Calgary is taking new steps to address a growing challenge for renters with animals.
On Wednesday, the City of Calgary and the Calgary Humane Society launched a joint initiative to increase pet‑inclusive housing in response to rising pet surrenders linked to limited rental options.
Calgary Humane Society says more than 500 pets are surrendered each year because owners can’t find housing that allows animals.
While over half of Calgarians own pets, fewer than 10 per cent of affordable rentals are pet friendly. It’s a gap that hits low‑income residents, seniors, and newcomers especially hard.
For people like Paul Moores, who has been homeless for years, the lack of pet‑friendly options has been devastating. His dog Lenni is his constant companion, but finding a place that will take them both has felt impossible.
“I have basically given up even looking… It’s getting worse,” he said.
The new initiative includes emergency pet boarding for people facing housing insecurity, a tenant toolkit to help renters navigate the market, and a landlord toolkit with guidance on pet policies and risk mitigation.
Calgary Humane Society executive director Carrie Fritz says pet owners often make ideal tenants.
“They stay longer, they are grateful to be in that property… and they communicate with you,” Fritz says.
City housing chief Reid Hendry says the city will begin incentivizing pet‑friendly housing through its grant programs. Only 5 per cent of apartment building landlords report allowing pets, and both organizations hope to raise this number.
For Moores, the stakes are personal.
“So many people are happy to greet this guy and it makes my day… I can’t imagine that people would not have that place in their heart for a pet,” he said.
The Calgary Humane Society in Calgary, Alta., on Wednesday, March 18, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh THE CANADIAN PRESS
Keep it Factual
Add CityNews Calgary as a trusted source on Google to see more local stories from us.
