Page 10 – Ontario SPCA

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is thrilled to share the success of our recent iAdopt: Furever Homes adoption event, held Sept. 26-28, thanks to the incredible support of HomeEquity Bank.

Over the course of three days, we witnessed the power of community, compassion, and connection as a total of 123 animals found their happily-ever-afters! Each adoption represents not just a new beginning for the animals, but also a deep, meaningful bond for their new families.

By reducing adoption fees by 20% and waiving fees for senior pets, HomeEquity Bank helped more animals find loving homes. Senior pets, who are often overlooked, were the stars of this event. Their calm, steady personalities proved to be the perfect match for adopters seeking companionship, routine, and joy. Pets bring unconditional love and comfort to their adopters, and caring for an animal provides daily structure, boosts well-being, and reduces feelings of loneliness.

Beyond adoptions, the event was also about celebrating community. Families, volunteers, and supporters came together to give animals the second chance that they deserve.

We extend a warm thank you to Kurt Browning, World Figure Skating Champion and proud animal lover, who made a special guest appearance at our Ontario SPCA York Region Animal Centre on Sunday, Sept. 28 to meet adopters and help shine a spotlight on the many animals waiting to find their match. With every tail wag, purr, and happy adoption, the spirit of iAdopt shone through.

If you couldn’t attend this event, there are still many animals across Ontario waiting for loving homes. Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt or visit your local animal centre to meet them.

Not ready to adopt? Consider fostering! Providing a temporary home for an animal in need is another rewarding way to change a life – for the animal, and for you! Learn more about becoming a foster volunteer.

Thanks to your support, iAdopt: Furever Homes was a heartwarming success. Together, we made a difference one adoption at a time.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cornwall, ON (Sept. 29, 2025) – To mark World Rabies Day and help protect the community, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society held a vaccination clinic in Cornwall yesterday where it vaccinated 65 cats.

Sponsored by Pet Valu’s Companions for Change™ program and supported by Boehringer Ingelheim, the clinic provided free wellness resources and core vaccinations for cats to assist families who may otherwise face barriers to veterinary care.

Attendees also had access to vital outreach services. A total of 3,200 lbs of pet food, as well as pet care supplies, was distributed at the event, which was held at the Agora Catholic Centre/Nativity Bowling Alley in Cornwall, ensuring that animals are not only protected, but also supported with the essentials they need to thrive.

The event took place on World Rabies Day, an initiative in partnership with Veterinarians Without Borders North America/Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Amerique du Nord (VWB/VSF). Cats at the clinic received the rabies vaccine to protect them against the deadly disease.

“Rabies is a deadly but preventable disease, and vaccinations are the best way to protect our pets and our communities,” says Bonnie Bishop, Eastern Regional Manager of Community Outreach Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “By hosting this clinic on World Rabies Day, we’re helping to ensure that families facing barriers to care can keep their cats healthy and safe.”

Each year, Sept. 28 marks World Rabies Day – a time dedicated to raising awareness about ending the fatal zoonotic disease across the globe, including right here in Canada. This is a global movement aimed at supporting the World Health Organization’s “Zero by 30,” which is a global goal to eliminate human deaths caused by rabies transmitted by dogs by the year 2030.

For more information on the Ontario SPCA’s mobile animal wellness services, visit ontariospca.ca/mobileservices

Media Contact

Arianne Kirkey
Community Outreach Coordinator,
Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre
(613) 937-7622
[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 Stormont Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre is located on the lands of the Akwesasne Mohawks and their ancestors. We also acknowledge the Algonquin, Haudenosaunee (Ho-den-oshow-nee) (Iroquois), Huron-Wendat (huron-wen·dat), and Abenaki who are neighbours and partners to the Akwesasne Mohawk.

About VWB/VSF

Founded in 2005, Veterinarians Without Borders North America / Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Amérique du Nord (VWB/VSF) is a non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to improving community health through enhanced animal health. Using a “One Health” approach, we work with diverse partners to strengthen community-centered animal health systems, directly benefiting the people and environments that rely on them. As the North American affiliate of VSF International, VWB/VSF operates independently, with ongoing programs in Africa, Asia, Northern Canada, and Europe. Our efforts focus on disease prevention, sustainable livelihoods, equitable access to resources, capacity building, and humanitarian relief, reaching over 1 million people annually. Learn more: www.vwb.org.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bracebridge, ON (Sept. 29, 2025) – To mark World Rabies Day and help protect the community, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society and Veterinarians Without Borders North America/Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Amerique du Nord (VWB/VSF) held a vaccination clinic in Bracebridge, protecting 15 dogs against the deadly disease.

