February 9, 2026

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society welcomes new animal centre manager in Orillia

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IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Orillia, ON (Feb. 9, 2026) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is pleased to welcome Krystal Abbott as the new manager of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Orillia and District Animal Centre.

Abbott steps into the role after nearly four years with the organization, bringing a deep-rooted passion for animal well-being and a strong understanding of compassionate, community-based care. Her journey with the Ontario SPCA began as a volunteer, where she quickly discovered her calling to support animals in need. From there, she progressed through roles in animal care, coordinator, and now manager.

“Animals are truly my life, both at work and at home,” says Abbott. “My greatest motivation comes from providing compassion and care, and advocating for those who need it most, especially harder-to-adopt animals.”

In her new role, Abbott looks forward to deepening connections within the Orillia community and continuing to help give animals in need a second chance by matching them with the perfect family.

“I truly believe every animal deserves the chance to be part of a loving family,” she says. “That belief drives me every day.”

Outside of work, Abbott lives on a farm in Oro-Medonte with her husband and their three children. Their household includes three dogs, four cats, two rabbits, and six alpacas.

“Family, farming, and animals are at the heart of everything we do,” she says.

The Ontario SPCA looks forward to Abbott’s leadership and dedication as she begins this next chapter at the Orillia and District Animal Centre.

Abbott takes over the manager position from Janna Handiak, who has stepped into the role of Operations Manager of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Barrie and District Animal Centre and the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Marion Vernon Memorial Animal Clinic.

To learn more, visit ontariospca.ca/orillia

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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 and Humane Society Orillia and District Animal Centre is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg. The Anishinaabeg include the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Pottawatomi nations, collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy.