Page 22 – Ontario SPCA

Twix’s story began at the Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre, where this one-year-old Mastiff arrived in a heartbreaking state, suffering from severe malnutrition. His emaciated body revealed his struggle for survival, weighing a mere 15 kilograms when he should have been around 25. His body condition was rated at just one out of five, indicating he was almost entirely skin and bones, which underscored his critical state. The staff also discovered open wounds on his legs and ears, emphasizing the urgent need for medical care. .

A patient recovery

To aid in his recovery, his animal care team took immediate action, putting Twix under close medical supervision and placing him on a carefully managed refeeding program. This was essential to avoid refeeding syndrome—a serious condition that can arise when feeding is rushed after a period of starvation. Slowly easing food into his diet allowed his body to adapt, and over the following weeks, Twix began to show signs of recovery. His caregivers worked not only on restoring his physical health, but also on helping him feel safe and secure. Bit by bit, he regained his strength, and each small increase in weight and energy marked a significant victory in his path to wellness.

A fresh start

As Twix transformed, he was lovingly renamed Bo, symbolizing his fresh start. His personality blossomed as he became comfortable in his new environment. Affectionate and sweet, Bo was eager to make friends, quickly warming up to new people, especially with the help of treats. Though he initially displayed caution by barking at strangers, that behaviour faded as he learned to trust. His protective nature emerged, as he formed strong bonds with his adoptive family, particularly his feline sisters, Bird and Bee, whom he cherishes.

A happy tail ending

Bo has since become a source of joy for his family, even accompanying his pet parent, Ellyssa, at work a few times a week. Together, they are working on leash manners with the guidance of trainers, and despite his energetic disposition, Bo is making great strides. His adventures include meeting new dogs and expanding his circle of friends with each outing.

Today, Bo’s journey from despair to delight exemplifies the power of love, care, and dedication. Every wag of his tail reminds us of how far he has come and the bright future that lies ahead for him and his new family.

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. Please consider donating today to help more animals like Bo get the second chance they deserve.

Everybody loves a long weekend – including our furry friends! It means more quality time with the people they love. But there are also some safety concerns to keep in mind so your furry friend can be comfortable and safe. Here are some firework safety tips to keep your animals safe this weekend!

What’s the concern with fireworks?

Fireworks can be lots of fun, but pet parents should be aware fireworks are a completely foreign experience for our furry friends. Fireworks come without warning and can be very frightening. The sounds, smells and sights can be easily overwhelming for our furry friends.

Even if you live far from any public firework displays, be prepared for private fireworks close to home. Before any fireworks start, follow these simple tips to keep your companion animal calm and safe.

Small pets

Small animals (e.g., hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, rabbits, mice and birds) tend to frighten easily around loud noises. Here are some steps you can take to help them feel more at ease:

If you’re concerned about noise, you can move your animal’s cage or hutch to an area of the house that’s quieter (e.g., the garage or basement).
You can play white noise or calming music to help counteract the noises.
Rodents tend to burrow when they’re frightened, so make sure you provide extra bedding before any excitement starts.
Cover your birdcage or hutch with a blanket or towel. This will dampen the noise and block out some of the bright lights.

Dogs and cats

Keep your furry friend indoors during firework displays, and make sure to close windows and pet doors leading outside. Startled animals will seek a place to hide. This means if your cat or dog manages to get outside, it can be very easy to lose them. Being inside the house will also help dampen any loud noises.
Make sure your animal is wearing its collar and ID tags. Microchipping is also recommended. In case your furry friend does get out, these steps will ensure you can find them again.
Walk your dog before it gets dark to avoid going outside once the fireworks start.
Have a safe place for your companion animal to feel at ease, like a crate or other enclosed space.
You can block out some of the flashing lights by keeping curtains closed and lights on, or by placing a blanket over your animal’s crate.
Your furry friend may pace around, make noise or search for a place to hide. Let them be.
If you know that your companion animal is frightened by fireworks, try to have someone at home to stay with your pet.
Even if your animal doesn’t show signs of distress around fireworks, resist the urge to bring your cat or dog with you to watch a fireworks display. Animals are far more sensitive to the sounds and smells produced by fireworks and would be much happier having a quiet night in.
If your companion animal has a history of fear around loud noises or phobias with similar events speak to your veterinarian prior to any fireworks event. They may be able to help with medical intervention that can help keep your furry friends calm, and cool during all the excitement!

