All Paws on Deck: The Oromocto SPCA Projects More Surrenders After a Record-Breaking Year

The Oromocto SPCA has taken to the media to speak about the record-breaking year they have had. Olivia Cannatella, a member of staff at the Oromocto location recently spoke to CBC about how they have taken in over 800 animals so far, which is 200 more than what they had last year. This spike in number is leading them to predict they will reach at least 1000 animal surrenders by the end of 2023, putting them over 400 animals than they had in 2022.

Where is this sudden increase coming from? One issue as many animal activists know that has been a problem for years is unneutered and stray cats. Cats outnumber, if not triple, all other animals at the SPCA location. This is because cats can have up to nine kittens in one litter alone and can become pregnant up to five times in one year. In just the past month, the facility welcomed a staggering 15 new feline residents.

Additionally, the housing and economic challenges currently gripping Canadians have compounded the issue, as escalating expenses, including gas, groceries, and overall living costs, have left many struggling to adequately care for their beloved pets. In response, the Oromocto SPCA has established a pet food bank, generously stocked by local donations, to provide pet owners with essential supplies such as food and litter, helping to alleviate the financial burden.

The ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has also played a pivotal role in the surge of animal surrenders. The introduction of isolation measures in March 2020 left numerous pet owners, particularly those with dogs, grappling with the inability to fulfill their furry companions’ physical needs, such as regular walks and outdoor playtime. This profound sense of guilt eventually led many to relinquish their cherished pets to the SPCA, in the hope that these animals would find better care.

Moreover, the pandemic brought forth another pressing concern: socialization, or the lack thereof. With increased free time and a desire for companionship, many individuals opted to adopt puppies during lockdowns. However, this well-intentioned decision often lacked the necessary preparation and foresight. Puppies, despite their undeniable charm, demand extensive training, research, and crucially, socialization with both humans and fellow canines. The pandemic deprived them of this essential interaction during their sensitive developmental period, which typically occurs between the ages of 3 and 14 weeks. This lack of socialization can result in dogs displaying either extreme anxiety around strangers and separation anxiety from their owners or, more alarmingly, aggression. The Oromocto SPCA has witnessed an uptick in the latter, with these dogs reaching sexual maturity without the necessary social skills, rendering them territorial and hostile toward others. This poses a significant danger to other animals and children.

Despite the diverse range of challenges presented by each animal entering their doors, the dedicated staff at the Oromocto SPCA consistently goes above and beyond to provide the best care possible. You too can make a difference by showing your support through various means, including visiting their facility, making financial contributions, donating food and litter, and following and endorsing their mission across social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Together, we can help the Oromocto SPCA continue its vital work in caring for and rehabilitating these animals in need.