Held at the Ontario SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre on Sept. 27, the clinic provided core vaccines and free rabies vaccines to dogs to assist families who may otherwise face barriers to veterinary care. Rabies vaccinations for this clinic are donated by VWB/VSF, made possible through generous financial support from Merck Animal Health.

“Rabies is a fatal disease, but it’s one we can prevent. Vaccinating our pets is the most effective way to keep both animals and people safe,” says Victoria Hiorth, Central Regional Manager of Community Outreach Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “By offering this clinic to mark World Rabies Day, we’re making it easier for families who may otherwise face challenges to protect their animals and give them the healthy lives they deserve.”

For more information on the Ontario SPCA’s mobile animal wellness services, visit ontariospca.ca/mobileservices

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 Muskoka Animal Centre serves communities situated on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, which includes the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations, collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy. The Huron-Wendat and the Haudenosaunee Nations have also walked on this territory over time. Today Muskoka is home to three sovereign nations: Wahta Mohawks First Nations, Moose Deer Point First Nation and the Moon River Métis. These lands are covered by the Williams Treaty (of 1923), the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850 and the J. Collins land purchase (of 1785).

About VWB/VSF

Get ready for your chance to win big while making a difference for animals in need! The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is excited to announce its Fall Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery, where there’s a guaranteed jackpot of $75,000! With every ticket sold, the jackpot grows.

The Grand Prize draw takes place on Nov. 7, when one lucky winner will walk away with a life-changing amount of money. Our last winner took home over $127,000!

Not only do you have the chance to win big, but every ticket you purchase supports animals in need across Ontario.

Why your ticket matters

The Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery is more than just an exciting opportunity to win; it’s also a way to give back. Funds raised go directly toward animal welfare initiatives that help vulnerable animals in communities across Ontario.

All proceeds support the Ontario SPCA’s Community Access to Resources, Education, and Support (CARES) Fund, which helps SPCAs and Humane Societies across the province fund critical animal welfare projects.

About the CARES Fund

The CARES Fund was created to strengthen animal welfare efforts across Ontario. Through this fund, SPCAs and Humane Societies can access support for initiatives that truly make a difference, such as expanding access to veterinary care, offering community spay/neuter services and upgrading shelters to improve comfort and quality of life for animals

Every ticket purchased for the Fall Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery helps grow the CARES Fund, ensuring more animals receive the care they deserve.

Learn more about the CARES Fund and our 2025 grant recipients.

Get your tickets today!

Don’t miss your chance to win big while helping animals in need. Visit ontariospcalottery.ca to purchase your tickets today!

Ticket prices are:

$10 for 10 tickets 
$20 for 40 tickets 
$40 for 200 tickets 
$75 for 400 tickets      
$100 for 650 tickets

Every ticket increases your odds of winning with four exciting Early Bird draws plus the Grand Prize draw up for grabs. Follow @ontariospca and mark your calendar for Nov. 7 when the Grand Prize winner will be announced!

Together, we can make a life-changing impact for animals and the people who love them.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (Sept. 29, 2025) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery is back, giving you the chance to rake in the cash this fall while helping animals in need.

There is a guaranteed jackpot of $75,000 and with every ticket sold, the jackpot grows! The winner of the Ontario SPCA’s spring 50/50 lottery took home more than $127,000 – all for supporting a cause that’s close to the heart.

Get your paws on tickets early and you could fetch even more! There are four Early Bird prizes up for grabs, with draws taking place Oct. 9, 16 and 30 and Nov. 6. The Grand Prize draw takes place on Nov. 18 and you can get in on the action for as little as $10 for 10 tickets. Don’t miss your chance to win big and help animals get the care they deserve.

When you buy a ticket, you’re not just taking a chance at a life-changing prize, you’re helping give animals a second chance. Funds raised through the Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery support the Ontario SPCA’s Community Access to Resources, Education, and Support (CARES) Fund – a new grant program that helps SPCAs and humane societies across Ontario. The CARES Fund provides financial support for initiatives that enhance animal welfare, including spay/neuter programs, veterinary care, and shelter improvements.

“This lottery is about more than just the excitement of winning,” says Stephanie Miller, Vice President of Development, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Every ticket sold helps fund vital programs across the province that improve the lives of animals. Through your support of the Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery, we’re able to extend support where it’s needed most and create lasting change for animals in our communities.”

