Giving dogs a second chance through partnerships
When a request for assistance comes in, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society helps in whatever way it can to change the lives of animals in need. We work with communities, rescues and other SPCAs and Humane Societies in Ontario and beyond to help find homes for animals.
When Katrin Schoenmair, Manager of the Ontario SPCA York Region Animal Centre, received a call from a kennel in Southern Ontario nearing capacity, she knew the situation was serious.
“Our team responded swiftly. After discussing possible transfers, I visited the kennel to assess the situation firsthand,” says Katrin.
One dog, named Francesca, left a lasting impression. “When I first saw her, she was sitting in an open crate, her sadness palpable. I knew immediately we had to bring her back with us,” Katrin says.
On May 24, the York Region Animal Centre welcomed five dogs, including Francesca. She has since been adopted and is now living her best life on a peaceful island, enjoying daily walks, trips to the beach, and lots of love from her new family.
Kenicki, now known as Emil, came in as a stray and was one of the dogs transferred. The two-year-old Border Collie mix is now living the high life as his adopter’s co-pilot, flying in floatplanes and making new friends everywhere he goes.
“He’s a true little gentleman. He’s been so wonderfully behaved, comes when he’s called, friendly with everybody,” says his adopter. “He’s really very smart and picks things up very quickly.”
To date, the Ontario SPCA has transferred 50 dogs and 20 cats from this kennel, which often sees large influx of stray animals coming into its care. The Ontario SPCA has a successful adoption program, with more than 4,000 animals finding loving homes last year. When a call for assistance comes in, we do what we can to help.
“These dogs are sweet and friendly, making them ideal candidates for rehoming,” says Katrin.
In addition to finding these animals forever homes, the Ontario SPCA has also provided vital medical care to ensure the animals are ready to start their new lives, including spay/neuter surgeries. Two of the dogs also required surgery to correct cherry eye, a condition in which the third eyelid protrudes and needs to be repaired.
While this collaboration continues, the Ontario SPCA’s goal remains clear: To provide care, comfort and compassion to animals in need. Through teamwork and collaboration, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals in communities across Ontario.
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. Please consider donating today to help ensure we can be there to help more animals who need us.
