Proanima, a newly opened animal refuge in Montreal, is now taking in roughly twice the number of abandoned animals it handled in earlier months, averaging about 25 pets each day. The sharp increase, recorded in July 2026, coincides with the city’s peak moving season, when residents relocate and some choose to leave their animals behind.
The rise reflects a pattern observed in urban areas during periods of high residential turnover. As families and individuals move to new homes, the logistics of transporting pets, combined with rental restrictions and personal circumstances, often lead to the surrender of animals. Local officials have noted that this seasonal surge typically results in a noticeable uptick in shelter intakes, and Proanima’s recent figures align with that trend.
Proanima opened its doors only months ago, aiming to provide a safe haven for stray and abandoned animals across Montreal. The shelter’s staff now report that the current flow of approximately 25 animals per day is putting additional pressure on resources that were calibrated for a lower intake level. While the exact composition of the arrivals varies, the majority are cats and dogs, the species most commonly abandoned during relocation periods.
Shelter personnel are responding by extending their care routines and coordinating with local veterinary services to manage the larger caseload. The organization continues to rely on community donations and volunteer support to meet the heightened demand. As the moving season progresses, Proanima expects the intake rate to remain elevated, underscoring the ongoing challenge of providing adequate shelter space and care for the influx of displaced pets.