Page 22 – Ontario SPCA

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bracebridge, ON (July 14, 2025) – Get ready for a tail-wagging good time at the Ontario SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre’s open house on Sunday, July 20. Come out for an afternoon of fun, meet some furry friends, and discover how the Muskoka Animal Centre is making a pawsitive impact in the community.

Visit the animal centre, located at 1234 Muskoka Rd., 118 West in Bracebridge, between 12 noon and 4 p.m. to meet adorable adoptable animals and enjoy an afternoon packed with fun. There will be delicious barbecue food provided by Turtle Jack’s in Port Carling, vendors, kids’ activities, and artwork on display by local artists, with a portion of proceeds from art sales donated back to the animal centre.

“We’re so excited to open our doors to the community for a day of fun and connection,” says Lindsey Bunn, Manager of the Ontario SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre. “Whether you’re hoping to meet some adorable animals, curious about the work we do, or just looking for a great family outing, there’s something for everyone. It’s a wonderful chance to step inside, ask questions, and see first-hand how we’re making a difference for animals and the people who love them.”

To learn more about the Muskoka Animal Centre, visit ontariospca.ca/muskoka

Media Contact

Leslie Barrie
Community Outreach Coordinator
Ontario SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre
1-888-668-7722 ext. 442
[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 Muskoka Animal Centre serves communities situated on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, which includes the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations, collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy. The Huron-Wendat and the Haudenosaunee Nations have also walked on this territory over time. Today Muskoka is home to three sovereign nations: Wahta Mohawks First Nations, Moose Deer Point First Nation and the Moon River Métis. These lands are covered by the Williams Treaty (of 1923), the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850 and the J. Collins land purchase (of 1785).

‘Tis the season for gardening! But what do you do if you keep finding your lawn or gardens dug up? We’re here to help, with tips for handling the curious or hungry wildlife exploring your garden.

As more and more of their habitat gets destroyed each year, wildlife face enormous hardships. Each year they are forced into closer contact with humans and must compete for resources. With a little understanding, patience, a few precautions and simple steps, we can all enjoy the wonderfully interesting wild animals who share our backyards and cities.

Common questions:

Who is digging up my lawn and what can I do about it?

Both skunks and raccoons dig up lawns in search of grubs. Treating the lawn with an environmentally friendly and non-toxic pesticide will control the grub population. If it is a small area of lawn, you can sprinkle or spray a repellant such as hot sauce diluted with water (one tablespoon in one gallon of water) on the area to deter wild animals.

Community cats may also be digging in your gardens. Alley Cat Allies has a helpful resource that outlines what to do if you suspect cats are the culprits at your home!

Who is eating my garden and how can I prevent this?

Gardens are especially attractive to wildlife because they offer an accessible source of food. Prior to attempting any deterrent or exclusion method, it is important to determine what type of animal is actually damaging the garden. Animals leave behind clues to their identity, and you can use them to figure out who is visiting your garden. For example:

Ragged, torn twigs or leaves, or plants cut down to the base indicate a deer. Deer also have their favourite snacks, including hostas and lilies.
Neatly clipped ends of twigs and vegetation indicate the presence of rabbits and groundhogs.
Small, pea-shaped droppings in the area are also an indication of rabbits.
Missing fruits or veggies can be any number of animals, including chipmunks, birds, racoons, groundhogs and rabbits.

Once you have determined which animals are eating the garden, you can undertake some simple steps to prevent the activity.

Steps to prevent animals eating your garden:

Fences restrict rabbits and deer from access to gardens

Physical barriers may be set up so that certain animals cannot access the garden. You may have to place the fence a few inches into the ground so that animals cannot sneak under the fence. Obviously, the height of the fence would need to be greater to exclude deer than to exclude rabbits.

Fencing material should be stronger than chicken wire because most animals can manipulate it and gain entry to the garden. A lower-gauge, thicker wire mesh works best. Fencing is usually not successful in restricting raccoons from gardens. They are very good climbers and would have no difficulties climbing over the fence.

Covers restrict most animals from vegetables

Plant covers are also successful at keeping most animals from consuming garden plants. Covers can be purchased at garden centres, or you can make your own by cutting the bottom out of a milk or pop jug and placing it over the plant. To protect larger plants, place a net over them. For fruit trees, large nets can be purchased which cover the whole top of the tree to protect the fruit from birds and wild animals. To protect tree trunks from wild animals, plastic or metal screens can be purchased and wrapped around the trunks to a height of about two to three feet.

