Mandatory pet surrendering fee eliminated

The P.E.I. Humane Society is eliminating its mandatory fees for surrendering owned pets in hopes of reducing the number of abandoned pets and humane cases in the province.

Last year 665 stray animals were brought to the shelter.

Until recently, pet owners were required to pay $25 per animal, to a maximum of $60 to surrender pets to the Humane Society. The fee was meant to cover one day of basic care. Going forward, to assist owners who struggle financially, payment of the fee will be voluntary.

Owners can call the shelter at (902)892-1190, Ext 21, to make an appointment to surrender a pet at the shelter, 309 Sherwood Road, Charlottetown, during regular business hours. Starting on Wednesday, May 30, and on the fourth Wednesday of every month thereafter, pet owners living in or west of Summerside can also surrender pets in Richmond, at the Ralph W. MacLellan Sports Centre parking lot. Pet owners must call the shelter in advance to arrange to surrender a companion animal in Richmond. Staff will be in attendance there by 10 a.m. on the appointed dates.

“Giving up a pet is a difficult decision and PEIHS staff provide a judgement-free environment with the goal of healthy outcomes for companion animals in need,” noted Jennifer Harkness, development manager for the P.E.I. Humane Society.

The surrendering process takes about 30 minutes to complete and staff recommends that an owner attend and provide information that they can use in making a plan for the pet. For low income pet owners needing help with spaying or neutering, the Humane Society suggests organizations like SpayAid P.E.I. (www.spayaidpei. com) may be able to provide assistance.

For owners who need to rehome a pet due to health or behaviour issues, such as aggression, inappropriate elimination or separation anxiety, the PEIHS recommends they speak to a veterinarian first.