Page 22 – Ontario SPCA

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (May 29, 2025) – Ontario SPCA and Humane Society President & CEO Doug Brooks has announced his official retirement. Having served as President & CEO for four years, Brooks has led the organization through the amalgamation with the Humane Society of Durham Region, the announcement of the merger with the Thunder Bay & District Humane Society, partnered with a number of colleges and universities and launched the community focused strategic plan, aimed at supporting communities, increasing awareness of animal welfare challenges and keeping pets and people together.

“Doug Brooks has led with a steady hand and a kind heart, always guided by the Ontario SPCA’s core values of compassion, collaboration, accountability, transparency and excellence,” says Renata D’Innocenzo, Chair of the Board. “We are incredibly grateful for all he has done for our organization and the communities we serve.”

Doug Brooks’ last day will be July 11, 2025. The Ontario SPCA has appointed Donna Healey, current Society CFO, to be Interim CEO until the new CEO starts in September.

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society welcomes Charmaine Brett as new CEO & President

Respected global animal welfare and humanitarian leader to lead the organization into its next chapter

After a search that spanned North America, Charmaine Brett has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer and President of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, starting September 8, 2025.

“Charmaine is joining us at a crucial moment for the Ontario SPCA as we deepen our impact across the province, continue to champion animal well-being through community-based care and deal with the impact of a shortage of veterinarian services,” said Renata D’Innocenzo, Chair of the Board of Directors.

Charmaine brings more than 20 years of global non-profit leadership, spanning animal welfare, humanitarian response and community-led development. Prior to her role at Veterinarians Without Borders, she held senior leadership positions with organizations including Doctors Without Borders, Action Against Hunger, Habitat for Humanity and the Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies—one of the largest private foundations in the United States. Her work has consistently focused on improving lives through locally driven, sustainable solutions across health, housing, and humanitarian sectors.

Most recently, Charmaine served as Executive Director of Veterinarians Without Borders North America, a registered charity in both Canada and the United States. Under her leadership, the organization significantly expanded its reach across more than 13 countries and continues to be an active member of VSF International, a global network working in 55 countries to improve the health of animals, people and the environment.

Charmaine is widely recognized for her leadership in emergency response, having directed complex operations in Ukraine, Turkey and wildfire-affected regions of British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Northern Ontario. Her ability to respond with clarity, compassion, and coordination during times of crisis has earned her strong respect across the animal welfare and humanitarian sectors.

In Canada, she has led efforts to increase access to veterinary care in remote and underserved communities, particularly through her work with Indigenous partners in Nunavut and the Northwest Territories. Through mobile clinics, education initiatives and the introduction of innovative models such as tele-triage, she has helped build more sustainable systems of care for animals in hard-to-reach regions.

“I am honoured to join the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society at such a pivotal time for animal welfare,” said Charmaine Brett. “Across Ontario, there is an incredible opportunity to strengthen local partnerships, support underserved communities, and build a future where every animal receives the care they deserve. I’m excited to work alongside this dedicated team and all those who make this mission possible.”

Based in Ontario, Charmaine shares her home with her two children and a lively crew of rescue pets. Her leadership is rooted in collaboration, equity, and a belief in the power of community to drive meaningful change.

MEDIA CONTACT

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society
Media relations
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 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.

As the seasons change, some animals start to experience the not-so-pleasant effects of seasonal allergies. Just like humans, our furry companions can react to environmental triggers like pollen, mold spores, and dust mites, which can lead to itchy skin, runny eyes, or frequent licking and scratching. In some cases, animals can even lose their fur in the areas most affected.

Common signs of allergies

Detecting the signs of seasonal allergies in the early stages can make a difference. These can show up as:

Persistent itching or chewing (especially on paws and ears)
Red or irritated skin
Watery eyes or sneezing
Chronic ear infections or head shaking

If your companion animal shows these symptoms, they may be reacting to something in their environment.

