Page 15 – Ontario SPCA

During summer months, many families will head to the cottage! The cottage setting is very different than your furry friend’s normal routine at home and there are safety considerations to keep in mind to make it an enjoyable cottage season for everyone.

Arriving safely

For your animal’s safety and your own, keep them in the back seat, either in a carrier or pet seatbelt (a special harness that attaches to the car’s seatbelt) when driving to the cottage. To help keep your animal comfortable throughout the trip:

Keep the car at a comfortable temperature, using air conditioning when necessary. Never leave your animal alone inside the vehicle, even with windows partially open. Even a short time in a hot environment can be life-threatening for your pet. 
Run errands before you hit the road to minimize the need for stops. This is critical if you are travelling alone and do not have someone to stay with your pet if you need to leave the vehicle.
Feed your furry friend a light meal at least four hours before the trip (to help prevent car sickness).
Prevent your animal from sticking their head out the window (sudden stops and debris can cause injury).
Schedule rest stops every two to four hours for exercise, bathroom and water breaks (bring a litter box for cats).
Attach your animal’s leash before opening the car door to prevent them from accidentally escaping.
If your pet is not used to travelling, use a harness (it’s more difficult for your pet to wriggle out of).
Keep the car sound system volume moderate as cats and dogs have sensitive hearing.

Pets on the loose!

People sometimes think that in a cottage setting, companion animals can be allowed to run free. The sad truth is that many of these animals become lost, are hit by cars, get into fights, or run into situations with wildlife.

It’s important our furry friends stay within a safe radius of your cottage property and wear identification that has the address and phone number of your cottage. If your animal is microchipped, contact the microchip company and inform them of your weekend address and phone number. Be prepared and have the phone number of the local animal control facility and the local animal shelters in your cottage region.

Healthy = happy at the cottage

A preventative care plan for your animal will help protect them against disease and parasites, especially while at the cottage. It is recommended to speak with your veterinarian about preventative flea and tick medications, as well as to ensure your pet is up to date with all their vaccines. It is recommended to have the phone number of an emergency veterinary clinic serving your cottage area, just in case emergency veterinary attention for your animal is required.

Water safety

If you plan to take your animal out on the water boating with you, be sure to invest in a pet life jacket. Even good swimmers can tire easily in rough water, and banks and rocks along the shore may be slippery or too steep to climb up. Life jackets not only keep your pet afloat if they decide to “jump ship,” they can also help protect against hypothermia in cold water and can also make it easier to pull them back onboard. Learn how to fit your dog for a lifejacket.

It’s important to remember that it can get very hot on the boat so be sure to provide a shaded area for your pet to rest and bring plenty of fresh water to prevent dehydration and/or heatstroke. Plan stops at public rest areas where you can disembark and give your dog a break on land.

If you are planning to be on the water for a long period of time, you may need to bring a portable potty system (some dogs will use a pee pad, a square piece of turf may work for others, or look up “pets and portable potty system” for available options).

Swimming tips

Always ensure your dog is supervised at all times. Life jackets are also a good idea, particularly for older dogs, or dogs who are not strong swimmers.
Remove chain or slip collars before your dog goes into the water. These collars can snag a dog on hidden underwater obstacles, such as plants, branches or debris.
Watch the water before allowing your dog to swim. Moving water can be dangerous. Even if the water appears to be moving slowly, the volume of moving water can make it difficult for a dog to swim against the current. If the current or wind appears too strong, let your dog splash close to shore instead.
Check the water temperature. A dog will generally tire out more quickly in cold water and can lose energy, develop cramps and be at risk for hypothermia.
Call your dog out of the water before they are too tired – a tired dog has a much higher risk of drowning.

Pets and wildlife – Be aware!

Problems can arise when your pet encounters a wild animal. Pets should NOT be allowed to chase and/or injure wildlife. Keeping your pet on leash will help protect them from wildlife as well. For example, quills from a porcupine can be a very painful experience, and skunk spray can sting the eyes – plus that’s not a smell you want in your cottage! There are also illnesses that can be passed from wildlife to domestic animals.

Follow these simple suggestions to help ensure that you and your animals enjoy a relaxing time at the cottage this summer.