Deterrent devices work on all animals

Another approach to deter wild animals from your garden is to install deterrent devices. These devices are most useful when dealing with rabbits, groundhogs, skunks, and raccoons.

There are many commercial products you can buy from garden centres, such as motion sensitive lights, sprinklers, and acoustical alarms. There are also many homemade devices that are successful, such as the traditional scarecrow. The key to making this device successful is movement. For example, the scarecrow must move by wind or motorized equipment.

Another device to try is scare tape. Scare tape is reflective and auditory. Simply cut the tape into strips and attach them to posts or wires around the garden. The wind will cause the tape to reflect light and make noise, which will deter wild animals. Aluminum pie plates can also be used.

Note: Any deterrent method you use may need to be changed from time to time as animals adapt and become accustomed to noises and motion. Deterrent devices must remain novel and strange to be effective.

Taste repellents

You can also try a taste repellant applied to the plants that the wild animals are eating. A diluted mixture of hot sauce and water (one tablespoon of hot sauce in one gallon of water) can be sprayed directly on the fruits/vegetables or around the perimeter of the garden. Remember to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.

For more tips on co-existing with wildlife, check out our Wildlife Fact Sheets.

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.

Whether you’ve had a pet rat before, or you’re a first-time parent, here are some tips you need to know about food, enclosure size, exercise and more.

Food

In every pet supply store and feed store you should be able to find high-quality pelleted rat food. These are nutritionally balanced and should always be available to your rat.

Your rat should have access to water 24/7. The best way to do this is with a water-bottle drinking tube attached to the side of their enclosure.

You can also offer bite-sized bits of fresh fruit and vegetables daily, such as peas, broccoli, carrots, apples, and bananas.

Remember the movie Ratatouille? Well, it’s true that rats love human food. You can give occasional bits of table food like cooked pasta or pizza crust. Make sure to limit these treats so you don’t have an overweight rat! Avoid snacks like chocolate, corn, candy, caffeinated beverages, cheese and sticky foods such as peanut butter.

Creating a healthy environment

Rats are very sociable and should be kept in same-sex pairs at a minimum.

Provide a solid-bottom, powder-coated wire enclosure for your rat. The absolute minimum size for a single rat is a 2’ X 2’ X 2’ enclosure. Pairs require more space to remain as comfortable and healthy as possible. The best location for the enclosure is inside, away from drafts, direct sunlight, and extreme temperatures.

The enclosure should be lined with bedding, but do not use cedar or pine chips as they contain oils that are dangerous to rats. Many rats like to make nests, so provide them with shredded paper towels or napkins to do this. Your rats will also appreciate a cave for sleeping and resting, which could be a small flowerpot or box.

Behaviour and handling

Rats are friendly animals, but they still need time to get used to you and being handled. You may start this process by feeding small treats by hand. Once they’re comfortable with that, you can pick them up with one hand supporting them from underneath, and the other on their back.

Once your rat is socialized you can start giving them time outside the enclosure to play. Playtime is essential and will keep your smart, active friends mentally stimulated and physically fit. They do need to be continually supervised, however, because rats like to chew.

Exercise & toys

Rats are very active animals! To keep your rat happy and healthy, try providing PVC tubes, ladders or tree branches to climb, as well as swings and ropes. If you get an exercise wheel for your rat, make sure they have a solid surface without rungs, so their tail won’t get caught when running.

Rats’ teeth grow continuously, so you will need to provide appropriate chew toys to help wear down their teeth.

Daily care

To clean your rat’s enclosure, remove the soiled bedding, droppings and stale/uneaten food daily. Your rat’s water bottle should also be cleaned and refilled every day. Once a week, replace dirty bedding and scrub down the rest of the cage with warm, soapy water.

Signs of illness

Some common signs of illness to watch for include sneezing, lethargy, weight loss, dull eyes, open wounds, diarrhea and difficulty breathing. Contact a veterinarian if you have any concerns for the health of your rat.

Why rats make great companions

Rats can be great friends because they are loyal and affectionate. They are highly intelligent animals and very playful. They can also be taught to follow cues such as responding to their name, or even learn fun tricks!

