Generous donation makes outdoor dog runs possible for the Sudbury & District Animal Centre

by Ontario SPCA and Humane Society | Interesting | February 19, 2021

Exciting changes are underway for the dogs at the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre. Over the last few months, they’ve been building outdoor dog runs thanks to a generous $75,000 donation from supporters Craig Fielding and Katriina Ruotsalo of Northern Legacy Horse Farm.

Until now, the Sudbury & District Animal Centre had no outdoor space for dogs to run and play off leash. Ontario SPCA team members would take the dogs out for three walks a day, but nothing compares to free play time in an open space. The outdoor runs have a roof and secure double entry to make sure dogs are safe during their time outside.

“Having that freedom is really beneficial to the dogs. It’s having those moments when they can act like a normal dog, having space to run around in; it’s really helpful to their mental health,” says Jen Hughes, Manager of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre.

A refuge for Northern dogs

Craig and Katriina both have a passion for dogs and have been long-time supporters of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. With the outdoor dog runs complete, the new facilities will be used as a rest-stop for Northern dogs in need of homes as they are being transported south where there are families waiting to adopt them.

“Being able to have this off-leash time to de-stress after a long journey will be hugely beneficial to dogs travelling from the North,” says Jen. “This will give them a safe place to stretch their legs before they continue their journey on their way to find homes.”

With construction complete, the dogs in Sudbury’s care will continue to enjoy not only several walks each day and lots of enrichment from the dedicated animal centre staff, but also free play time in the outdoor runs.

See pictures below of the progress and finished product!