Fetch your tickets today at ontariospcalottery.ca

Lottery License No: RAF1491380

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 Provincial Office sits on the traditional territory of the Wendat, the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the Mississaugas of Scugog, Hiawatha and Alderville First Nations and the Métis Nation. This territory was the subject of the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, an agreement between the Iroquois Confederacy and the Ojibwe and allied nations to peaceably share and care for the resources around the Great Lakes. The treaties that were signed for this particular parcel of land are collectively referred to as the Williams Treaties of 1923.

We’re so excited to officially welcome Julie Woods as the new manager of the Ontario SPCA Orangeville & District Animal Centre!

Julie steps into the role following Dawn Lyons, who managed the Orangeville & District Animal Centre for five years before moving into her new role as Provincial Operations Manager of Clinical Services with the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society.

Julie brings with her a lifelong love of animals, plus over 20 years of customer service and leadership experience. She’s worked in the pet industry before and is thrilled to combine her passion for animals with her new role.

A lifelong love of animals

“I’ve had pets since I was a kid. My family has always had all kinds of animals – some adopted, and some found us,” says Julie, who once dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. “It’s just so wonderful to work with animals again.”

Helping animals find loving homes

For Julie, one of the most rewarding parts of her job is working with her team to get to know each animal and help them find the perfect family. Her goal is to find loving homes for more than 650 animals this year – and the centre is well on its way, with nearly 400 adoptions already!

“I love seeing the different personalities of the cats and their playfulness, and spending time outside with our dogs is really fun,” Julie says. “Sometimes they come in a little shy, and within a couple of days of routine and attention from our caring staff and volunteers, they come around and win everyone over. That’s really special.”

Inspired by community support

Julie says she’s amazed by the kindness and generosity of the community who step up to help the animals at the centre.

“There’s just so much community support,” she says. “I’m blown away with how many people are fostering, volunteering and donating – not just monetary donations, but also supplies, bedding and other items that our centre needs to provide the best care possible for the animals.”

Life outside the animal centre

When Julie isn’t changing lives at the animal centre, she enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and their many four-legged (and finned!) family members on their farm in Belwood. The Woods family shares their life with three cats, a dog, a horse, and plenty of fish. They’re also about to open their home to a foster mom dog and her puppies to help prepare them for adoption.

“I think working at the Ontario SPCA has just given me more of a purpose,” says Julie. “I want to help people and animals find their match.”

Visit the Orangeville & District Animal Centre

Want to meet the incredible animals waiting for homes? Learn more about the Orangeville & District Animal Centre, and view animals available for adoption at ontariospca.ca/orangeville.

Want to help change the lives of animals in need? Join our team! Visit our website for a list of current employment opportunities.

Young puppies and kittens are adorable and playful – they also require a lot of time and training, and they are balls of energy. If this doesn’t sound like the right fit for your family, a senior furry family member may be for you! It is important to find an animal companion that is compatible with your lifestyle. The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society considers cats to be senior at 10 years old, and dogs are considered senior at the age of eight, but maturity does depend on breed and size.

Here’s why senior pets are awesome!

Senior maturity

Younger animals are still in the process of learning, developing and growing. Senior furry friends are fully matured, meaning their temperaments and personalities have already been established.
Senior animals give you a better sense of their personality and needs, as well as how compatible the two of you will be!

Cool as a cucumber

Most senior furballs tend to be calmer and more laidback, which is why they often do well in houses with young children or first-time pet parents.
Exercise is still very important for senior animals, but they do not have as much energy as their younger counterparts.

Old dog, new tricks

Senior dogs tend to have longer attention spans compared to younger dogs, which make them easier to train.
Your senior dog will likely already be housebroken and familiar with basic training and household etiquette.
It is also likely they have already spent time socializing around humans and other animals.

Another reason why you should consider adopting a senior animal companion is because they are often overlooked and tend to stay in shelters longer. Many people who have chosen to adopt an older dog or cat will tell you that senior furry family members seem to understand the second chance you are giving them and form a special bond with their new family.

Ready to adopt? Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to view our animals currently available for adoption.

Visit our blog to read some heartwarming senior adoption stories!

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. If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation.

Whether you’re picking up essentials or treating your furry friend to some new toys, a trip to the pet store can be an enjoyable outing for both you and your companion. However, there are a few things to consider before leashing up your pup and heading out the door. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth visit!

Consider your animal’s personality

Before leashing up your furry friend and heading out the door, take a moment to consider their temperament and behaviour. Not all animals are suited for the bustling environment of a pet store. If your furry companion becomes anxious or agitated in crowded places, it may be best to leave them at home in a safe and comfortable environment.