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

Midland, ON (Aug. 25, 2025) – In an effort to help protect pets and support pet families, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society hosted a vaccination clinic on Aug. 23 at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 80 in Midland. The clinic provided free wellness resources and core vaccinations to 18 pets whose families may otherwise face barriers to veterinary care.

With funding support from the County of Simcoe and Tay Township, as well a sponsorship from Pet Valu’s Companions for Change™ program, the event was open to individuals referred through social service agencies, and those on a subsidized income who do not have regular access to veterinary care, or don’t have a veterinarian.

In addition to vaccinations and basic wellness exams, administered by the team from the Mountainview Veterinary Clinic in Midland, attendees also had access to vital outreach services for their pets. A total of 250 lbs of pet food was distributed at the event, as well as essential pet care supplies like leashes, collars, brushes, bowls and more, ensuring that pets are not only protected, but also supported with the essentials they need to thrive. Nail trims were also generously provided by The Groomers in Midland.

A second clinic will be held at the same location on Sept. 20 to provide booster shots. Vaccinations and wellness examinations will also be available at that event for those who qualify and were unable to attend the August clinic.

“The Ontario SPCA is committed to helping keep animals with the families who love them, and one of the ways we are doing that is by ensuring underserved communities can also access the care they need for their furry family members,” says Victoria Hiorth, Central Regional Manager of Community Outreach Services with the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “By providing accessible veterinary care, we’re helping animals stay happy and healthy, while also supporting the well-being of our community. When pets thrive, families and communities do, too.”

For more information on how to support community outreach efforts, visit ontariospca.ca/communitysupport

Media Contact:

Krista Grant
Community Outreach Coordinator
Ontario SPCA Midland & District Animal Centre
[email protected]705-534-4459 x 374

About 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 Midland & District Animal Centre is located on land which is the traditional and treaty territory of the Anishinabek people, now known as the Chippewa Tri-Council comprised of Beausoleil First Nation, Rama First Nation and the Georgina Island First Nation.

Imagine you’re walking on the pavement with bare feet – is it too hot for you? It’s probably too hot for your dog, too. Today we share tips for protecting the pads of your dog’s feet in the summer heat!

Why is this important?

It’s common to think dogs’ feet are tough, so they won’t be affected by heat, but this isn’t true. The pads of a dog’s feet can actually burn easily on hot days and scorching hot asphalt, cement, or other surfaces.

Since our dogs can’t directly tell us when their feet are hurting, here are a few signs to watch for.

Signs of burnt pads can include:

Limping, licking or chewing feet
Refusing to walk
Missing part of pad
Blisters or redness

If you see any symptoms like this, contact your veterinarian immediately.

When your dog is on a leash, they rely on you to guide and protect them, so they won’t let you know if they’re hurting. Don’t let them down!

Tips to avoid burnt pads

There are options in the summer to ensure your dog still gets their exercise while also staying safe.

Walk your dog on the cool side of the street where there’s shade or grass to cool down the surface. Consider going for your longer walks only in the early morning or evening, when you can guarantee it won’t be too hot for your furry friend.

If you see an animal suffering in the heat, call the Provincial Animal Welfare Services at 1-833-9ANIMAL or your local police. If an animal is in immediate danger, call 911.

Visit our blog for more helpful tips on summer safety and your furry friend!

Meet Doug, a delightful five-year-old American Bulldog who has transformed from a resilient stray into a beloved family member. Doug’s journey began at the Ontario Stormont Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre in Cornwall, where he arrived in unfortunate circumstances – underweight and grappling with skin problems. Found wandering the streets of Cornwall, he was brought to the centre by a compassionate individual who recognized his urgent need for help.

It was clear Doug had been through a lot. He was emaciated and his coat appeared dull and patchy during the routine examination. The shelter environment seemed to further overwhelm him. “Doug was highly stressed in a shelter environment, displaying signs of anxiety. He barked a lot and had trouble finding peace,” says Candice Gordon, Manager of the Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre.

Yet, beneath his anxious exterior, Doug had a gentle soul. Whenever anyone from the staff visited him, he would instinctively curl up in their laps, craving affection and comfort. Doug was placed in a foster home where he began to blossom.

