal welfare initiatives.
