Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, Author at Ontario SPCA

Pocket pets like rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters thrive on enrichment, just like larger animals. At the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, we understand the importance of providing a stimulating environment for our furry friends. From socializing and brushing/grooming sessions, to an array of toys, we ensure that every pocket pet in our care experiences a fulfilling life while awaiting their forever home.

The importance of enrichment

Socializing is more than just companionship; it’s a vital aspect of pocket pet care. The animal care teams and volunteers at our 13 animal centres across the province devote time to interact with each animal, offering cuddles, gentle handling, and positive reinforcement. These interactions not only provide mental stimulation, but also help build trust and confidence, which is crucial for their overall well-being.

Enrichment tips

Regular brushing and grooming sessions are not only pampering sessions, but are also essential for maintaining the health and hygiene of our pocket pets. Each animal in the care of the Ontario SPCA receives grooming to remove loose fur, prevent matting, and to ensure they look and feel their best. This grooming routine is also an opportunity for bonding and provides sensory stimulation through gentle touch.

Another form of enrichment used by the team is through toys. Toys are tools for mental and physical exercise. From chew toys for rabbits and guinea pigs to tunnels, balls, and puzzles, our pocket pets are given plenty of options! These toys encourage natural behaviours, such as chewing, digging, and problem-solving, keeping their minds sharp and boredom at bay.

Providing enrichment for your pocket pets can be easily accomplished with items you may already have around your home.  Paper towel rolls and paper bags can be stuffed with hay or treats. Cardboard boxes can become hiding places or tunnels.

Enrichment isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for animals. It promotes physical and mental well-being, reduces stress, and prevents behavioural issues. Looking to adopt? Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to view our animals available for adoption!

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.

How does winter impact your dog’s grooming routine? In Canada’s harsh winters, exposure to cold air and snow can cause dry, itchy skin, cracked paws or discomfort during walks. In this blog, we share key tips to care for your dog’s coat, paws and skin, during the winter months.

Winter grooming

Grooming is an important part of keeping your dog’s coat, skin, and paws healthy during the winter. You’ll need to give special care to grooming their paws. If your dog has long hair, trim the hair between the paw pads and around the paws. This serves several functions: it minimizes painful ice balls from forming on your dog’s paws; it reduces the amount of road salt and de-icing chemicals that are picked up; and it makes it easier for you to clean and apply moisturizing balm to your dog’s paws after your walks.

Don’t forget to keep your dog’s nails trimmed all year round, including the winter. Long nails tend to splay your dog’s paws while walking, making it easier for irritants to get between paw pads.

As for your dog’s skin, brushing their coat on a regular basis will help get rid of dead hair, distribute natural oils throughout the coat, and help invigorate the skin.

Keep paws clean

Thoroughly wash and dry your dog’s paws after taking them for a walk, making sure to also clean the area between their toes. This gets off any de-icing chemicals that may be on your dog’s paws. Use this opportunity to inspect your dog’s paws for any cracks or redness. If you have any concerns about your dog’s paws, reach out to your veterinarian for guidance. Watch our step by step video for tips on keeping your dog’s paws clean.

Paw protectors

Dog boots can help minimize contact between your dog’s feet and harmful chemicals. Another option is to use paw balm to create a protective layer on your dog’s paw pads. You should still wash your dog’s paws after walks to make sure your pooch doesn’t accidentally lick any chemicals left on their paws. Watch our video for tips on introducing your dog to winter boots.

We all know how rough winter can be, so we hope these tips help minimize the impact the cold weather and icy conditions will have on your dog!

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.

Cupcake Day for the Ontario SPCA is all about helping animals in need, and we are calling on animal lovers in Ontario to dust off their aprons, pre-heat their ovens, and bake the world a batter place for animals in need across the province!

So, gather your ingredients, and let’s whip up some treats that will have tails wagging and cats purring!

Tailored treats

The beauty of homemade treats lies in their simplicity. You have control over the ingredients, allowing you to prioritize your pet’s health and flavour preferences. Opt for wholesome ingredients like flour, oats, peanut butter (without xylitol), and unsweetened applesauce. These basics provide a nutritious foundation for your treats.

