The BC SPCA Prince Rupert is urging pet owners to reach out for help instead of leaving animals in the cold as abandonment cases increase in Prince Rupert, British Columbia. Local workers have recently discovered animals left in life‑threatening spots, including kittens found in garbage bags and 12 puppies — along with two young mothers — found abandoned on the side of a highway.
Joe Griffith, manager of the Prince Rupert BC SPCA animal centre, says the branch offers a pet food bank and a managed surrender program to help people who are struggling with rising living costs or a lack of pet‑friendly housing. These services are intended to keep pets safe and fed so owners do not feel they have to abandon them outdoors.
The BC SPCA notes that abandoning an animal can be an offence under provincial legislation (the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act) and may lead to charges. The City of Prince Rupert’s animal control page directs residents to the SPCA animal helpline for concerns about an animal’s welfare. To prevent the shelter from becoming overcrowded during the winter, the community is also encouraged to sign up for foster programs so residents can temporarily care for animals in their homes.
Anyone who sees an animal in trouble or needs to talk about surrendering a pet can call the provincial animal helpline at 1‑855‑622‑7722 (or the Prince Rupert centre at (778) 884‑1877). More information about helping, fostering or adopting is available on the BC SPCA website.
