Pet owners who surrender their furry friends to Humane Society London & Middlesex will no longer have to consider paying a fee.
The Humane Society announced Tuesday that it is eliminating the voluntary fee for surrendering pets to its shelter. It said the fees have always been voluntary, but given the challenges many people are facing due to the pandemic, it decided to scrap the fees altogether to "help alleviate the financial concern of an already difficult decision."
The voluntary fees had been collected to help cover a portion of the costs of medical care and shelter surrendered pets would receive while they were in the custody of the Humane Society. On average, it costs about $600 for the Humane Society to care for a surrendered animal until it can be placed in a new home.
“HSLM is here for the community,” said Humane Society London & Middlesex Executive Director Steve Ryall. “We understand that life changes which may result in pet owners being unable to continue to care for their animals. We provide these individuals and families with a safe and judgement-free environment where they can bring their pets to be cared for and re-homed.”
While the fees are being eliminated, the Humane Society says it will still accept donations from people who surrender their pets.
"HSLM pet surrenders are scheduled by appointment only," the Humane Society said in a news release issued Tuesday. "Prior to scheduling the appointment, the HSLM Adoption team speaks with the pet owner to offer advice and suggestions that may assist them in keeping their animal. Additionally, informational brochures focused on pet house soiling, crate training, etc. are available on the HSLM website: www.hslm.ca/yourpet/."
