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Bring a new best friend Home for the Holidays: SPCA

Shelter animals are not 'damaged' or 'second-class' pets.
20647surreyChortyk

Last week I took my three dogs to have their photos taken with Santa. A bit embarrassing to admit, yes, but the proceeds went to the BC SPCA so it was all for a good cause. But the truth is that my three dogs – all adopted from the SPCA – are, in fact, like my “children.” They are an important part of my family and our home just wouldn’t be the same without them.

Right now, in SPCA branches across B.C., 4,000 beautiful, deserving animals are desperately waiting for a family to call their own. One of the biggest misconceptions about shelter animals is that they are somehow “damaged” or “second-class pets”. Nothing could be further from the truth. Animals are in shelters for the sole reason that their human companions couldn’t – or wouldn’t – take care of them. These smart, funny and affectionate animals have so much to offer and would love nothing more than to have a safe and happy home.

During December, the BC SPCA is raising awareness about pet adoption through its Home for the Holidays adoption drive. While the SPCA strongly discourages giving pets as gifts, if an individual or family has carefully considered their decision to bring a pet into their home, the holidays can be the perfect time to introduce a furry new friend to the family. People tend to take time off work and children are out of school, so there is more time to get to know a new family member.

All SPCA adoptable animals are available for viewing online or you can drop by your nearest BC SPCA branch to meet them in person. If you are able to give a homeless animal the greatest gift of all this season – a loving family to call their own – I hope your new best friend brings you as much joy and happiness as my three furry friends have brought my family.  Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season and a very happy new year!

Lorie Chortyk is general manager of community relations for the BC SPCA.