The BC SPGA is advocating for the introduction of an annual BC Pet Bonus to relieve the financial strain of the additional costs that pet care brings to families and individuals.
Many individuals and families find themselves burdened with financial strains that exacerbate the care challenges related to having and caring for pets.
The BC PET BONUS proposed initiative by the BC SPGA to the provincial government aims to offer financial help to pet owners by providing an annual Pet Bonus payment of $75 for smaller pets (under 10 lbs) and $105 for larger ones (over 10 lbs) to help with offsetting the rising expenses for the care of pets. The Pet Bonus may be reviewed and adjusted annually.The differentiation in bonus amounts based on pet size reflects an understanding of the varying costs associated with different types of animals, including food, supplies, and health care needs. The BC PET BONUS is not dependent on how many animals are in the family or individual's care.
An individual may have two dogs weighing over 10 pounds (lbs) together, for example, and would receive $105 BC Pet Bonus payment yearly. Likewise a family may have three small pets weighing less than 10 pounds (lbs) together and would receive a BC Pet Bonus payment of $75 yearly. One BC Pet Bonus payment would be provided yearly to qualifying families and individuals with pets.
This initiative is intended to be a meaningful gesture to address the rising costs of pet care and maintenance amid increasing living expenses and the higher costs of veterinary bills. By implementing this bonus policy makers can encourage responsible pet ownership and acknowledge the deep bond between people and their pets.
With 95% of Canadians viewing their pets as "family" according to surveys, it is concerning that British Columbians with pets receive no provincial assistance for pet-related expenses or unexpected bills and there are no tax breaks to support them.
It's time to recognize the importance of pets and provide the necessary support for people with pets in our province.