Experiment with different flavours, such as adding shredded carrots, blueberries, or even a dash of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Consider consulting your veterinarian to ensure the chosen ingredients align with your dog’s health requirements.

Make baking fun for the whole family

Baking treats for your furry friend is a fun and rewarding process. Get the whole family involved –your canine companion might even enjoy watching the baking magic happen! Keep in mind that dogs and cats have a heightened sense of smell, so the aroma of fresh treats baking in the oven is sure to have them eagerly awaiting the final product.

Selecting shape and size

Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes that add an extra touch of excitement to your dog’s treats. Whether it’s bone-shaped, paw-printed, or heart-shaped, the visual appeal adds a delightful element to snack time. Be mindful of the treat size, ensuring it’s appropriate for your dog’s breed and size.

Storage and enjoyment

Once your homemade treats are ready, allow them to cool completely before serving. Store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Most importantly, treat time becomes a bonding experience between you and your pet, reinforcing your connection and showing them the love, they deserve. So, show the furry friends in your life, and those special animals in the lives of your donors, how much you appreciate them and bake a difference this Cupcake Day!

If your companion animal tends to gain a little extra weight during the winter season, this blog is for you! The best thing you can do is to make sure your animal is getting enough exercise and that they are not exceeding their daily caloric requirements. In other words, eating more than they need.

Here are some other helpful tips to help prevent your furry friend’s weight gain this winter.

Create an exercise plan

This can include activities, games and exercises that can be done both indoors and outside.
Aim for shorter, more frequent walks with your dog.
On days when it is too cold for outdoor activities, enjoy indoor games like tug-of-war and fetch.
Make it fun! The more excited you are, the more excited your furry friend will be to join you.

Read our blog for tips on exercising pets during winter months.

Reduce your furry friend’s treat intake

It can be tempting to treat your animal more frequently during the winter months, but this is not the healthiest choice since treats are usually higher in sugars and fats than regular dog or cat food.

By reducing the amount of treats your furry friend receives, you can help your animal maintain a healthy weight. The extra calories can add up! Remember that your companion animal appreciates a pat on the head or praise as much as the treats.

Understand what you’re feeding and how much to feed

If your furry friend tends to be less active during the winter months, talk to your veterinarian. Together, you can ensure your animal is consuming the proper type and amount of food and adjust their diet accordingly.

More tips to keep in mind

While enjoying the outdoors together, be mindful of your companion animal’s whereabouts and comfort. Watch for signs that they may be getting cold and keep them on a leash to help prevent them from getting lost, especially during extreme weather when visibility is low.

Be sure to clean and dry your furry friend’s feet once back inside to ensure there is no ice or salt stuck in their pads.

Get outside and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery with your companion animal!

Wow, can you believe it’s 2026 already?! What possibilities could this new year hold? While you’re figuring that out, here are some pet parenting tips to consider for your first year with your beloved pet.

Proper introductions

Introducing a new animal into your home is a big adjustment for you and your furry friend, and you’ll want to ensure you get off on the right paw! Check out some tips for your first week home with your newly adopted pet.

If you already have an animal at home, you’ll want to ensure that they get along with your new furry family member. Learn more about cat-to-cat introductions and cat-to-dog instructions.

Schedule annual vaccinations now

It’s time for annual spring checkups; take a minute to call your vet and book the appointment. Schedule it (with reminders) in your calendar so you don’t forget.

Animals adopted from the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society are already spay/neutered, microchipped and as up to date on vaccinations as they can be in their time with us (it’s important to double check with your family veterinarian if they require any booster vaccines). Plus, we send them home with food from Royal Canin to help ensure a smooth transition.

Plan vacations ahead

If you know you are planning to take a trip during the spring or summer months, start looking for a reputable pet-sitter or kennel now and book early to secure your spot. Learn more about how to choose a pet sitter.

