BC SPCA pet food banks struggle to keep up with rising demand | 24CA News
An enhance in demand and an early begin to the wildfire season in British Columbia have the BC SPCA struggling to inventory its pet meals banks.
When some residents of Fort St. John had been evacuated final week, together with SPCA employees and animals of their care, provides had been diverted and delivered to the world to help guardians who had been displaced.
“When guardians and their pets are evacuated due to a natural disaster like wildfires or floods, they can be away from their homes for weeks at a time. They often rely on the BC SPCA’s pet food banks for food and supplies until they are allowed to return,” mentioned BC SPCA outreach specialist Diane Waters.
The non-profit has additionally seen elevated demand all through the province over the previous few months, particularly for many who proceed to grapple with inflation. Waters mentioned the BC SPCA is consistently getting requests for pet meals and provides.
“The number of organizations we are currently supporting has risen from 139 to 155,” Waters mentioned.
One group that has seen a surge in demand is Victoria. Since 2022, requests by means of the pet meals financial institution program there have elevated by over 25 per cent.
“The current food security landscape in our community and rising costs of living have had an impact. The BC SPCA’s efforts to increase awareness of the program have also meant more people are reaching out for help,” mentioned Breanne Beckett, senior supervisor of animal care companies in Victoria.
In 2022, the BC SPCA offered 532,000 meals by means of pet meals banks. The group says it welcomes donations of unopened pet meals.
“Our biggest need right now is dry and wet cat food and cat litter,” Waters mentioned.
The BC SPCA can also be in search of volunteers to help with the gathering and distribution of pet meals and provides.
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