For additional tips on how to keep your furry friend calm during firework celebrations during the long weekend, talk to your veterinarian or a certified positive reinforcement-based behaviour expert.

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.

The Pride Parade in Toronto is a tradition celebrating the LGBTQ2S+ community during Pride Month. If you’re thinking about donning a costume with your furry friend to celebrate, here’s what you need to know.

Prepare to party

Ensure your animal companion is comfortable in a costume and enjoys wearing one. Safety and comfort are the top concerns. Your animals may not want to get dressed up and that’s okay! You can still have fun in a costume of your own.

With a little patience and practice, many animals will wear a costume comfortably. Ensure the costume experience will be a positive one by taking your time and making sure your four-legged friend is comfortable dressing up.

Have a dress rehearsal

A week or a few days before the event, bring out the costume, and let your animal smell and explore it. Reward them with a treat. Then try wrapping a towel, cape-style around your critter and see how they do. Reward them and keep your tone light and relaxed.

Listen to their feedback

Animals often don’t feel comfortable with items on their head, or around their neck. Constant shaking, scratching or rubbing to dislodge the item indicates your animal doesn’t like the idea. You may need to modify your costume ideas accordingly.

Avoid human hair dye products

Do not use human hair dyes on your animal. They are toxic to animals! Glitter is also something to avoid when creating a costume for your furry friend.

Safety and security for your animal should be your primary concern at all times. You don’t want your animal tripping, or ingesting pieces of the costume. If you plan on taking your dog for a walk with the costume on, you need to be sure their leash or harness can still be worn comfortably and securely.

If not, you may just want to share pictures or a video of your furry friend from the comfort of your home. Then, you can enjoy a lovely walk with your animal, without the constraints of a costume.

Parade Day

On parade day, get dressed up and have fun! Document the process of getting in costume, FaceTime a friend or take selfies with you and your costumed critter, as you watch the parade and celebrate Pride.

What better way to celebrate love than with your four-legged friends?

Thor and Odin’s journey could have ended before it truly began, but thanks to the compassion of caring adopters and the deep bond between these two guinea pigs, their tale took a remarkable turn.

When Thor and Odin arrived at the Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre, both guinea pigs weighed only a pound, had overgrown nails, and needed crucial dental work.

“Upon intake, we discovered their body condition was a concerning one out of five, which means they were severely underweight,” says Janna Handiak, Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre Manager. “Their overgrown teeth suggested a dental issue that hampered their ability to eat, and their droppings looked unusual — almost as if they were subsisting on wood chips.”

Acting promptly, the animal care team brought them to the veterinary clinic for examination. Following a critical care approach that involved hand feeding and regular weigh-ins. the team at the animal centre worked at bringing this pair of guinea pigs back to health.

“Miraculously, this bonded pair – who loved to snuggle – began to gain weight. Over time, they started devouring everything we provided,” says Janna. “To help them eat comfortably, they underwent dental work.”

Fortunately, their luck turned when a wonderful pair of adopters stepped up, and Thor and Odin were adopted together. Renamed Lucky and Connor, these little fur babies are now living their best lives, often exploring grassy areas with their adopter and indulging in their favorite treat: dandelions.

This heartwarming transformation showcases the importance of compassion and the bonds that can truly change lives.

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 like Odin and Thor. Please consider donating today.

Donate now

Just like people, cats and dogs can suffer from food allergies. While not as common as environmental allergies, food sensitivities can cause uncomfortable symptoms and impact your animal’s quality of life. Sometimes animals can have both environment and food allergies, and it can be hard to differentiate between the two. Knowing the signs and how to manage food allergies can help keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

Common food allergens

The most frequent food allergens for cats and dogs include:

Proteins: Beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, fish
Grains: Wheat, corn, soy (less common)
Other ingredients: Certain additives, artificial colours, or preservatives

It’s important to note that it’s often the protein source, not the grain, that triggers an allergic reaction.

Signs & symptoms

Food allergies can affect animals in a variety of ways. Here’s what to watch for:

Skin issues: Itching, redness, rashes, frequent scratching, ear infections, hair loss
Digestive upset: Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas
Behaviour changes: Discomfort, restlessness, over-grooming

If your furry friend is showing persistent symptoms, it’s time to talk to your veterinarian.