Alternatively, if you plan on bringing Fluffy with you, read up on some pet travel safety tips.

Consider pet insurance

Life is unpredictable and emergencies can happen. Just like us, our furry friends can get sick or injured unexpectedly. Those unforeseen expenses can put a huge strain on your budget. Pet insurance can help cover those unforeseen veterinary bills and help your furry friends stay healthy.

Ontario SPCA & Humane Society Pet Insurance offered by Fetch is one option.

Choose the right diet

Consult your animal’s veterinarian for the right food choice for your pet’s specific dietary needs. Some companies, such as Royal Canin, offer subscription services so that you won’t have to worry about running out!

With these tips in mind, we hope you have a great start to your new year with your newly adopted pet!

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.

As pet parents, we want nothing more than for our animals to live long, healthy, happy lives. We keep them safe, feed them well, and give them endless love, but unexpected health complications can arise no matter how careful we are. From sudden injuries to chronic illnesses, veterinary bills can quickly add up. That’s where pet insurance becomes an essential part of responsible pet parenting.

The cost of veterinary care

Veterinary medicine is advancing rapidly. Today, pets benefit from high-quality diagnostics, surgery, emergency care, and speciality treatments. These services help our animals recover faster and live healthier lives, but they also come at a cost.

A single emergency visit can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the condition. Without pet insurance, many families face difficult decisions during stressful moments.

Pet insurance helps ease that financial burden, allowing you to focus on what matters most: getting your pet the care they need.

Accidents happen even to the most careful pet parents

Whether it’s a swallowed sock, a tumble down the stairs, or a sudden allergic reaction, accidents can occur in a split second. Even indoor pets are not immune to unexpected mishaps.

Pet insurance offers peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for the unknown. When an emergency strikes, you won’t have to hesitate or worry about the cost before seeking help.

Choosing the right insurance

When cost isn’t a barrier, pet parents are much more likely to pursue recommended diagnostics, preventative treatments, and follow-up care. This leads to earlier detection, better management, and improved outcomes for furry family members.

Insurance can help cover:

Veterinary exam fees
Complete sick visits
Emergency vet visits
Specialist and virtual vet visits
Holistic and chiropractic care
Injuries, illnesses, and breed-specific conditions
Behavioural therapy
Cancer treatment
Comprehensive dental care
Diagnostic tests, imaging, and ultrasound
Surgery and rehabilitation

Not all pet insurance is created equal, and coverage varies by plan. The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Pet Insurance offered by Fetch provides the most comprehensive pet insurance for cats and dogs.

Learn more

A compassionate choice

Pets bring joy, companionship, and emotional comfort. The last thing any pet parent wants is financial stress in a moment of crisis.

Choosing pet insurance isn’t just a financial decision; it’s an act of compassion. It ensures that your furry family member has access to the best care throughout their life. No one can predict the future, but with the right insurance plan, you can be prepared for whatever comes your pet’s way.

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Guest blog by Dr Emmanuel Fontaine, Scientific Communications Veterinarian at Royal Canin North America

The magical moment of welcoming a new kitten into your home is an unforgettable experience. But as enchanting as this event may be, it requires careful planning and consideration. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essentials of creating a purr-fect environment for your feline companion, from meeting their dietary needs to ensuring their comfort and well-being, empowering you with the knowledge you need to establish a harmonious home for your little furball.

Essential Equipment for Your New Kitten

Imagine setting the stage for a heartwarming scene, where your new kitten begins its lifelong adventure in your home. The first step to creating this picturesque setting involves gathering essential equipment to ensure your kitten feels comfortable, secure, and happy.

The key players in this act are food and water bowls. Opt for stainless steel, as these durable and hygienic options will support your kitten’s wellbeing. Place the bowls in separate locations, far from the litter box, to respect the natural instincts of your feline friend. If your home spans multiple floors, enhance their accessibility by placing a set of bowls on each level. To further elevate their hydration experience, consider incorporating a water fountain, which not only promotes healthy drinking habits but also adds an aesthetically pleasing element to your home.

