People that have made appointments to adopt a pet will also be able to visit shelters

The SPCA says the shelters will only be open for emergency surrenders

Most people are no longer allowed to visit a BC SPCA shelter, for the time being

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — The SPCA is restricting access to its shelters in the province, effectively immediately.

The shelters will only be open for adoption appointments and emergency surrenders.

“In order to protect our staff, volunteers and members of the public during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become necessary for us to put these restrictions into effect,” BC SPCA CEO Craig Daniell says.

“However, staff and volunteers will continue to be on-site caring for the animals, and to provide emergency treatment and on-going care for animals who come into our custody through cruelty investigations.”

It says staff shortages and the need to limit people inside the shelters are behind the decision.

“We thank members of the public for their help in ensuring that we can direct our limited resources to the animals in most urgent need of care.”

You can still view the animals online according to Wednesday’s release.

“Maintaining the flow of animals into new, loving homes will enable us to continue helping new animals at risk, even with limited staffing,” Daniell says.