Page 22 – Ontario SPCA

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.

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.

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.

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.

Camping is a fun summer activity you can do with your furry friend. You’ll both enjoy the opportunity to get outdoors, get moving and explore the beautiful scenery in Ontario. Here is everything you need to know before you pack your tent and bring Fido along.

Park rules

Each park may have slightly different rules and some may not allow dogs to camp. Check park regulations before heading out to ensure everyone has a safe and happy trip. Here are some general guidelines from Ontario Parks:

Always keep dogs on a leash no longer than 2 metres (6 feet) in length, unless in a designated off-leash area or designated roofed accommodation.
Do not allow dogs to damage or disturb park vegetation and wildlife.
Do not leave dogs unattended or allow them to make excessive noise.
Pick up after your dog’s waste (stoop-and-scoop bags are available at most gatehouses).
If bugs are bothering your dog, put bug spray on a bandana, not on the dog’s fur. This will keep them from licking off the bug spray which could make them sick. Always speak to your veterinarian before using any product to ensure it’s safe for your pet.

To learn more about dog friendly areas and pet safety, visit ontarioparks.com/dogsatparks

What to pack

You want the trip to be enjoyable for all involved. Thus, packing a few extra things can make the camping trip easier for you and your companion animal.  Find our basic packing list below.

Pet food and lots of water
Dog bowls
A blanket or towel for them to lay on
Extra leash to use as a tie-out
A camp tent with extra space
Dog-safe bug spray (check with your veterinarian)
A favourite toy
ID tag for their collar
Dog waste bags
Pet first aid kit

Like us, our pets can get injured or sick. Consider pet insurance to help protect your pets. In the event of an emergency, it will give you peace of mind knowing pet insurance will cover those unforeseen veterinary bills and help your furry friends stay healthy.

Camping is a great way to get outdoors with your furry friend. Enjoy a safe and fun-filled camping season!

Ever wonder why your dog does what they do? While they can’t speak our language, dogs communicate clearly through body language if you know what to look for. Every behaviour offers a glimpse into your dog’s thoughts and emotions. Understanding these cues can help strengthen your bond, reduce stress, and even prevent unwanted behaviour. In this blog, we’re decoding some of your dog’s behaviours with our friends at Royal Canin Canada!

Your dog turns in circles before laying down

This behaviour is a throwback from when dogs lived in the wild. It used to help them trample down tall grass to make their beds more comfortable and chase away any small animals (like snakes) and insects.

Your dog sniffs other dogs’ bottoms

Dogs use their strong sense of smell to get to know other animals. It’s their way to learn about each other.

You dog licks your hand

It may mean your dog wants to appease you, wants to reinforce his friendly intentions, or maybe it means you have something yummy on your hands!

Your dog lays on his back and shows you his belly

He is likely showing appeasement behaviour, possibly because he feels unsure or afraid. And it could also mean that he wants a belly rub, as he has learned that this behaviour gets him that. Always check with the dog owner if you can stroke his dog.

Understanding Your Dog

Teaching your dog what “watch me” means is a great way to get their attention. This trick is helpful when you want your dog to focus on you instead of getting distracted. Here are six easy steps on how to teach this to your dog!

What you’ll need:

Treats and toys your dog likes
A collar and a leash
Remember to make sure to time your “click” or “yes” the instant the dog makes eye contact. This is the best way to teach your dog that they are doing it right!

Step 1:

Start in a low distraction environment, such as a quiet room in your house.
Sit in front of your dog while they are on a leash and see if they will offer eye contact naturally. If they do, mark (say) “yes” and reward.

Step 2:

If they are distracted, show them a treat or toy to gain their attention. Then, slowly bring the object up to your face to encourage eye contact.
Once they look at you, mark “yes” and reward.

Step 3:

Once your dog is offering eye contact consistently, you can say “watch me” while you bring the treat/toy to your face. Then mark “yes” and reward.

Step 4:

Practice adding distractions by showing your dog a treat or toy and then holding it out to the side.
Use the “watch me” cue. Once your dog looks back at you, mark “yes” and reward.

Step 5:

Continue to practice in your home. If your dog is responding to the “watch me” cue majority of the time, then you can slowly move to distracting environments like your backyard.

Step 6:

If you are finding it hard to get your dog’s attention, move away from the stimulating object until you regain their attention.
If they remain focused on you, then try again. Move slowly and stop before your dog loses focus. We want to end on a positive note!

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SUDBURY, ON (July 31, 2025)— The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, in partnership with Collège Boréal, is pleased to announce the opening of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury Regional Veterinary Clinic.

Located at 21 Lasalle Blvd. on the Collège Boréal campus, the new clinic offers spay/neuter and basic veterinary services for publicly owned dogs and cats, local rescue organizations, and animals in the care of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre.

This initiative is a direct result of the Ontario SPCA’s strategic commitment to increasing access to veterinary services across the province and supporting animal welfare in the North.

In addition to providing essential care, the clinic also supports the training of future veterinary professionals. It serves as a hands-on learning facility for students enrolled in Collège Boréal’s Veterinary Care Technician program, preparing graduates to meet the rising demand for veterinary services in their communities.

“This partnership not only helps us provide access to veterinary services in the community, but it also helps us train more veterinary professionals,” says Sonya Reichel, Vice President of Operations, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “With veterinary shortages reaching crisis levels, particularly in Northern Ontario, this clinic is one step toward addressing the growing needs of the community.”

“Collège Boréal is proud to join this meaningful partnership that helps the Ontario SPCA Sudbury Regional Veterinary Clinic to offer accessible preventative care to animals in Northern communities,” says Paulette Bonin, Vice-President, Academic at Collège Boréal. “By working together, our students will also gain valuable experiential learning opportunities, enhancing skills in communication, teamwork, and professionalism. This collaboration enriches our curriculum, supports community health, and prepares future Registered Veterinary Technicians for success in today’s evolving veterinary care industry.”

Registration for a spay or neuter procedure at the new clinic will be available once a month on the Ontario SPCA’s website at ontariospca.ca/spayneuter, with the next registration taking place on Aug. 5, 2025.

Media Contact:

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

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is a registered charity that has been changing the lives of animals for over 150 years. The Society provides care, comfort and compassion to animals in need in communities across Ontario. It values all animals and advocates to treat them with respect and kindness. The Society strives to keep pets and families together and does so through a variety of community support services, such as sheltering and adoptions, including emergency sheltering, feral cat management programs, animal transfers, food distribution, humane education, animal advocacy, and spay/neuter services.

The Ontario SPCA does not receive annual government funding and relies on donations to provide programs and services to help animals in need. To learn more, or to donate, visit ontariospca.ca. Charitable Business # 88969-1044-RR0002.

The Ontario SPCA Sudbury Regional Veterinary Clinic is located on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek. The Greater City of Sudbury also includes the traditional lands of the Wahnapitae First Nation.

About Collège Boréal

Founded in Sudbury in 1995, Collège Boréal is a French-language postsecondary institution committed to the development and growth of the various Ontario communities it serves. With 34 sites including eight campuses in 27 communities, Boréal offers high-level expertise in postsecondary education with the highest graduate and employer satisfaction rates among Ontario’s 24 community colleges.

Its services also include basic training, apprenticeship, immigration and integration services, employment services, continuing education, customized training and applied research.

Collège Boréal’s Veterinary Care Technician program is proudly accredited by the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT) and the College of Veterinarians of Ontario. This program also has a Certificate of Good Animal Practice (GAP) issued by the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) and is certified under the Animals for Research Act issued by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. For more details: visit collegeboreal.ca/en/programme/veterinary-care-technician.