When Hayley, one of the animal centre’s dedicated foster volunteers, welcomed Doug into her home, she was excited, but didn’t know how Doug would settle into his new surroundings. “At first, he was shy and apprehensive around my dad, barking to maintain some distance. However, we connected immediately,” she says. Over the next few weeks, Doug steadily gained weight until he was healthy enough for his neuter surgery – a pivotal moment in his journey!

The day of Doug’s surgery was bittersweet for Hayley. The emotions hit her hard as she realized this would be one of the last moments she shared with him before the adoption process began.

“It was tough to say goodbye,” she says. “I even called the SPCA half an hour later to let them know I wanted to adopt him! I picked him up that same day, and he has been part of our family ever since.”

Now, Doug flourishes in his forever home, embodying sweetness and joy. He’s always up for an adventure but never refuses a cozy cuddle at the day’s end.

“Doug is healthy, with no fears about food or love. He has plenty of space to run and play, and his happiness fills our hearts. We truly love him!” says Hayley.

Hayley’s experience in fostering opened her eyes to the transformative bond between people and animals. “Even though my first fostering was a joyful failure. I absolutely plan to foster again. It enriches life for both the animals and us,” she says.

Interested in becoming a foster volunteer for the Ontario and Humane Society? Visit our website to learn more and apply today!

As a cat parent, you will always want what is best for your fur baby. With plenty of tips and tricks out there, we’ve narrowed down five things you can implement into your routine to improve your cat’s quality of life. We hope you find these tips useful in caring for your fur baby.

Provide regular veterinary care

Routine veterinary checkups are important in any furry friend’s life. Cats are great at hiding their pain, along with any signs of illness, which may lead you to believe there is no cause for concern. And while there may not be, it is still important to get your companion animal checked regularly. Early symptoms of disease are often subtle and difficult to notice, especially for older cats, when these signs may even be misinterpreted changes associated with aging.

For more tips on making your cat’s visit to the vet Fear Free, check out this blog.

Have supervised outdoor time and keep up with vaccinations

Cats are known to be independent animals. While they can certainly benefit from supervised outdoor time, it is important to ensure that you are taking all necessary precautions before opening any doors for your feline friend.

Remember that although your cat lives indoors, they are still susceptible to fleas and other parasites. Fleas can easily make their way indoors, attaching onto clothing or through tiny openings in screens and doors. The same can be said for mosquitoes, which can potentially expose your cat to heartworms. Other pets, like dogs, also have the potential to pass along illnesses and fleas.

Speak with your veterinarian about the best parasite prevention for your cat and ensure they are up to date on all necessary vaccinations.

Encourage healthy habits for a healthy weight

Obesity is one of the most common problems veterinarians diagnose in cats. Obesity often leads to greater health complications including skin, joint, heart and urinary diseases, tumors, metabolic disorders, inflammation, respiratory dysfunction and more. Studies reveal that cats with excess weight may also live shorter lives. Ensure you are choosing the right diet for your cat and they are getting exercise regularly.

For more on obesity in cats, visit our blog, Three hidden costs of animal obesity.

Learn more about encouraging healthy habits for a healthy weight, here!

Prioritize their oral care

It may not be an easy task to get your cat to hold still while you brush their teeth, but their oral care is particularly important. Dental disease is common in cats over the age of three. With lots of patience and some conditioning, many cats may tolerate teeth brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste. Speak with your veterinarian about the best options to help keep your cat’s mouth healthy and pain free.

For more on dental health tips for pets, read our blog.

Spay or neuter to prevent pet overpopulation

The ongoing pet overpopulation issue is a direct result of animals left unaltered, resulting in thousands of homeless animals across the province who end up in shelters, or on the streets. Spaying and neutering are straightforward medical procedures with many health benefits, including a reduction in the risk of developing certain cancers and illnesses.

By eliminating the drive to reproduce, spaying or neutering can eliminate unwanted behaviours such as aggression, the desire to wander or escape, and inappropriate urination or marking.

Find a local veterinarian in your area.

Written by Dr. Joey Tang, DVM

What is it?