Outdoor and indoor triggers

While most of us think of common allergens such as pollen or grass, many common household items can also cause allergic reactions in animals. Some often-overlooked indoor triggers include:

Dust mites in carpets, bedding, and upholstery
Mold in damp areas like basements or bathrooms
Cleaning products and air fresheners with strong scents
Pet beds and toys that collect dust or mold over time

Ways to help

If you suspect your dog has allergies, a visit to the vet is the best first step. Depending on the severity, your vet might recommend:

Over-the-counter antihistamines or prescription treatments for secondary bacterial or fungal infections
Medicated or hypoallergenic shampoos to relieve skin irritation
Allergy testing and even immunotherapy to treat root causes

At home, you can help manage allergies by:

Vacuuming and dusting regularly (especially in areas your furry friends spend the most time)
Washing their bedding and toys weekly with scent free, hypoallergenic detergent
Using a HEPA filter and dehumidifier to improve indoor air quality
Wiping your dog’s paws, armpits and groin after outdoor walks to avoid tracking in pollen

Comfort all year long

While allergies can’t always be cured, they can be managed with the right care and attention. A few simple adjustments can go a long way in helping your furry friend stay comfortable and healthy, no matter the season.

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.

For over 150 years, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has provided care, comfort, and compassion to animals in need in communities across Ontario.Today, we want to share with you our mission, and who to call when you see an animal in distress.

Reporting animal cruelty

The Ontario SPCA does not enforce the province’s animal welfare legislation. If you see an animal in distress, please contact the Government of Ontario’s Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) team at 1-833-9ANIMAL (1-833-926-4625) or your local police services. If an animal’s life is in immediate danger, call 911.

Reporting concerns about animals in transport

For concerns regarding an animal who is loose or not properly sheltered in the back of a pickup truck, you can call PAWS or local police services.

If your concern relates to the transportation of livestock, call the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). They are responsible for the humane transport of livestock. They can be reached at 1-800-442-2342.

Dogs in hot cars

Parked cars can quickly reach deadly temperatures, even on relatively mild days with the car parked in the shade and the windows open.

If you see an animal in distress in a hot car, call 911 immediately. While you are waiting for help to arrive, ask nearby businesses to put out a page on their PA system asking the person to return to their vehicle.

What is the Ontario SPCA’s purpose?

The Ontario SPCA and Humane 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, including sheltering and adoptions, emergency sheltering, feral cat management programs, animal transfers, food distribution, humane education, animal advocacy, and spay/neuter services.

Visit our website to learn more about who we are.

Learn more about our Community Outreach Services.

The Ontario SPCA is a registered charity and does not receive annual government funding. We rely on the generosity of donors to help animals in need. Please consider donating today to help us create a brighter future for animals.

It may feel like a kind gesture to offer food to wildlife. Leaving out a few peanuts for the squirrels, bread for ducks, or even raw veggies for the rabbits might seem innocent, but feeding wild animals can lead to serious consequences for both the animals and our communities.

Unnatural diets, unnatural problems

Wild animals have evolved to survive on specific foods found in their natural environments. When we offer human food — especially processed items like bread, crackers, or pet kibble — it lacks the correct balance of nutrients wildlife need and can make them sick. For example, feeding bread to waterfowl like ducks and geese can cause a condition called “angel wing,” a deformity that prevents them from flying.

Spreading illness

Feeding stations or handouts often attract multiple animals to the same location, which increases the risk of disease transmission. Conditions such as avian influenza, salmonella, distemper, and mange can spread rapidly when animals are brought into unnaturally close contact with one another, and in some cases, to pets or even people.

Desensitizing wildlife to humans

When wild animals become accustomed to being fed, they can lose their natural fear of humans. This can lead to potentially dangerous encounters. Animals become bolder when approaching people, expecting food. This can lead them to get too close to roads or homes, and in some cases, act aggressively when food is withheld. Sadly, animals deemed a nuisance or danger are often euthanized as a result.

Laws against feeding wildlife

Many municipalities in Ontario have bylaws that prohibit feeding wildlife, with hefty fines for those who don’t comply. These laws are in place to protect animals and maintain safe, healthy communities.

What you can do instead:

Support natural habitats by planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers that provide food and shelter.
Keep garbage and compost bins secure to avoid attracting curious wildlife.
Enjoy wildlife from a distance — watch, photograph, and appreciate, but don’t feed.
Educate others about the dangers of feeding wild animals.

