Over 200 spay/neuter surgeries on World Spay Day 

On February 24, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society joined animal welfare organizations around the world to mark World Spay Day, a global movement dedicated to expanding access to spay and neuter services and advancing long-term solutions to pet overpopulation. 

Creating lasting change 

Spay and neuter remains one of the most effective ways to prevent unplanned litters, reduce the number of animals entering shelters, and create healthier communities for pets and the people who love them.  

How we marked World Spay Day in Ontario 

To maximize our impact, the Ontario SPCA tripled capacity across our five high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinics in Barrie, Stouffville, Durham, Thunder Bay and Sudbury. By dedicating additional resources and extending clinic hours, our teams were able to help significantly more animals than on a typical day.  

Our Neuter Scooters were also on the road in Durham, Napanee and Orangeville, transporting animals to participating clinics and returning them home the same day. 

Through these expanded efforts, 227 animals were spayed or neutered at our clinics, helping prevent more than an estimated 12,000 unplanned puppies and kittens who may have otherwise ended up in shelters. 

“This service is so extremely important,” says a client from our Ontario SPCA York Region Veterinary Clinic in Stouffville. “A lot of families in my situation struggle financially and our animals are our family. This is a gift for me.” 

In addition to surgery, families received added preventive support. Thanks to our generous partners, 275 microchips were donated by 24PetWatch, and free rabies and canine distemper vaccines were provided by Boehringer Ingelheim, ensuring animals left better protected for the future.  

“The impact of World Spay Day extends well beyond a single day,” says Charmaine Brett, President and CEO of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Our efforts helped more animals gain access to essential spay and neuter services, removing barriers for families in the community.” 

Collaboration beyond borders 

This year, we were proud to stand alongside partners in Ukraine, Nepal, India, Romania, the Bahamas, Sri Lanka, Mexico and here in Canada.  

We extend our sincere thanks to Amulet Veterinary Clinic, FOP Polyanska A.Yu. (VC Anna Polyanska), Himalayan Animal Rescue Trust, Jaipur, Asociatia Sache, Tree of Life for Animals, SPCA Bahamas, Help the Suffering India, Worldwide Vets, Dogstar, the BC SPCA, Peterborough Humane Society, and Maya Animal Alliance for their commitment to improving animal well-being. 

Thank you to our supporters 

This vital preventative care was made possible through the generosity of our donors and supporters, including Royal Canin, 24PetWatch, Boehringer Ingelheim, Whiskas and many generous individuals. 

“Thanks to our generous sponsors, all procedures provided through the Ontario SPCA were offered at no cost to the community, enabling us to reach families and animals who might not have been able to access this care otherwise,” says Charmaine. 

As a 100% donor-funded charity, we are grateful to everyone who helps make initiatives like World Spay Day possible. 

Together, we are creating lasting change for animals.