In a surprise last-minute announcement the day before the election, Independent Vancouver Mayoral candidate Shauna Sylvester says if elected mayor she will allow pets in new purpose-built residents on city lands.

“For many of us, pets are an important part of our lives and often become a part of our families. Throughout this campaign, I’ve met so many people who love their pets and rely on them for so much more than companionship,” said Sylvester in a release.

“We have a problem with isolation in this city, among seniors, especially those in the LGBTQ2S+ community. I have personally met with people who have stated that their mental health and well-being relies on them being allowed to keep their pets while having an affordable place to live.”

In 2017, over 1,700 pets were surrendered to the BC SPCA due to housing-related issues.

If elected Mayor, Sylvester says she will enact the following measures:

Ensuring that new purpose-built rentals on city land are pet-friendly

Working with property owners to help the city become more pet-friendly

Eliot Galán of PetsOkBC says she fully supports Sylvester’s announcement. PetsOkBC advocates for ending explicit pet restrictions in housing across BC.

“It is beyond refreshing to finally hear a mayoral candidate recognize the urgent need for pet friendly housing,” said Galán. “I am grateful to Shauna for her commitment to do everything within her power to improve the lives of families with pets.”

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