How food allergies are diagnosed

The gold standard for diagnosing food allergies is an elimination diet trial. This involves feeding a diet with a new protein—one they’ve never eaten before—for eight to 12 weeks. If symptoms improve and then return when the old food is reintroduced, a food allergy is confirmed. Serum allergy testing in also an option and is as reliable as the elimination diet trial.

Treatment and management

The best treatment is avoiding the allergen. Your veterinarian may recommend:

Veterinary-prescribed food tailored for sensitive pets
Homemade diets, carefully balanced under veterinary guidance

Additionally, supportive care—like medicated baths, supplements, or medications—may help manage symptoms during the transition.

Read the blog “Pet Allergies and How to Manage Them” for additional tips.

Food allergies can be frustrating for both animals and their people, but with patience and the right veterinary support, most animals can thrive on a new diet. If you suspect a food allergy, reach out to your veterinarian.

As temperatures rise, so does the risk for animals left in hot vehicles or outside without proper care. This summer, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is calling on all animal lovers to help protect our furry friends by taking the No Hot Pets pledge.

Take the pledge

By pledging your support, you’re not only raising awareness—you’re taking action. Share the No Hot Pets message on social media, talk to local businesses about becoming pet-friendly supporters, and encourage your municipality to pass bylaws that prevent animals from being left unattended in vehicles. Every voice counts, and your advocacy could save a life.

What to do

Even on mild days, the temperature inside a parked car can quickly climb to dangerous levels, putting pets at serious risk of heatstroke or death—even with windows cracked and the vehicle in the shade. Animals left outside without access to shade or fresh water are also vulnerable in the summer heat.

If you see an animal in distress, don’t wait—get help. Call the Ontario government’s Provincial Animal Welfare Services at 1-833-9ANIMAL or your local police. If it’s a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

No Excuses. No Hot Pets.

Visit nohotpets.ca to access free resources, care tips, and digital tools to help spread the word. While you’re there, don’t forget to enter the No Hot Pets contest before August 31 for your chance to win a YETI summer prize pack—because keeping pets cool should be a win for everyone.

This summer, be a voice for animals. Take the pledge. Share the message. Save a life.

Visit nohotpets.ca

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (June 20, 2025) – Summer fun is heating up, but let’s make sure our furry friends stay cool! The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is kicking off its annual No Hot Pets campaign and inviting you to be an advocate for animals by taking the No Hot Pets pledge at nohotpets.ca. By taking the pledge at nohotpets.ca, you’ll not only show your commitment to protecting animals, but you’ll also be entered for a chance to win a cool YETI summer prize pack.

Getting involved in the No Hot Pets campaign is easy! Here’s how you can keep tails wagging this summer:

Take the pledge at nohotpets.ca and encourage your friends to do the same.
Share the message on social media using fun, ready-to-go graphics and tips from the digital toolkit available at nohotpets.ca
Talk to local businesses about supporting No Hot Pets by displaying posters and spreading awareness. They can request a free poster for their front door.
Ask your town or city to help protect pets by passing bylaws that prevent animals from being left in hot vehicles.

The No Hot Pets website also has great resources to help you speak up for animals, plus handy hot weather pet care tips.

“It only takes a few minutes for the inside of a parked car to turn into an oven,” says Jennifer Bluhm, Vice President, Community Outreach Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Even if you crack the windows or park in the shade, it can be life threatening for your pet. If you can’t bring them with you when you get to your destination, leave them at home where they’re safe.”

If you see an animal in distress this summer, get help! Call the government’s Provincial Animal Welfare Services at 1-833-9ANIMAL, or your local police. If it’s a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

Together, we can make this summer safer for animals across Ontario.

Media Contact:

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

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 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.

With many parts of Canada affected by wildfires, it’s important to take extra precautions to protect your pets from the harmful effects of smoke. Just like people, animals are at risk of respiratory issues and other health concerns when air quality is poor.

Safety considerations

Limit outdoor time as much as possible. While bathroom breaks are necessary, avoid long walks or extended playtime outside. Check your local air quality advisories and keep pets indoors as much as possible whenever conditions are poor.