Canine Parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious and deadly virus in dogs that commonly causes illness in young puppies, targeting the gastrointestinal (GI) system, and potentially causing death if left untreated.

The virus is shed by infected dogs via their fecal material, and because it is an extremely hardy virus, it can survive in most environments for months. Therefore a dog can be exposed to CPV at any time (including in lawns, dog parks, and homes), making prevention (vaccination) of the utmost importance.

Signs and symptoms

The clinical signs that are most associated with CPV infection is vomiting and diarrhea. More specifically, diarrhea that has digested blood (melena) in puppies is considered a stereotypical sign of CPV infection. Additionally, lethargy, depression and loss of appetite are also common findings.

Diagnosis

The most common, and easily accessible, test available for CPV is the fecal ELISA test (sometimes called the SNAP test). Only a small fecal sample is needed for this test, and it only takes 15-30 minutes to complete. Although it is considered relatively accurate, false positives or false negatives can occasionally occur, therefore sometimes further testing may be needed to confirm diagnosis.

Other testing may include a fecal PCR test and bloodwork. The fecal PCR test is very accurate (more than the SNAP), however requires the fecal sample to be sent to a diagnostic laboratory to be performed, therefore requires more time. Bloodwork can also be beneficial to investigate and measure the white blood cell count of the dog. Since the bone marrow is one of the first organs targeted by the virus, a low white blood cell count (along with a positive SNAP test) is typically suggestive of a Parvovirus infection.

Treatment and prevention

Unfortunately, there is currently no direct treatment or cure for the viral infection, therefore treatment typically involves supportive care and management of the clinical signs. This can vary depending on how ill the dog is and the clinical signs being observed.

Supportive care could include hospitalization and intravenous (IV) fluids to help with dehydration that is typically found secondary to the vomiting and diarrhea. Antibiotics may also be started to help fight possible secondary infections. Anti-nausea and medications to aid with the diarrhea may also be beneficial for management of clinical signs.

Although there isn’t any treatment for this viral infection, there are numerous effective vaccinations against CPV, and vaccinating against CPV is considered a ‘core’ vaccination for all puppies (regardless of lifestyle).

When the summer heat hits, many of us may be heading out to the beach, cottage, or pool to cool down! Before you do that though, here are some important tips you need to know about spending time with your furry friends around the water.

Water Safety Tips

Swimming safety: Not all dogs are good swimmers and are at a greater risk of drowning! Don’t assume your dog will be fine in the water and never leave your dog unsupervised by any body of water. Swimming is also very tiring, so make sure your dog takes breaks and has rest periods (preferably in the shade).
Sunburn watch: Always watch your dog for signs of sunburn or heat stroke.
Life jackets: Buying your dog a life jacket is also very important! Even if they are strong swimmers, there may be a strong current, and you can’t always know your dog’s stamina. Life jackets are essential if you plan on taking your dog boating. A dog overboard can quickly be lost in the waves. A life jacket will keep them buoyant, make them easier to spot in the water, and give you something to grab onto to pull them back on board.
Know your own strength: Remember that your dog will be much heavier when being pulled out of the water than on land. If you’re out on a boat, make sure you know you can pull your dog back in if they fall out!
Careful on sand: Hot sand can blister your dog’s paws, so keep them off it as much as possible. Check the sand with the back of your hand to determine if it’s too hot or not.
Leaving collars behind: Take your dog’s collar off before they go swimming. This will keep them from snagging or getting it caught on underwater plants or branches. Also, watch out for hazards around where your dog will be swimming.
Freshwater is crucial: When by a pool or lake, have a source of fresh water nearby. There are chemicals in pools that can give your furry friend a stomachache, and lakes can contain parasites that can cause vomiting, and diarrhea, among other health issues. At the end of the day, it’s a good idea to rinse your dog off with fresh, clean, water.
Watch out for stagnant water: Blue-green algae, specifically, can endanger the life of your companion animal. This algae forms on or near bodies of water during warm weather months. It can be found in ponds and lakes, fresh water, backyard fountains, or even on rocks. Your dog can be affected if they drink from or swim in contaminated sources.
Signs of heatstroke: High temperatures can put our furry friends at risk, which is why every pet parent should be aware of the signs of heatstroke and take extra precautions during warm weather. Read here to learn about these signs.