Now that you’ve laid the foundation, it’s time to enhance the scene with cozy sleeping nooks for your kitten. Picture an assortment of pillows, covers, and baskets strategically placed in various corners, including elevated spots where they feel secure. This creative approach to bedding not only caters to their natural preferences but also adds a touch of charm to your living space.

As the stage is set, you’ll be well-prepared to welcome your new kitten into a home that caters to their unique needs and desires, fostering a harmonious and nurturing environment for their growth and happiness.

Creating a Comfortable Living Space

Now let’s craft a nurturing and inviting living space that caters to your kitten’s instinctual desires for security and exploration. Just like a well-designed movie set, your home should be equipped with all the elements needed to help your kitten feel like the star they are.

Begin by focusing on the importance of multiple beds, which serve as havens of comfort and security for your curious little explorer. Let your creativity run wild by using an array of pillows, covers, and baskets to create cozy spots throughout your home. By offering several high-up sleeping areas, you not only acknowledge your kitten’s natural inclination for safe perches but also provide them with vantage points to survey their surroundings.

Next, take a moment to consider the concept of safe spaces. Just as humans need a sanctuary to retreat to when life gets overwhelming, your kitten also requires a dedicated area where they feel protected and relaxed. Designate a quiet room or corner as their haven, and gradually introduce them to other pets, ensuring a harmonious coexistence.

Toys and Enrichment for Your Kitten

Now, playtime takes centre stage. Much like a well-crafted screenplay, your kitten’s play sessions should be a blend of entertainment and education, encouraging their mental and physical growth.

Playtime is not just a source of amusement; it’s an essential tool for learning, development, and bonding with you. By engaging with your kitten through play, you’ll be guiding them on a journey of discovery and nurturing a strong, lasting connection.

To facilitate this, select toys specifically designed for kittens, which will cater to their unique needs and abilities. Consider investing in interactive toys that stimulate their minds and satisfy their innate hunting instincts. This combination of play and mental engagement creates an enriching environment that fosters a well-rounded and contented kitten.

Incorporate scratching posts and cat trees into the scenery, providing your kitten with outlets for their natural scratching behaviours and saving your furniture and curtains in the process. By offering these features, you create a stimulating playground that satisfies your kitten’s desires for exploration and adventure.

Litter Box Basics

Begin by selecting the right litter box for your kitten. The size and design of the litter box must be well-suited to your kitten’s specific needs. Ensure it is large enough for them to use comfortably without making a mess. Offer both covered and non-covered options, allowing your kitten to express their preferences and feel more at ease.

Next, consider the ideal locations for litter boxes within your home. Litter boxes should be strategically positioned in accessible and discreet areas. If your home has multiple floors, place at least one litter box on each level to facilitate easy access for your kitten.

Lastly, adhere to the “one more than the number of cats” rule for litter boxes. This guideline ensures there is always a clean, available option for your kitten, promoting good hygiene and reducing territorial disputes.

Nutrition and Feeding Your Kitten

A well-balanced diet acts as the cornerstone for your kitten’s growth, promoting a strong immune system, healthy bones, and a shiny coat. By providing the right nutrients, you’ll be nourishing your kitten’s body and mind, empowering them to live a happy, healthy life.

To select the best food for your feline star, follow your veterinarian or trusted professional’s recommendations and pay close attention to the nutrients. Choose from wet or dry food options specifically formulated for kittens, ensuring they receive the nutrients essential for their growth stage.

Finally, establish a feeding routine and monitor portion sizes. Consistency in mealtime rituals will help your kitten feel secure and well-cared for while keeping their weight and growth on track.

Welcoming a new kitten into your home is a magical and memorable experience that unfolds like a heartwarming tale. By following the guidance shared in this blog, you’ll be setting the stage for a beautiful, lifelong relationship with your feline companion. As the protagonist of their life story, your kitten will embark on a journey filled with love, growth, and adventure, with you as their guiding star.

