Workers at B.C. SPCA facilities across the Lower Mainland have voted 97.5 per cent in favour of strike action, according to the union representing more than 110 employees. In a news release Monday, CUPE 1622 said the vote follows months of bargaining over fair wages and improved mental health benefits after the collective agreement expired in December 2025. “Our members are proud of the work they do to protect vulnerable animals,” union president Annabelle van Rikxoort said in the release. “They care deeply about the animals in their care, but many are struggling to afford the everyday basics in the communities they serve. This vote shows that members are united in their determination to reach a fair agreement that recognizes the value of their work.” The union said workers are also calling for workplace improvements aimed at addressing burnout and helping retain experienced staff. “Animal welfare workers regularly deal with neglected, injured, abused and abandoned animals. They see difficult situations that most people never have to witness and they do everything they can to help animals recover and find safe homes. This work can be rewarding but it can also take a toll,” said van Rikxoort. “Our members are seeking fair compensation and workplace supports that recognize these realities and help ensure experienced staff can continue providing the high quality of care animals deserve.” CUPE 1622 said it has requested mediation through the B.C. Labour Relations Board in an effort to advance negotiations. The union said it remains focused on reaching an agreement and avoiding any disruptions to animal care services. “Strike action is always a last resort,” said van Rikxoort. “We believe the best place to reach a deal is at the bargaining table, but to get there, both parties need to be willing to work toward a resolution.” In a statement to CTV News, the B.C. SPCA said it is aware CUPE 1622 members recently voted in favour of strike action after negotiations reached an impasse and that the parties are working to identify dates for further discussions. “The B.C. SPCA recognizes that our work to support vulnerable animals and strengthen animal welfare would not be possible without all our dedicated employees and volunteers across the province,” the statement reads. “We remain committed to engaging in these discussions as we firmly believe that negotiating a collective agreement that is fair, equitable and reasonable is in the best interests of the B.C. SPCA staff and supporters, the animals and communities we serve.” The organization said CUPE 1622 represents about 20 per cent of its provincial workforce, with employees working in a variety of positions across the Lower Mainland. “During negotiations, our operational focus is to maintain access to important animal welfare services for vulnerable animals and their guardians while minimizing impacts on other B.C. SPCA teams or service provision,” the statement continued. The B.C. SPCA added that all of their locations remain open with no current changes to services or programs.