Ensure vaccinations are up to date

The health and safety of all animals should be a top priority when visiting public spaces like pet stores. Before bringing your dog along, ensure they are up to date on all necessary vaccinations. This helps protect them from potential illnesses and prevents the spread of disease to other animals.

Use proper equipment

Once you’ve determined that your four-legged friend is ready for a trip to the store, make sure they are properly managed for the journey. Dogs should always be kept on a leash to prevent them from wandering off or getting into trouble. You can imagine the temptation! Additionally, consider using a secure animal carrier for smaller animals like cats or small dogs to keep them safe and contained during the outing.

Plan for bathroom breaks

Before entering the pet store, take your animal for a bathroom break to minimize the risk of accidents indoors. Even if they are fully house-trained, the excitement of a new environment can sometimes cause them to forget their manners. By allowing your furry friend to relieve themselves beforehand, you can help prevent any embarrassing mishaps while browsing the aisles. If an accident does occur while browsing, clean it up immediately and notify store staff for assistance.

Be Mindful of other animals and people

While exploring the store, be considerate of other shoppers and their animals. Keep a safe distance to avoid potential conflicts or confrontations. If your furry companion is prone to excitement or overstimulation, consider visiting during off-peak hours when the store is less crowded.

Supervise your animal at all times

It’s essential to keep a close eye on your animal throughout your visit to the pet store. Supervision helps prevent them from getting into mischief or causing disruptions. Stay attentive to their behavior and be prepared to intervene if necessary to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.

Reward good behaviour

During your trip to the pet store, take the opportunity to reinforce good behavior with positive reinforcement. Reward your furry friend for staying calm, following commands, and interacting politely with other animals and people. This helps create a positive association with the pet store and encourages your animal to behave well on future visits. Learn more about positive reinforcement training.

By following these tips, you can make trips to the pet store enjoyable and stress-free for both you and your furry companion.

Whether you’re excited for autumn, or you’re still hanging onto summer, fall has arrived! We want to make sure you and your furry family members enjoy a safe fall season, so we’re sharing our top five safety tips for the season!

Fall safety

Even though temperatures are starting to cool down, ensure your animal still has access to water and shelter when spending time outside.
It’s starting to get darker sooner. Consider walking your animal earlier in the evening and wear reflective gear, such as a reflective vest for you and a reflective collar or leash for your pet.
Fall can also mean heavy rain. Creeks and streams may be at a higher level than normal. Be cautious and maintain care and control at all times to ensure your pet is safe.
Back to school changes the routine in your household. It also means your pet may want to snack on school supplies lying around, such as crayons, markers, glue, or pencils. These objects can be a choking hazard or can be toxic for your pet to ingest. Keep school supplies in areas where your pet can’t reach them and share this important tip with your children.
Watch for ticks. Ticks like to live in leaf litter, so before letting your pet run through the pile of leaves you’ve just raked – think twice! Check your pet regularly when they come inside as well.

With these safety considerations in mind, we hope you enjoy the Fall season!

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.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (Sept. 22, 2025) – To help more animals find loving homes, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is reducing adoption fees by 20 per cent, courtesy of HomeEquity Bank – and waiving adoption fees entirely for senior pets – from Sept. 26-28 at its animal centres across the province.

iAdopt: Furever Homes, presented by HomeEquity Bank, is intended to connect people and pets so both can thrive. The goal of the three-day adoption event is to place as many animals as possible into loving homes, with a special emphasis on creating perfect matches between our senior animals in care and adopters 55+.

Despite having so much to offer, senior animals are often overlooked in shelters and wait longer to find a loving home. They are typically calm, well-mannered, and already house-trained, making them an ideal match for older adopters seeking a steady, reliable friend. Adopting a pet can provide life-enriching benefits for older Canadians – from improved mental and physical well-being to a stronger sense of community and purpose.

“Pets offer so much more than just companionship. Research consistently reveals pets provide a sense of purpose, routine, physical activity and a reduced sense of loneliness some older adults may experience,” says Niary Toodakian, Vice President, Customer Insights and Brand, HomeEquity Bank. “Older Canadians are living vibrant, active, connected lives. They show us that age brings the wisdom, compassion, and commitment that makes them the perfect pet owners.”

If you’re not able to adopt, you can make a difference for an animal by becoming a foster volunteer. For empty nesters facing lonely houses this time of year as their kids head off to school, fostering can be a happy distraction.

