Montreal SPCA urges end to rental rules that bar pets as abandoned animal tally rises

Montreal's primary animal welfare organization is calling for provincial reform of rental regulations that ban pets, as the number of surrendered animals has dramatically increased this month. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is currently handling more than twice the daily average of abandoned animals.

Normally, the SPCA takes in around 20 pets per day. However, since just before Canada Day, this number has at least doubled, with some days seeing as many as 70 surrendered animals. SPCA executive director Sylvie Bourbonnière stated that the vast majority of Montreal landlords either impose significant restrictions or completely refuse to rent to tenants with pets.

This situation not only makes finding housing difficult for pet owners but also places considerable pressure on the SPCA's staff, volunteers, and finances. The period around Canada Day is traditionally a busy time for moving in Montreal, often resulting in increased animal abandonment.

The SPCA's plea highlights a growing issue where housing availability clashes with the desire for pet ownership, leaving animal welfare organizations to manage the consequences. The organization hopes that by advocating for policy changes, they can alleviate the strain on their resources and provide better outcomes for abandoned animals.

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The vast majority of Montreal landlords impose major restrictions or refuse outright to rent to residents with pets.