If you’re interested in adopting, visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to see our animals available for adoption.

For more animal care tips, visit our blog.

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

Summer is a great time to spend quality time outdoors with your furry friend, but beware of bugs! There are several bugs that can be irritating and harmful for our furry friends. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can be annoying for our animals, and cause local irritation, but the major concern is that they can transmit heartworm.

Learn more

Speak to your veterinarian about preventative heartworm medication for your dog during mosquito season. If the animal contracts the disease, treatment is costly, lengthy, and has health risks involved.

2. Fleas

Adult fleas spend only around five percent of their life on an animal; the other 95 percent spent is spent elsewhere, digesting food and laying eggs. Fleas jump on an animal to consume blood, which they need to reproduce.

Because flea bites are irritating, the animal will bite and scratch to relieve the itching, which can cause secondary skin trauma and lead to a skin infection. Young or compromised animals with a heavy flea burden can actually suffer from anemia.

In addition to the yuck factor of having fleas in your home, and the toll it takes on your animal, a big concern with fleas is that they can transfer tapeworm.

Always speak to your veterinarian before attempting to treat a flea infestation to ensure you use products that are safe for your animal and their environment. Read more on how to eliminate fleas.

How to eliminate fleas

3. Ticks

Ticks are attracted to three things: body motion, body heat, and carbon dioxide, making your furry friends the perfect target as they run and sniff around outside.

Ticks are ground-dwellers, so they move from low shrubbery or the ground to latch onto your furry friends. Ticks can be found anywhere on the body, especially parts of your animal that sit closest to the ground: neck, head, around the ears, the front part and underside of their chest, and between paw pads and toes.

Ticks can transmit Lyme disease among other tick-borne illnesses, and they can move between animals, which is why it’s important to check your furry family members when they come inside from playing.

To learn more about what ticks are and where they can be found, check out Tick Prevention for Your Dog.

Tick prevention for your dog

Speak to your veterinarian about tickborne diseases in your area and the safest and most effective tick prevention products for your animal.

4. Flies

Biting flies like black flies, horse flies and deer flies are attracted to our furry friends for their blood. Companion animals who spend a lot of time outdoors and who live near water or farms may be especially susceptible.

Fly bites may be seen most around the ears, nose and on the belly, where hair is sparse. These bites can be painful and may result in an allergic reaction in some furry friends. While fly bites may heal on their own without issue, bites have the potential to become itchy and irritated. This can lead to secondary skin infections where the skin is sore, infected and crusted with blood, in turn attracting more flies. Talk to your vet about pet-friendly fly-repellant available for companion animals.

With these bug precautions in mind, enjoy some quality outdoor time with your furry friend! If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being.

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In January, Tuna arrived at the Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre, and his inspiring story of resilience quickly captivated the staff. This courageous cat had endured the harsh realities of life on the streets, as shown by his many injuries.

Tuna was brought to the centre as a stray by a concerned citizen who had been keeping an eye on him. She noticed that Tuna had acquired some injuries and was limping on one paw. Sensing the urgent need for assistance, she reached out, and our team at the Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre was ready to provide the support he so desperately needed.

A rough start

Upon his arrival, it became evident that Tuna had faced some hardships. He bore multiple wounds, scratches, and scars, each marking a difficult encounter in his life. A prompt health assessment revealed the seriousness of his situation. Tuna tested positive for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) and suffered from a painful bite wound abscess on his paw. He also had some concerning eye issues.

An unyielding spirit

The veterinarians immediately devised a comprehensive treatment plan for Tuna. He received anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, pain relief, and eye drops to alleviate his discomfort. While improvements were seen in his wounds, Tuna’s eye remained a significant concern that required surgical intervention.

The veterinarian treating Tuna recommended an entropion procedure, a type of eye surgery performed to correct entropion, a condition where the eyelid (usually the lower one) turns inward, causing the eyelashes and skin to rub against the surface of the eye. The outcome was a resounding success! Tuna’s recovery was remarkable, showcasing his unyielding spirit and determination to thrive. He healed beautifully, and the love and care he received at the animal centre played a crucial role in his recovery.

Why every act of compassion matters

Tuna has since found his forever home! Officially adopted, he is ready to begin new chapter filled with love and comfort. Everyone’s hearts are full knowing that this resilient cat has a bright future ahead, surrounded by the warmth and care he truly deserves. Stories like Tuna’s remind us of the importance of community and compassion in giving our feline friends a second chance at life.