As you embrace this exciting new chapter, remember that your commitment, patience, and understanding will be instrumental in shaping your kitten’s life story. With your support, they will flourish and grow into a beloved family member, their life enriched by the love and care you provide.

Emmanuel Fontaine graduated from the Toulouse Veterinary School in 2004. He continued his studies at the Alfort Veterinary School (Paris) as a trainee Vet in the domestic carnivore unit of the Reproduction Department. From 2005 to 2011, he worked at the Centre d’Etude enReproduction des Carnivores (CERCA) [Research Centre for Reproduction in Carnivores], a unit specializing in pet breeding assistance. Emmanuel Fontaine is also qualified at the European College for Animal Reproduction (ECAR) and completed his PhD in 2012 on the use of GnRH agonists in canines. From September 2011 to September 2018, he worked as a Technical Services Veterinarian for the PRO team at Royal Canada. He was in charge of Scientific Communication for the Americas until August 2022. He now works as a Senior Scientific Communications Veterinarian for Royal Canin North America.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SUDBURY, ON (Dec. 8, 2025) – Just months after opening, the Ontario SPCA Sudbury Regional Veterinary Clinic is improving access to veterinary care by providing essential services that support animals, families, and communities across Northern Ontario.

Since opening its doors in July, the clinic has performed 565 spay/neuter surgeries, preventing an estimated 31,720 potentially unwanted offspring. The team has also performed 228 wellness examinations and administered 296 vaccines to help protect community pets from preventable diseases. It also provided 40 end-of-life care appointments, ensuring families have access to compassionate support during difficult times.

“These results highlight just how vital this clinic is for Northern communities,” says Sonya Reichel, Vice President of Operations, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “By increasing access to veterinary care, we’re helping keep pets healthy, supporting families, and reducing pet overpopulation across the region.”

Located at 21 Lasalle Blvd. on the Collège Boréal campus, the Sudbury clinic offers spay/neuter and basic veterinary services for publicly owned dogs and cats, local rescue organizations, and animals in the care of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre.

In addition to serving the community, the clinic continues to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students enrolled in Collège Boréal’s Veterinary Care Technician program. Students gain valuable real-world experience as they prepare to meet the growing demand for veterinary professionals across the North.

Registration for monthly spay/neuter appointments continues to take place once a month through the Ontario SPCA website. For upcoming registration dates, visit ontariospca.ca/spayneuter

Media Contact:

Media Relations
Ontario SPCA and Humane Society
905-898-7122 x 375
[email protected]

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is a registered charity that has been changing the lives of animals for over 150 years. The Society provides care, comfort and compassion to animals in need in communities across Ontario. It values all animals and advocates to treat them with respect and kindness. The Society strives to keep pets and families together and does so through a variety of community support services, such as sheltering and adoptions, including emergency sheltering, feral cat management programs, animal transfers, food distribution, humane education, animal advocacy, and spay/neuter services.

The Ontario SPCA does not receive annual government funding and relies on donations to provide programs and services to help animals in need. To learn more, or to donate, visit ontariospca.ca. Charitable Business # 88969-1044-RR0002.

The Ontario SPCA Sudbury Regional Veterinary Clinic is located on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek. The Greater City of Sudbury also includes the traditional lands of the Wahnapitae First Nation.

About Collège Boréal

Founded in Sudbury in 1995, Collège Boréal is a French-language postsecondary institution committed to the development and growth of the various Ontario communities it serves. With 34 sites including eight campuses in 27 communities, Boréal offers high-level expertise in postsecondary education with the highest graduate and employer satisfaction rates among Ontario’s 24 community colleges.

Its services also include basic training, apprenticeship, immigration and integration services, employment services, continuing education, customized training and applied research.

Collège Boréal’s Veterinary Care Technician program is proudly accredited by the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT) and the College of Veterinarians of Ontario. This program also has a Certificate of Good Animal Practice (GAP) issued by the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) and is certified under the Animals for Research Act issued by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. For more details: visit collegeboreal.ca/en/programme/veterinary-care-technician.

