The Nanaimo shelter's Home for the Holidays programme is part of a North American drive to find homes for animals over the Christmas season.

http://www.animalcenter.org/home4theholidays/

The programme started in San Diego in 1999. Now 1800 shelters and rescue group worldwide participate. It is sponsored by the Helen Woodward Animal Centre and the Iams company.

I think that most people would agree that any programme that clears cats and dogs out of SPCA facilities is worthwhile. Studies have shown that the return rate for animals is no higher at the Christmas season than at any other time of the year. Many Nanaimo SPCA animals have found new homes as a result of this programme. I feel that the programme is well worthwhile.

I am aware that the SPCA used to oppose Christmas season adoptions. It would appear that this was not based on facts and that no good reason exists for opposing them. Of course new applicants should be checked carefully, as they should be with every animal adopted all year round.