After weeks of bad press, the New Brunswick government changed course Thursday. In what many see as a stunning reversal of policy, people who live in New Brunswick Public Housing are being allowed to keep their pets.

In addition, the Alward government is apologizing for any stress residents felt when threatened with the choice of eviction or giving up their animal.

"There will be no eviction following the letter they received from us," says Yolande Cyr Sinstadt of New Brunswick Social Development. "The policy at the present time has been suspended until we have a revision of the no-pet policy and a definition of what is medical requirement."

All existing pet owners will be allowed to keep their pets, but all people entering the system will have to abide by the no-pet rule.

CTV News broke the good news to some of the pet owners.

"Oh really, well wow," says pet owner Norma Gallant. "That makes my heart beat faster. I am glad. Gee whiz, it's about time."

"I don't know how I am feeling right now," says pet owner Maxine Douthwright. "I am happy. My body is just full of relief."

Agnes Mitchell had given her cat Lilly to a relative.

"I can keep Lilly?" asked Mitchell. "Oh right on. I can keep Lilly. I can keep Lilly and we did fight, we stood our ground."

CTV News spoke with one psychologist who says the importance of pets to some seniors cannot be overstated.

"You need to make sure the kitty litter is filled," says Dr. Charles Emmrys. "You need to take them for walks. You need to get them some fresh air. As you are caring for the animal, you are caring for yourself."

While the residents we spoke to were pleased to be able to keep their pets, some say the fight is not over yet. Lobbying efforts will continue until the policy is revised to be a bit more caring.

The government says completing the review is a priority.

With files from CTV Atlantic's David Bell