I’ve been to many pet stores over the years and always leave upset and frustrated. Animals confined to tiny cages, bright lights beating down upon them, patrons tapping on the glass, and no escape. The Jungle Pet store in Kamloops that recently closed its doors is a prime example of staff and owner negligence, deplorably lacking in the basics of animal care.

In previous correspondence with me, BC SPCA Manager of Education, Craig Naherniak stated that “most reputable stores are members of the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council which outlines protocols for animal care.” He went on to further say “we would want to ensure that they provide for enrichment as well as stress reducing housing for small animals.” Clearly, not in this case. He also mentioned that “if animals are in distress, SPCA staff will investigate on a complaint basis.” More hollow words. Rabbits, rodents, and reptiles have been notoriously overlooked by this Society, yet there are always promises, but “with limited resources we can only do so much.”

Sure, we understand.

Carmina Gooch
North Vancouver