If you follow these tips, you’ll be one step closer to keeping your dog safe and healthy this summer!

No Excuses. No Hot Pets.

If you’re taking your animals anywhere with you this summer, remember that leaving them unattended in a vehicle can be life-threatening. In the summer heat, cars can quickly read deadly temperatures, even on mild days with the car parked in the shade and the windows slightly open.

Pledge to protect your animals at nohotpets.ca and share this message on social media using #NoHotPets!

Desensitization and counter conditioning are highly effective techniques for addressing touch sensitivity in cats. These methods gradually transform a cat’s negative or neutral emotional reactions to touch or petting into positive associations. By pairing touch with rewards or pleasant experiences, cats learn to perceive touch as non-threatening or enjoyable.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Quiet room/area 
Item such as pen, back scratcher, end of wand toy, tongue depressor etc.
High value spreadable treats (ex. Popsicle stick with wet food, chicken baby food)  
High value solid treats
Clicker (optional)

 Remember to constantly monitor the cat’s body language and watch for signs of fear, anxiety and stress. Keep training sessions positive and short – no more than 3-5 minutes – taking frequent breaks where needed.

Some cats may be very fearful of hands approaching, so we will work to get cats comfortable with the feeling of touch before working towards getting them comfortable with a hand approaching.

 The process:

A typical desensitization and counter conditioning set up may look like:

A known trigger enters the space at a distance while the animal is below threshold. The animal receives high value food whenever the trigger is present.
Exposure to trigger and reward is repeated below threshold until the trigger no longer elicits unwanted response or behaviour.
This process is repeated while distance decreases until the animal no longer displays unwanted responses.
The same can be done with sound. A sound is introduced at a very low level and the animal receives a reward. Eventually the sound is increased in volume or intensity under threshold, slowly changing the conditioned emotional response and any unwanted behaviours.

Steps:

Step 1: Eating next to you

Start by feeding the cat by positioning its dish close to you, trying to keep the cat parallel and facing the same direction as you, or with its head angled away from you.
Sometimes this may need to be started by just feeding in the same space and slowly moving the bowl closer to you over time.
Once the cat is consistently eating next to you, you can begin the next steps.

Step 2: Starting touch

Start by touching the cat around the shoulder area. If they continue to eat, count to 3 then stop touching. Repeat
This can be done with a pen, back scratcher, end of wand toy or similar. Ensure touch begins light.
If the cat startles and turns to look at you, remain still and see if they return to eating. If they do go back to eating, wait a few moments before trying touch again.
If the cat runs away, stop what you’re doing and go back to step 1.

Step 3: Changing areas and pressure

Once the cat is displaying comfort with the light touch, begin to pet the cat around the top of the head and neck area with gentle pressure.
As long as cat remains comfortable and eating, continue to increase pressure until petting normally. You may also start petting with hands if previously using an item to touch the cat.
Using the “three-pet rule” continue to pet the cat while watching their body language to ensure they are enjoying petting. For example, pushing into you or soliciting by moving closer.
Always finish petting before the cat finishes eating.
Once the cat is actively enjoying petting, begin attempting petting when they may be facing away but no food is placed down, or if you toss a treat. Gradually increase the duration you are petting.

Hand approach

Once a cat is comfortable with petting without seeing your hands, you can begin to show them hands before petting.

Step 4: Eating off an item

Using a longer item (back scratcher, pen, stick, end of wand toy etc.) place tasty food or treats on the end and begin feeding.
If cat is actively taking food off the item, you can start to shorten it by grasping it further up or switching to a shorter item.
Once you can place the item and food as close to your hand as possible and the cat consistently eats, you can start to place a treat, or high value food on a finger and offer it to the cat.
If the cat begins consistently eating off your hand, you can begin introducing your other hand by approaching slowly from the side.
If the cat stops eating, remove both hands and try again with your hands approaching from further away.
If the cat continues to eat consistently, work on moving closer to the cat.

