As the cost of living puts more pressure on households, some people are struggling to care for their pets, leaving thousands to surrender them to Montreal’s animal services. Animal services centre Proanima expects to take in more than 10,000 animals by the end of 2026, which is about 20 per cent above the city’s annual average over the past decade. Veterinarian Vincent Paradis says the increase is partly because more people know about the services available, including around-the-clock support, but he also points to the financial strain many Montrealers are facing. “People having a vulnerability situation also have animals; our service is like a social net for them,” said Paradis. That support can include temporarily taking in pets when their owners are unable to care for them. The shelter is located in Villeray-Saint-Michel-Parc Extension, and its mobile unit is also bringing help into the communities all over Montreal. Around 8,000 animals have already come into Proanima’s care since it took over animal services for all 19 Montreal boroughs in January. Executive director Anny Kirouac says keeping up with that demand takes a community effort, from recruiting volunteers to finding foster families. “To find the right people, to train them properly, to make sure that we do have people that are willing to give a second chance to all these animals that are looking for a new home,” said Kirouac. It’s not just domestic animals keeping staff busy. Proanima is also seeing a sharp increase in calls to help wildlife. Some calls involve injured animals, while others are for baby animals people believe are abandoned. “We do have more than two times the number of interventions we’ve done this year compared the last five years,” said Paradis. With so many animals needing help, Kirouac says prevention to support people, not just their pets, is key. “We work with social services, with tons of other non-profit organizations that do focus on the services to humans, but definitely our realities are linked to more than ever,” she said. Because when people can’t afford veterinary care, the consequences can also be felt by their animals. “In the next year, we might see an increase in the surrendering of animals that are in a way worse health situation,” said Paradis. For those considering adding a pet to their family, Proanima is encouraging them to start at the shelter where an adoption can also make room for another animal in need.