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 like Tuna. Please consider donating today.

Did you know that cats communicate with their body and facial expressions? Learn what your cat’s body language is telling you with our friend at Royal Canin Canada!

You have a trip coming up, and your beloved furry friend can’t come with you. How do you choose the right boarding kennel for your pet? In today’s blog, we share tips to help you make the right decision.

Initial things to consider

There are pros and cons to using a boarding kennel when you have to be away from your pet.

A facility specializing in care and overnight boarding allows your pet to:

Avoid the stress of a long car or airplane ride to your destination.
Receive more attention and supervision than he would if home alone most of the day.
Be monitored by staff trained to spot health problems.
Be secure in a kennel designed to foil canine and feline escape artists.

Potential drawbacks to using a boarding kennel include the:

Stress related to staying in an unfamiliar environment.
Proximity to other pets, who may expose your pet to health problems.
Difficulty of finding a kennel that accepts pets other than dogs and cats.
Inconvenience of the drive over, which can be especially hard on a pet easily stressed by car travel.

How do I find a good kennel?

Ask a friend, neighbour, veterinarian, or dog trainer for a recommendation. Once you have names – even ones you got from reliable sources – it’s important to do a little background check.

First, find out whether your municipality or province requires boarding kennel inspections. If it does, make sure the kennel you are considering displays a license or certificate showing that the kennel meets mandated standards.

You can also ask whether the prospective kennel belongs to any trade associations founded by kennel operators to promote professional standards of pet care. Besides requiring members to subscribe to a code of ethics, these associations offer voluntary facility accreditation. This would indicate the facility has been inspected and meets their standards of professionalism, safety, and quality of care.

Another avenue is to check with your Better Business Bureau to see whether any complaints have been lodged against a kennel you are considering.

A facility specializing in care and overnight boarding allows your pet to:

Avoid the stress of a long car or airplane ride to your destination.

Receive more attention and supervision than he would if left home alone most of the day.

Be monitored by staff trained to spot health problems.

Be secure in a kennel designed to foil canine and feline escape artists.

How do I find a good kennel?

Ask a friend, neighbour, veterinarian, or dog trainer for a recommendation. Once you have names – even ones you got from reliable sources – it’s important to do a little background check.

Another avenue is to check with your Better Business Bureau to see whether any complaints have been lodged against a kennel you are considering.

After selecting a few kennels, confirm that they can accommodate your pet for specific dates and can address your pet’s special needs (if any). If you’re satisfied, schedule a visit.

What should I look for when I visit?

On your visit, ask to see all the places your pet may be taken. Pay particular attention to the following:

Does the facility look and smell clean?

Is there sufficient ventilation and light?

Is a comfortable temperature maintained?

Does the staff seem knowledgeable and caring?

Are animals required to be current on their vaccinations, including the vaccine for canine kennel cough (Bordetella)? Such a requirement helps protect your animal and others.

Does each dog have his own adequately sized indoor-outdoor run, or an indoor run and a schedule for exercise?

Are outdoor runs and exercise areas protected from wind, rain, and snow?

Are resting boards and bedding provided to allow dogs to rest off the concrete floor?

Are cats housed away from dogs?

Is there enough space for cats to move around comfortably? Is there enough space between the litter box and food bowls?

How often are pets fed?

Can pet parents bring a pet’s special food?

Can pet parents bring a pet’s special bedding?

What veterinary services are available?

Are other services available such as grooming, training, bathing?

How are rates calculated?

What is the animal-to-staff ratio?

What does the facility do in case of an emergency situation?

Do the staff follow a LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) approach when handling animals?

How do I prepare my pet?

Be sure your pet knows basic commands and is well socialized around other people and pets; if your pet has an aggression problem or is otherwise unruly, he may not be a good candidate for boarding. Before taking your animal to the kennel, make sure she is current on vaccinations.

It’s also a good idea to accustom your pet to longer kennel stays by first boarding her during a short trip, such as a weekend excursion. This allows you to work out any problems before boarding your pet for an extended period.

Before you head for the kennel, double check that you have your pet’s medications and any special food (if any), and be sure to give the kennel staff your veterinarian’s phone number, and your contact information, as well as a local backup.

