A recent survey conducted by the Winnipeg Humane Society found that 50 percent of respondents have had trouble finding housing because of their pets.
Over half of Canadian households own pets, according to the WHS. However, only 20 to 40 percent of rental units in Manitoba accept pets.
The WHS interviewed 300 people, and of that group, half said they were unable to apply for accommodations because of no pet policies, while 12 percent had to rehome or give up their pets to rent housing.
The Winnipeg Humane Society’s Director of Animal Advocacy and Legal and Government Affairs, Krista Boryskavich, said that everyone deserves the chance ot experience the joy of having a pet, no matter whether a person rents or owns a home.
“The shortage of pet-inclusive housing disproportionately impacts groups such as seniors, youth, people with disabilities, and those facing major life changes,” said Boryskavich. “By embracing pet-inclusive housing, we can level the playing field and ensure that all Manitobans, regardless of housing status, can build a loving home, pets included.”
The WHS says that the findings underscore an urgent need for both policy and legislative change at both the municipal and provincial levels.
“When I was searching for apartments initially when moving to Winnipeg, the supply in my price range was cut down from -440 to -100 apartments once I filtered by units that allowed animals,” said one respondent.
“I put my senior dog down so I would be able to get an apartment… it has been years, but I still cry,” said another respondent.
The WHS is calling for changes and has made several recommendations to the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg, including focusing on increasing pet-friendly housing options and preventing landlords from denying accommodations to tenants with pets.