Protect your home environment by closing windows and doors to keep smoke out. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters if available and run your air conditioner in recirculation mode to prevent bringing in outdoor air. If you notice signs of smoke irritation in your pet—such as coughing, red or watery eyes, sneezing, lethargy, or trouble breathing, contact your veterinarian right away.

Certain animals are more vulnerable to smoke, including flat-faced breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats. Puppies, kittens, senior animals, and pets with pre-existing medical conditions are also at increased risk. Be especially cautious and consult your vet if you’re unsure how to best protect them.

Looking for ways to keep your pet active indoors? Visit our blog for indoor play ideas that can help your furry companion stay stimulated without going outside.

Be prepared

If you must evacuate, take your animals with you. Have a plan in place to evacuate your family, including your animals, as early as possible. Evacuating before conditions become severe helps keep everyone safer and reduces stress levels. Learn how to include your pet in your emergency plan.

Smoke from wildfires can be dangerous—but with the right steps, you can help keep your animals safe and healthy. Stay informed, be prepared, and don’t forget to check in on your furry friends.

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.To support the Ontario SPCA’s Wildfire Emergency Fund, visit ontariospca.ca

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Akwesasne, ON (June 17, 2025) – More than 60 animals were spayed or neutered during an animal wellness event in Akwesasne, hosted by the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society in partnership with the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne.

A total 53 dogs and 10 cats were spayed or neutered at the event, which was held June 13-15, preventing close to an estimated 3,300 potentially unplanned puppies and kittens. The MASH-style event also included 16 animal wellness appointments. Held at the Kawehno:ke Recreation Center, the clinic provided essential services to Akwesasronon families and their beloved pets.

“Akwesasne Compliance would like to extend a heartfelt Nia:wenkowa (thank you very much) to the Ontario SPCA, veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary students, volunteers, and organizers who made the recent MASH Spay and Neuter Clinic a success,” says Compliance Officer Josh Mitchell at Akwesasne Compliance. “The dedicated team worked tirelessly to ensure every animal received the highest standard of care. Many cats and dogs were seen over the three days, and each family was met with compassion, professionalism, and genuine care. Your efforts went above and beyond, and your kindness did not go unnoticed.”

The Ontario SPCA is committed to reaching underserved communities with its MASH-style spay/neuter and wellness clinics. These portable outreach events are designed to be easily packed up and transported to wherever they are needed, including remote communities.Through community support services, the Ontario SPCA wants to keep animals out of shelters and with the people who love them.

We’re proud to work alongside our neighbours in Akwesasne to bring these vital animal wellness services to the community,” says Bonnie Bishop, Eastern Regional Manager of Community Outreach Services with the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Spay/neuter and wellness events like this are an important part of animal health and population management. It’s heartening to see communities so engaged in creating a healthier future for animals. Together, we’re making a difference.”

The Ontario SPCA has been working with the community of Akwesasne for a number of years to make basic animal wellness services more accessible.

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

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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

Does your cat ever get the “zoomies”? Although this behaviour is quite normal, it can also be an indicator that your furry friend is looking for some additional activity and enrichment. In today’s blog, we’re going to walk you through the “Touch the target” game and why your cat will enjoy it!

Why the touch the target game?

The targeting game can be played in very short sessions, with one cat or several. It can also be played frequently or just occasionally, and by one person or several people.

Keep training sessions short, 1-2 minutes, and take many breaks to set the cat up for success. For cats who aren’t as interested in the target, add a very small amount of high-value spreadable food at the end.

You will need:

A highly preferred food treat, such as canned tuna or tuna in a pouch
A pencil, chopstick, popsicle stick, or dowel, to serve as a target
Clicker (optional)

Teaching your cat to touch the target

Hold the target item within an inch of your cat’s head to introduce the target.
The cat should naturally put their head out to sniff the target item.
As soon as the cat touches the target with their nose, mark (click or say “yes”) and reward with a high-value treat. Read more about clicker training on our blog.
Continue steps 1-3 a few times in several different sessions, taking breaks before the cat becomes disinterested and until the cat is consistently touching the target.
Once the cat is reliably touching the target, add the verbal cue “Touch” as the cat touches the target stick, then mark (click or say “yes”) and reward.
As the cat is successfully touching the target, increase difficulty by moving the target away by 1-2inches and eventually in different areas around the cat so the cat must move to get to the target.