“If you could use some companionship or purpose in your life, fostering might be the perfect way to give back to animals in need,” says Sonya Reichel, Vice President of Operations, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “It makes a world of difference for animals who need a bit more TLC than an animal centre can provide to help prepare them for adoption.”

To see animals available for adoption, or to learn more about becoming a foster volunteer, visit ontariospca.ca

Media Contact:

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

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

For many Canadians, the “empty nest” stage of life brings a touch of quiet. For some parents, this new chapter brings freedom, but for others it can also bring loneliness. With children grown and busy with their own lives, parents may find themselves looking for new ways to fill their days with purpose and joy. If you’ve been thinking of adopting, welcoming an animal into your life can fill your heart, and your home.

Empty nesters typically have the time to provide the love and stability pets need and, in return, they gain unwavering loyalty and countless heartwarming moments each day. Caring for a furry family member weaves joy back into daily routines, while research shows pet parents are 158% happier than the average Canadian.

Here are just a few of the benefits of having animals in your life:

Companionship: A pet’s unconditional love eases loneliness and fills quiet moments with comfort.
Routine and purpose: Feeding, walking, and caring for an animal brings structure to daily life and a renewed sense of purpose.
Physical health: Regular walks or playtime encourage gentle, consistent activity that supports healthy aging.
Mental health: Pets are known to help increase happiness in their pet parents, with reduced stress and improved overall well-being.
Social connection: Pets are wonderful icebreakers, helping their parents feel more connected to neighbours and their community.
Lifestyle: Senior pets, in particular, are calm, steady and typically already trained, making them an ideal fit for adopters 55+. Learn more about the benefits of adopting a senior pet.

If adoption isn’t an option right now, fostering is another wonderful way to help. Fostering gives animals a safe and loving environment while also providing their temporary caregivers with companionship and a deeper connection to their community.

Learn more about becoming a foster volunteer.

iAdopt: Furever Homes

From Sept. 26-28, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is hosting a special adoption event to place as many animals as possible into new homes, with a special emphasis on creating perfect matches between our senior animals in care and adopters 55+. Thanks to the support of HomeEquity Bank, adoption fees will be reduced by 20% and waived for senior pets at Ontario SPCA animal centres across the province over the three-day event, helping more animals find the loving homes they deserve.

Check out our tips for adopting a senior animal.

To see our animals currently available for adoption, visit ontariospca.ca/adopt

If you’ve ever walked into the kitchen to find your dog with their paws up on the counter and a missing sandwich, you’re not alone. “Counter surfing” is a common behaviour in dogs, especially those who are curious, food motivated, or simply bored. Counter surfing is not only frustrating, it can be dangerous if your dog ingests harmful foods or kitchen items. The good news is that with consistency and patience, you can prevent this unwanted behaviour.

Why dogs counter surf

Dogs explore the world with their noses, and kitchen counters often smell like a buffet of irresistible scents. If they’ve had success grabbing food before, they’ll likely try again – it’s rewarding! Understanding this helps us tackle the root of the problem: access and temptation.

Prevention tips and tricks

Manage the environment. Keep counters clear of food and enticing objects. If there’s nothing rewarding to find, your dog will be less motivated to check.
Provide alternatives. Make sure your dog has plenty of appropriate chew toys, puzzle feeders, or snuffle mats. Mental stimulation can reduce the urge to scavenge.
Reward good behaviour. When your dog chooses to stay on the floor while you’re preparing food, praise and reward them. Consistently reinforcing calm, polite behaviour teaches them that good things happen away from the counters.
Teach a solid “leave it.” This command is helpful not just in the kitchen but in many situations. Start with low value items (like kibble, plain dog treats, or veggies) on the floor and reward your dog for ignoring them, gradually working up to higher temptations.
Use baby gates. If you’re cooking and can’t supervise, create barriers to keep your dog out of the kitchen.

For more training tips, visit our blog.

Tips for adopted adult dogs

If you’ve welcomed an adult dog into your home who has a history of counter surfing, don’t worry– adult dogs can learn new habits, too! Be patient and consistent:

Set them up for success. Don’t leave food unattended where they can reach it. Preventing the behaviour is easier than correcting it.
Stick to routines. Predictable mealtimes and regular training sessions help your new dog settle in and understand boundaries.
Use positive reinforcement. Avoid punishment, which can create fear or confusion. Instead, reward behaviours you want to see repeated.

With time, patience, and consistency, your dog can learn that the counter is off limits. By providing structure, enrichment, and clear boundaries, you’ll help keep your four-legged friend safe and your snacks secure!