N.B. SPCA responded to more than 4K complaints, fewer animal seizures in 2025

The New Brunswick SPCA responded to more than 4,000 complaints in 2025. (Josh Smith/CTV News Atlantic)

The New Brunswick SPCA says it responded to 4,795 complaints in 2025 – a four per cent increase over 2024 and the highest volume of calls in the organization’s history.

Executive director Lesley Rogers says there are several reasons for the increased demand for animal protection services.

“We continue to see the impact of factors such as the increased cost of living, difficulty finding pet-friendly housing and an aging population,” Rogers said in a news release. ​“This is exacerbated by the rise in illegal breeders who are operating without a valid Pet Establishment Licence and selling animals without Veterinary Certificates of Health.”

Rogers says animal protection officers conducted 222 pet establishment inspections in 2025. The inspections ensure animal breeders, shelters, kennels and pet retail stores meet the high standards of care for shelter, sanitation, food, water, veterinary care and overall animal welfare.

In 2025, the organization reported 21 cases in which the accused faced provincial or Criminal Code charges, and three related to dog control incidents. Court cases resulted in 23 convictions in 2025.

While the NBSPCA responded to a record number of complaints last year, it reported fewer domestic animal seizures, with a total of 1,111 pets seized from unsafe situations – about 100 fewer than in 2024. However, the number of agricultural animals removed from unsafe situations rose significantly, from 28 in 2024 to 50 in 2025.

The organization says it attributes the slight decline in domestic animal seizures in part to the success of its Happy Tails prevention program. The program is funded entirely from donations and provided nearly 1,300 pets from low-income families with essential veterinary care last year.

“While the need remains very real and very urgent, prevention and education are making a measurable difference,” said Rogers. ​“Happy Tails is helping families care for their pets before situations reach a crisis point, keeping animals safely with the people who love them whenever possible.”

The NBSPCA has 15 animal protection officers who have the authority to investigate, seize animals, lay charges, and recommend court orders to people suspected of animal abuse and cruelty.

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