Some dog breeds need a little extra protection during the winter months. If your dog falls into that category, we hope you find these tips helpful for fitting your dog for a winter coat!

Tips to fit your dog for a winter coat

To keep your furry friend suitably protected, you should consider a dog coat to keep them comfortable during winter walks or potty breaks. Even heavier-coated dogs may appreciate a raincoat for those wet and gloomy days.

Ideally, walking into a pet store (that welcomes animals!) with your dog is the best way to ensure the canine coat you’re interested in will fit. Alternatively, you can simply measure your furry friend at home and then visit a variety of stores or browse online for the coat that will work best for your animal.

Measurement tips:

Use a soft or paper measuring tape.
Your dog should be standing up on all fours, not sitting or lying down.
Allow an extra inch or two in length to accommodate movement.
Measurements should include from the base of the neck to the base of the tail, the circumference of the neck, the chest width and the circumference of the chest.

Many canine coat manufacturers will offer sizing and breed tips for their products on their company website. You can also ask someone at your local pet store to help you fit your dog with the right coat.

We hope these tips help keep your furry friend warm this winter!

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Dogs are exceptional animals, and their ability and desire to form deep and loving bonds with humans is extraordinary. By adopting, you are truly giving your dog an amazing gift – a second chance.

Following an adoption, it may take a few weeks or months for you and your dog to fully adjust to your new life together, and to establish a relationship based on mutual understanding, trust and respect. Be patient. Remember, there is a reason you’ve chosen this dog, or they have chosen you!

The following adoption tips will help you bring out your dog’s superstar qualities.

Help your dog relax at home alone

Adopted dogs usually form deep bonds with their new parents, and in the beginning, separation may be emotional for you both. Help give your dog the confidence to be home alone by incorporating the following confidence-building tips into their day. Begin using these tips as soon as you bring your new friend home.

Leave the house frequently for short periods by walking out the door, closing it, and then returning. Once your dog is comfortable with short departures, randomly include some longer departures.
Ignore your dog during departures and arrivals (be very casual – don’t look back!).
Practice mini departures inside by closing doors when you take a shower, use the bathroom, etc.
Studies have shown that dogs are calmed by classical music, so consider changing your radio station.
Try to stay relaxed (if you’re anxious, your dog’s anxiety will increase).
Give your dog a safe chew toy stuffed with treats before you leave the house.

A dog with severe separation anxiety may destroy property, bark incessantly, scratch around doors or windows, or injure themselves in a frenzied panic. Speak to a dog trainer, animal behaviourist or veterinarian for ways to increase your dog’s comfort when they are home alone. Learn more about separation anxiety.

Establish household rules and routines

If your dog is living with more than one person, it is especially important that rules and routines are followed by every member of the household to encourage consistency and to give your dog stability and leadership. The more consistent your family is, the quicker your dog can figure things out.

Lack of routine, yelling at your dog for doing things wrong, or letting them make up their own rules will only make your dog anxious and unsettled. Consider incorporating some of the following rules and routines into your household.

Feed your dog high-quality meals on a regular schedule in a quiet place.
Offer your dog plenty of enrichment throughout the day, such as going for walks. Active dogs may also require vigorous off-leash exercise in a secure area.
Until your dog is housetrained, sleeping in a crate in someone’s bedroom is recommended. Once they can hold it all night, they can graduate to sleeping on their own.
Use treats as rewards for good behaviour (such as lying down quietly), or as training aids. Do not feed your dog from the table or when they are whining, barking or pawing you.
Teach your dog that they must ask for things by sitting politely, rather than by making demands (e.g. barking/pawing). Before giving them the things they value, such as meals, wait for them to sit. Turn away if they start barking and/or jumping.

Take a dog training class

Taking your dog – and your family – to dog training classes is a wonderful and fun way to help you understand how your dog thinks and learns, and how to motivate him or her to repeat behaviours you like!

You can also have a trainer visit your home for private sessions. While costs vary, the investment will repay itself many times over throughout the life of your dog. A good class can put you in a room full of other new dog parents just like yourself, answer all your day-to-day questions, and help address the minor issues that may arise.