When you arrive with your pet at the boarding facility, remind the staff about any medical or behaviour problems your pet has, such as a history of epilepsy or fear of thunder. After the check-in process, hand your pet to a staff member, say good-bye, and leave. Avoid long, emotional partings, which may upset your pet.

Finally, have a good trip, knowing that your pet is in good hands and will be happy to see you when you return!

As we enter the summer months, it’s important to take extra precautions to keep our furry friends safe. With a few helpful tips, you can keep your pets comfortable and enjoy a fun summer together!

Protecting pads

Avoid going for walks on hot pavement as this can result in burnt pads. Limit your time outside, especially when temperatures are high. If you need to take your furry friend outside, opt for grassy areas instead of concrete or pavement. Signs of burnt pads include limping, licking or chewing feet, refusing to walk, or in extreme cases, blisters, redness or even part of the pad missing. Seek veterinary care if your pet shows any of these signs.

Do not leave your pet in the car

Dogs have a limited ability to sweat, so even a short time in a hot environment can be dangerous. If you are travelling with your pet, plan ahead for pet-friendly rest stops. If you can’t take them inside with you when you leave your car and you have no one travelling with you who can stay with your furry friend, leave them at home where they are safe.

Water and cool shade

Make sure your furry friend has access to fresh water at all times and find a cool place out of the sun while spending time with them outside. This can prevent your pet from getting heatstroke.

Know your dog

Some dogs are more susceptible to heat exposure and the effects of the sun. Certain types of dogs, such as Northern breeds or short-muzzled dogs, may be at greater risk. Dogs that are older, overweight, taking certain medications or with underlying medical conditions are also more susceptible to heat exposure.   

Be aware of bugs

There are a number of bugs that can be harmful and irritating to our furry friends. Mosquitoes cause local irritation and can transmit heartworm. Heartworm medication can be given to your dogs during mosquito season as a preventative measure.

Fleas are also a bug to watch out for and there are many products to prevent them. Talk to your veterinarian about the best option for your dog.

Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and are especially common in grassy and heavily forested areas. There are insect repellants to repel ticks, as well as preventative tick medications your veterinarian can prescribe. Learn more about tick prevention.

Flies, such as horse and deer flies, can cause itching and irritation. To learn more, check out our blog four bugs to be aware of this summer with your pets.

Don’t be afraid to go out and enjoy the weather with your pet! Just keep these handy tips in mind when you do and enjoy the summer weather!

Veterinary care in Ontario is in crisis, even more so in the North. Many communities are left without access to critical animal care, and pet parents are driving hours for basic veterinary services. That’s why the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is proud to support the new building for Lakehead University’s new Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program. This partnership means more trained vets and better care where it’s needed most.

Lakehead University is stepping up for the North and is making real progress in veterinary care. This new initiative will train and graduate 20 students each year from Northern communities, equipping them with the skills and support needed to care for animals across the region.

Last week, Ontario SPCA representatives were invited to attend the Ground Blessing for where the new building will be located. It was an opportunity to share our support for the new facility and meet other supporters of the program.

“The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is proud to support this vital step forward for veterinary medicine in Northern Ontario through this meaningful partnership with Lakehead University and our shared commitment to animal health and well-being,” says Doug Brooks, President and CEO of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “By working together to help train more veterinarians, we’re investing in healthier communities, improved animal welfare, and greater access to care for animals and the people who love them.”

The program’s new animal education facility, Gakina Awesiinyag (Anishinaabemowin for All Animals (Place For)) will be built at Lakehead’s Thunder Bay campus. Equipped with large and small animal housing and specialized clinical spaces, the facility will allow students to learn alongside local veterinarians in the north and complete core courses geared toward northern practice.

At the Ontario SPCA, we believe animal welfare is a community responsibility. No single organization can do it alone. That’s why we’re proud to support this initiative to tackle the root of these issues and bring lasting, meaningful change to veterinary care in Northern Ontario. This partnership is part of our strategic priority to help increase access to veterinary services in underserved areas. We’re not just treating animals in need – we’re building long-term solutions for communities and the people who care for them.

To learn more about how the Ontario SPCA is supporting access to veterinary care across the province, visit our changeforanimals.ca advocacy website and join us as an animal advocate.

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.

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.

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?