Animal shelters overwhelmed with surrendered pets [Video]

Animal shelters in Calgary are facing a crisis as the number of people surrendering pets continues to rise.

The Calgary Humane Society is currently at capacity, with more than 300 animals in its care and a list of 150 to 200 more waiting to be surrendered.

The agency has instituted a triage program for intake.

“We just don’t necessarily have the space for everybody who needs to surrender because the demand on our services is so high,” said Anna-Lee Fitzsimmons, communications manager for the Calgary Humane Society.

“Every kennel is typically full. Usually here, we don’t have a lot of kennels, just kind of open and ready and waiting for people because of the volume and the need that’s in the community right now.”

The surge in pet surrenders is primarily driven by rising inflation and housing costs, with many landlords now refusing to allow pets in their rental properties.

“What we’re seeing, what’s growing in Calgary, particularly with the housing market, is …