If you’re thinking about adopting a pet to help get you through the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kamloops SPCA says that’s probably a good idea.

However, Community Engagement Manager Hayley Bennett says to only adopt a pet if you’re willing to make a serious commitment to the animal.

“So if these are people that have been thinking for a while about adopting, this is a wonderful time,” she said. “You have lots of time to bond and train and be home with them. But I definitely wouldn’t encourage anybody who’s looking to do it on a whim because they will be with you forever.”

Bennett says the SPCA has seen an uptick in adoptions in recent weeks, which has helped clear space in both the shelters and some foster homes in Kamloops and around the province.

“We’re actually at the point where we’ve adopted so many animals out that now we’re looking at the animals that are in our foster care to now really try to adopt all of them out as long as they’re in good health and behaviour so that we can continue making more space,” Bennett added.

She says while people are home now and able to give the animal a lot of attention, they’ll have to have a plan to keep that up when things eventually return to normal in the future.

“This is a forever commitment, and I always like to remind people too that the adoption fee may be the smallest fee you pay for this animal over their lifetime,” Bennett added.

“Only do this if you’re really invested and looking at it as a long time family member. If so, then absolutely consider it.”