Step 5: Moving closer

Begin moving the second hand closer as long as the cat continues eating. Repeat this several times until you are almost touching, then move to next step.
Once the cat is consistently eating while your hand approaches, you can begin to touch very lightly with your second hand.
If the cat continues eating, move to step 6. If the cat startles or runs away, remain still and go back to step 4.

Step 6: Petting

Continue petting lightly for several repetitions.
Once cat is actively enjoying petting, you can begin removing food or offering it while second hand approaches.
Begin petting sessions by offering your hand a couple of inches away from cat. If the cat solicits by pushing into hand, you may start petting following the “three-pet rule.”

If you need assistance, contact a professional trainer or behaviour consultant.

Storms can be scary for both humans and animals, but it’s important to remember that your furry friends rely on you for their safety. You’re also responsible for making them feel safe! Thanks to our friends at the ASPCA, here are some tips for weathering summer storms with your furry friends.

Be fully prepared

Even before a storm hits, it’s important to plan ahead so you can ensure you’re prepared for an emergency. During a severe storm, you want to be prepared with a pet first-aid kit, as well as a 72-hour survival kit for you and your pets. For a list of items for this kit, see our Emergency Preparedness page. You’ll also want to ensure your pet wears a properly fitted collar and ID tags. Microchipping is also encouraged to help increase the chances of being reunited with your pets if they become lost.

Take cover

First things first, you and your animal need proper shelter. If a storm is severe enough, you should head into your basement if you have one. Make sure you have a space in your shelter to make your furry friend feel comfortable in case you need to shelter in place for a while.

You should also keep animals indoors, making sure to close windows and doors. Startled animals may seek a place to hide and if they manage to get outside, it can be easy to lose them. If you need to take your dog outside, keep them leashed at all times to prevent them from bolting and becoming lost.

Dangerous toxins

If you choose your basement as a shelter in case of emergencies, it’s important to be aware of what toxic chemicals may be stored down there. As curious creatures, animals may feel the need to sniff or potentially taste the chemical if they have the opportunity. It’s important to keep these products far away from where you and your furry friends are hiding out.

Hide and seek

Animals often have favourite hiding spots they like to go to if they are anxious or scared. It is important for caregivers to know where these spots are in case evacuation is necessary and their furry friend is winning the game of hide and seek.

It is important to be prepared for when the thunderstorms come rolling in. Feel free to share these tips from the ASPCA’s “5 Pet Safety Tips for Storm Preparedness” with your friends! Let’s help each other be prepared for the next summer storm.

Light pollution is often seen as a problem for humans, disrupting our sleep and spoiling our view of the night sky. However, did you know light pollution can also span beyond urban areas into the natural world?

Wildlife, particularly nocturnal animals, rely on darkness for navigation, hunting, mating, and migration. The intrusion of artificial light is disrupting these vital behaviours, often with devastating consequences.

How light pollution affects wildlife

Wildlife has evolved to thrive in the rhythms of natural light and darkness. For example, sea turtles use the moonlight to find their way to the ocean after hatching. Bright lights along beaches can disorient them, causing them to head in the wrong direction, often toward danger or populated areas. Similarly, migratory birds, which rely on the stars to guide their long journeys, can become disoriented by bright lights from buildings and towers. The result can be fatal, as these birds crash into buildings or become exhausted by prolonged flights.

Even creatures that aren’t necessarily nocturnal, like certain insects and amphibians, are impacted. Moths and other insects are drawn to artificial lights, which disrupt their mating patterns and predation cycles. In turn, this affects the broader ecosystem, as these insects are a food source for many animals, including bats, birds, and frogs.

What you can do to help

While the effects of light pollution on wildlife are concerning, there are simple steps we can all take to minimize our impact:

Use outdoor lighting wisely: Switch off unnecessary lights and use motion sensors or timers to reduce lighting during the night. This minimizes light exposure to wildlife and saves energy.
Install shielded lighting: Install lighting that directs the light downward rather than upwards into the sky. This prevents light from spilling into areas where wildlife is active.
Opt for wildlife-friendly lighting: Choose lights with lower colour temperatures (warm lights) that are less disruptive to animals. Avoid bright white or blue lights, which are more harmful to wildlife.
Spread the word: Inform your family and friends about wildlife-friendly lighting practices that reduce light pollution.

