Financial strains mean more pets left at shelters in B.C.

The B.C. charity Paws for Hope Animal Foundation says so many people need help paying their vet bills, the organization is forced to turn down about 150 requests every month.

For Alisa Nelson, her dog Neetschy is a lifeline.

“She’s my world. She’s a good friend,” Nelson said.

Nelson said her shepherd-husky mix helps her get through many daily health challenges.

“I suffer with fibromyalgia so my body is in constant pain all the time,” Nelson explained.

“She (Neetschy) forces me to get up and out of bed all the time,” she said.

But last year, Neetschy became sick and needed an emergency vet visit.

The bill was $500, something Nelson, who is on a disability income, couldn’t afford.