In later sessions, try placing the target further away from your cat so he must take a step or two towards it, offering the target when your cat is in motion, or seeing if you can get your cat to follow it.

Targeting can simply be a fun activity (you can get creative with how you use it) – or it can be used to help redirect behaviours you don’t like, such as pouncing, scratching or biting.

We hope you have fun teaching your cat this enrichment technique!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society supports Northern animals affected by wildfires

Stouffville, ON (June 16, 2025) – As wildfires continue to impact Northern Ontario and Western Canada, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is responding to support animals and families displaced by these devastating events.

“The wildfires are creating desperate situations for animals,” says Arista Wogenstahl, Northern Regional Manager, Community Outreach Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “We stay in close contact with first responders, community partners, and First Nations Chiefs, and respond quickly when requests for assistance come in – ensuring animals get the support they need, when they need it most.”

Through 11 emergency requests coordinated via the government’s Provincial Emergency Operations Centre, the Ontario SPCA has shipped over 37,000 lbs. of pet food and supplies to affected regions. The Ontario SPCA is now preparing to expand its response and is calling on the public for support.

While government resources help cover the cost of food and supplies during evacuations, donations are needed to support animals in areas at risk. This includes providing pet food, emergency supplies, transportation, and temporary sheltering. Support will also be needed in affected communities long after the fires are extinguished to ensure animals continue to receive adequate supplies and care.

Pet Valu has stepped up to support the Ontario SPCA’s emergency efforts with a $10,000 product donation through its Companions for ChangeTM program. As part of this donation, Pet Valu is sending vital supplies – including bowls, collars, leashes, crates, and food – to Thunder Bay to support relief efforts.

Animal rescue organizations looking to support animals affected by wildfires are encouraged to contact the Ontario SPCA, which is coordinating efforts and directing support to the areas that need resources.

“Right now, our greatest need is supporting communities that haven’t been evacuated but are already facing serious challenges due to wildfires,” says Wogenstahl. “When a call for help comes in, we need to be ready to support the animals impacted by the fires, both in the short term, and in the months ahead as communities recover.”

To donate to the Ontario SPCA’s Wildfire Emergency Fund, please visit: ontariospca.ca

Media Contact:

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

About the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

Training your dog “four-on-the-floor” is helpful to prevent unwanted jumping by teaching them to have all four feet on the floor. In addition to making greetings safer and more enjoyable, it will also help reduce frustration and excitement in dogs. Always remember to be consistent and patient when training your dog.

Here’s what you will need:

6’ leash
Treat pouch, or bag of bite-size treats
High and medium-value treats
Clicker (optional)

Procedure with the dog under threshold

Being “under threshold” refers to a state where an animal is calm and relaxed enough that they can exhibit normal behaviours without exhibiting signs of fear, anxiety or stress.

Begin by approaching the dog, taking a couple steps in their direction.
With a treat in hand, if the dog is not displaying any unwanted behaviours (ex. jumping, pawing, barking etc.), mark (click or “Yes”), toss a treat on the ground in front of the dog. For this exercise, do not feed from the hand.
Take a few steps in the opposite direction away from the dog.
If the dog remains on “all fours” and is quiet, take another step towards them. Mark and reward by tossing/dropping treat on the floor while ensuring the dog’s feet remain on the floor.
Continue steps 1-4 several times. Keep sessions short.
Do this multiple times a day for consistency.

If you are trying to teach “four-on-the-floor” while the dog is over-aroused (ex. jumping up, barking), follow the steps below:

While dog is already excited/ jumping etc. remain standing and still. Only turn away if the dog continually jumps, rather than jumps and leaves paws up, as movement may increase jumping.
With a treat in hand, put hand directly to the dog’s nose and lure downwards. The moment the dog’s paws hit the floor, mark (click or “Yes”) and reward by dropping the treat on the floor.
While the dog is jumping, try not to give attention to the behaviour. Avoid saying “Off” or “Down” or “No.” Simply stay still and lure dog into four feet on the floor position.
If the dog continues to jump, it may be appropriate to step on their leash or hook your thumb in their collar.
Continue to reward the dog periodically if they remain with their four feet on the floor.

Note: If a dog is displaying mouthy behaviour, please see the “De-escalation and Redirection Techniques for Dogs” resource sheet.

If your dog continues to struggle with this training, reach out to a professional trainer or behaviour consultant.