The BC SPCA can seize animals if they believe the animal is in distress or has been abandoned.
If you want your animal returned
If the BC SPCA has taken custody of your animal and you want the animal returned, you must first ask the BC SPCA to review their decision. View the deadline below
If the review is unsuccessful (the animal will not be returned), you have 4 calendar days to appeal to BCFIRB.
This is required under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
If you’re only disputing costs
If the BC SPCA has taken custody of your animal and you only want to challenge the costs they’re asking you to pay, you don’t need to ask the BC SPCA to review.
Submit an appeal to BCFIRB within 4 calendar days of receiving the BC SPCA’s costs decision.
Deadline to request a review
If you miss the deadline, you will lose the chance to request a review or appeal.
The deadline to request a BC SPCA review depends on your situation:
- Abandoned animal (owner known): Request a review within 4 calendar days after receiving the BC SPCA’s notice
- Abandoned animal (owner unknown): Request a review within 4 calendar days after the BC SPCA takes the animal, even if you don’t receive a notice
- Distressed animal (owner known): Request a review within 14 calendar days after getting the BC SPCA’s notice
If you’re not sure which situation applies to you, contact the BC SPCA as soon as possible.
How to request a review
If the BC SPCA takes your animal into custody, they will give you a Notice of Disposition.
This notice explains:
- What the BC SPCA plans to do with your animal (for example, adoption, rehoming or euthanasia)
- How to request a review
- The deadline to make your request
Read the notice carefully and follow the instructions.
If you did not receive a notice
Contact the BC SPCA immediately to ask how to request a review.
You may not receive a notice if the BC SPCA doesn’t know you are the owner. You are still responsible for meeting the deadline.
If your review is unsuccessful
If the BC SPCA reviews your request but decides not to return the animal(s) or does not respond, you can file an appeal with BCFIRB:
- If the BC SPCA gives you a decision:
You have 4 calendar days from the date of their decision to file an appeal with BCFIRB - If they do not respond:
You may file an appeal 28 calendar days after you submitted your review request
If you need help
Have questions or need assistance? Contact BCFIRB staff right away.