BC SPCA to provide animal shelter and control services in Richmond as shelter construction set to begin
27 November 2020
The City of Richmond has entered into an agreement with the BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA) for the operation of its animal shelter and animal control services commencing February 1, 2021.
The agreement coincides with the start of construction of the new Richmond Animal Shelter to replace the existing facility at 12071 No. 5 Road. Because the new facility will be built on the same site, the existing shelter will close from next spring until construction is complete in two years.
“Continuity of care and service for stray, abandoned and in-need animals in our community is important, especially during this construction phase,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “The BC SPCA brings considerable experience, expertise and resources to the City in the area of humane and respectful animal welfare and the City looks forward to working with them.”
Under the agreement, the BC SPCA will receive and care for animals in Richmond and relocate them to its Vancouver facility at 1205 East 7th Avenue where they will be processed and cared for while awaiting their owners or rehoming. It will also continue to operate its Richmond Education and Adoption Centre at 7791 Steveston Highway.
The BC SPCA supports an enhanced quality of life and ethical treatment for animals. It also follows the Canadian Standards of Care Guidelines for all animals in its care.
The BC SPCA will replace the Regional Animal Protection Society (RAPS) which has supported the community by taking responsibility for the shelter and animal control throughout the City since 2017. Its existing contract ends on January 31, 2021.
Along with shelter services, the City agreement will see the province-wide organization take over animal control services in Richmond. Starting February 1, 2021, BC SPCA officers will provide animal control from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm daily, maintaining current hours of service.
Contact information for animal services in the City remains unchanged at this time. Anyone wishing to find a lost pet, report a dog off-leash or running at large, or injured or dead animals should continue to call RAPS at 604-275-2036. For enquiries related to animal regulations, dog licensing and fees, contact Community Bylaws at 604-276-4345.
The RAPS animal hospital, cat shelter and thrift stores are operated directly by the Society and not a part of its contract with the City. Therefore, they are not impacted by this agreement.