Look for a trainer that uses “positive-reinforcement” techniques that are humane and fun, including “lure-rewarding” (using treats to lure dogs into position), and “clicker training” (marking the exact moment the dog is doing the desired behaviour using a small device that makes a “click” – followed by feeding a treat).

Learn more about positive reinforcement training.

Check out our blog for more training tips.

With these tips in mind, we hope you enjoy the journey of welcoming a new furry family member into your home!

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At the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, we strive to find loving homes for the animals that come into our care. Sometimes community cats, which some people refer to as feral cats, end up in our animal centres and cannot be returned to their original colony site, for various reasons. The Ontario SPCA believes in finding an alternative home for these cats by giving them “jobs” as working cats!

Where would working cats be a good fit?

Working cats are healthy, sterilized, vaccinated, microchipped, ear tipped and in need of a new, non-traditional home environment. Some examples of these new homes we are looking for could include barns, stables, auto repair shops, woodworking shops, wineries, breweries, greenhouses/nurseries/garden centres, churches, storage facilities/warehouses.

What kind of cat can you expect?

Working cats are not suited to be your typical indoor pets and, as unsocialized animals, they have no desire to be lap cats. These are working cats – former street cats who are used to outdoor life – and they prefer minimal to no human contact. But they will also happily tend to any mouse, mole or vermin problems for the small cost of a bowl of cat food and water set out daily, veterinary care as needed and shelter in a garage, barn etc.

And because we spay/neuter these cats before they leave the Ontario SPCA, adopters never need to worry about endless litters of kittens!

How much does it cost to adopt a working cat?

The adoption fee is waived; however, we gladly accept donations to help sustain the program. You will be responsible for ongoing veterinary care (as necessary), food, water and shelter.

*Though the adoption itself is free, we require each working cat to go home with a feral cat winter shelter, so that the cat can be provided with a warm space during the winter months. The cost for each shelter is $20.

Interested in adopting a working cat? Read the FAQ on our website.

As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need. Please consider donating today.

Giving Tuesday is an annual event that embraces the generous holiday spirit a few weeks early and encourages people to donate to their favourite charities. We thought we’d help you get into the giving spirit by sharing four quick and easy ways you can give back to animals in need this Giving Tuesday!

1. Donate

Today only, your gift will be DOUBLED to help animals in need, thanks to our friends at Fetch Pet Insurance, who are matching all donations up to $25,000!

Donate today and make 2X the impact for animals in need.

2. Shop for meaningful holiday gifts on Paws & Give™

Our Paws & Give™ store has the purrfect gift for any animal lover on your list! From festive holiday sweaters, calendars, tree ornaments, symbolic gifts and more – shopping our online store is an easy way to give back to animals in need and cross a few items off your holiday list!

3. Participate in Home for the Holidays

Home for the Holidays is a fun way to celebrate adoption and find loving homes for as many animals as possible across the province, especially our senior furry friends and long-term residents who are dreaming of spending the holidays with their new family. With many people home for the holidays, it’s the perfect time to welcome a new furry family member if you’ve been considering adoption.

Help make this season merry and bright for animals in need by giving the gift of a loving home. Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to view our animals available for adoption.

4. Donate to our Animal Supplies Wish List

Furry friends at Ontario SPCA animal centres across Ontario need items to stay happy and healthy while they await their loving homes. Leashes, collars, dog and cat toys, treats, and kitty litter are just some of the things that are always in high demand.

Visit their wishlists today to add a gift under their tree this holiday season!

5. Follow and share our social media

Follow us on social media and help give animals in need the second chance they deserve! Every follow, like, comment, and share helps spread the word and brings more visibility to pets waiting for their loving homes. Your engagement truly makes a difference; it helps connect vulnerable animals with loving families. Plus, you’ll get a daily dose of adorable, heart-melting animal content to brighten your feed and your day. Join our community and be part of creating more happy endings.