Light pollution is a growing concern for wildlife, affecting species in ways that are often overlooked. By making conscious choices about how we use and manage light, we can help mitigate the negative impact on animals that rely on natural darkness for survival. A small change on our part can make a big difference for the creatures sharing our planet.

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. Please consider donating today.

During the hot summer months, it’s important to know how to keep our furry friends cool and comfortable. Here are some dos and don’ts about summer safety for pets!

DO: Make sure your furry friends always have access to fresh water and a cool, sheltered place out of direct sunlight to avoid heat-related illness, including heatstroke. Learn how to identify the signs of heatstroke by reading our blog.

DON’T: Leave pets outside for too long. If possible, avoid going outside when temperatures are at their highest. Limit your time outside to short periods at a time and try to go for walks in the early mornings or evenings when the weather is a little cooler. Avoid hot pavement to prevent burnt pads.

DO: Know whether your dog is more susceptible to heat exposure. Certain breeds of dogs, such as Northern breeds or short-muzzled dogs, can have a more difficult time with the heat. Other dogs who may be more vulnerable to the heat include dogs who are older, overweight, on certain medications, puppies, and dogs with certain medical conditions such as lung or heart disease.

DON’T: Leave your pet alone in a vehicle, even if the car is parked in the shade with the windows down. Dogs have a limited ability to sweat, so even a short time in a hot environment can be life threatening.

 You can save a life when you report animals left unattended in vehicles by calling the Province of Ontario’s Provincial Animal Welfare Services at 1-833-9Animal, or your local police. The Ontario SPCA is not who to call if you see an animal in a car. If you see an animal in immediate danger, call 911.

Dogs should also never ride in the back of a pick-up truck, even for a short distance. Your dog may be thrown from the truck, get an injury from flying debris, or burn their paws on the hot metal surface.

DO: Enjoy some quality time with your dog this summer! Play some games, make some memories, and stay cool, hydrated, and safe!

Fleas are common among our furry friends, especially the animals who play outside. Periodically checking your furry friends for fleas is important for good health.

Step 1: Comb your furry friend’s hair 

For the time that fleas spend on your pet, they are often found along the lower back and near the base of the tail. Comb the hair back towards the head to be able to better see the skin.
Although you may not see fleas, look for “flea dirt” or spots of dried blood that look like black pepper. If you notice black peppery spots in the fur, it could be an indication there are fleas.

Step 2: Wipe with a moist towel 

Take a moist tissue or paper towel and wipe the area. If a rusty or brownish-red colour comes off, this is most likely from specks of dried blood, indicating that your furry friend may have fleas. 
If you think you may have identified fleas, or if you can’t identify fleas but have concerns they may be present, contact your veterinarian for guidance about effective flea control strategies. We encourage pet parents to use caution when sourcing flea medications as some products that may be safe to use for dogs, for example, may not be safe for cats and can be toxic or life-threatening if applied.
Your veterinarian will be able to give you tips on prevention, treatment, and how to clean your house after one of your companion animals bring fleas inside, but here are a few tips to get you started!

Eliminating fleas

If your pet has fleas, consult with your veterinarian first before trying any products. Your veterinarian can help you develop a good treatment and prevention program.
Thoroughly clean all areas your furry friend frequents, such as bedding, furniture, carpeted areas, and where the baseboards and carpet meet. Make sure to dispose of your vacuum bag or dust chamber in the garbage outside.
Put all bedding through the wash and dry thoroughly.  Make sure to wash your own clothes, too.
When searching for a product to kill off fleas, look for an option that tackles the entire lifecycle of a flea, including eggs, larvae and adults. Some products will just kill adult fleas on contact, but won’t eliminate the larva stage of the flea, or the eggs. Consult your veterinarian to ensure that the product is safe to use around your pets.
If the flea situation is so bad that you can see fleas jumping on your companion animal and your carpet, you may need to get a professional exterminator. Again, always consult your veterinarian to ensure the safety of any products.

For more information on fleas, ticks, and your furry friend, visit our blog.