As tempting as it may be to feed a passing animal, the best way to care for wildlife is by letting them stay wild. Our actions, however well-meaning, can disrupt natural behaviours, endanger animal health, and create unsafe situations for our communities. Every action we take to protect wild animals in their natural habitat helps preserve the delicate balance of our ecosystems. Together, we can ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the beauty, diversity, and wonder of Ontario’s wildlife — from a respectful and safe distance.

For more tips on coexisting with wild animals responsibly, visit ontariospca.ca.

Bringing home a new puppy or dog is an exciting time for everyone! Whether you’ve had a dog before or are new to the experience, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the new arrival well in advance. Starting this new adventure may require having a little extra patience, but it will help you build a lifelong bond with your new friend. It can take a few days to several weeks for you and your dog to get to know each other, learn new routines, and settle in.

The following information will help both you and your new buddy get off to a good start!

Getting ready!

You should have all your pet supplies before your new dog comes home. Although most pet supply stores allow pets inside, going shopping on your way home with your dog may be too overwhelming for the first day. Save this type of outing for when you know each other better.

Supply list:

Collar
Leash
Food and water bowls
Bedding
A crate
Toys – try to get a variety of shapes, textures, and sizes
Treats and chew bones
Don’t forget your poop bags!

Plan ahead: Pick up and arrival

Plan for arrival, including accommodations and sleeping arrangements that you and your family can practice BEFORE your dog comes home.

Ask yourself:

Where will your dog sleep at night?
Where in the house will you place a crate, if needed?
What boundaries will you set? (such as “no feeding the dog at the table”)
Who is responsible for feeding, exercising, grooming, playing?
What will the daily routine look like?

Try to bring your new furry friend home on a day that can be devoted solely to them. You want them to feel comfortable around you and your home before introducing them to other new people.

The pick up!

Many dogs can be afraid of going in the car, while others have lots of energy and may treat it as a jungle gym! Arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you when you go to pick up your dog (and bring your crate if you can). That way, one person can focus on driving, while the other takes care of your furry friend. If your dog resists going in the car, try luring with treats and gentle encouragement.

Make sure to bring with you:

Leash and collar
Treats
Poop bags

Finally home!

When you arrive home, start the outdoor tour first. Keeping your dog on leash, let them take the lead investigating the yard. This may require some patience as some dogs may want to sniff every blade of grass!

Once indoors, keep your dog on leash and follow them as they snoop through each room, avoiding rooms that will be off limits. Show them their bed, and where the water bowl is (or they might find their own)!

Training and play time will go a long way in building your new relationship.

Here are some great resources to check out:

“Watch Me.”
“Sit.”
“Loose Leash Walking.”
A toy box is great addition to your living room at home! Check out “The Toy Box” enrichment ideas.
Playing Fetch can be a great game to help your dog learn control, reduce hard mouthing, and just have fun! All you need is a couple of toys and a space to play!

Introductions to current pet residents:

Bringing home a new furry friend can be a big adjustment for your current pets. Try to share the love equally. For tips on how to make those introductions go smoothly, check out our blogs on dog-to-dog introductions and dog-to-cat introductions! Before you know it, you’ll have a friend for life!

Interested in adopting? Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to see animals available for adoptions. Animals adopted from the Ontario SPCA are spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and they go home with food from Royal Canin to help ensure a smooth transition into their new home.

Wink arrived at the Ontario SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre underweight, in need of a bath, and with one eye almost completely closed. Through it all, her sweet nature captured the hearts of the animal care team and helped her find a forever home.

Wink and her five siblings needed some TLC when they arrived at the Muskoka Animal Centre in January. They were skinny and dirty, but the four-month-old pups were so sweet!

Lindsey Bunn, Muskoka Animal Centre Manager, says she was part of the team caring for the puppies when they first arrived. After Wink had a bath, Lindsey dried her off and could tell right away that this little pup had a gentle disposition.

“She just snuggled right in and fell asleep on my shoulder,” says Lindsey. “So, I had a hard time not taking her home myself.”

They were, however, concerned about Wink’s eye. They contacted their local veterinarian with pictures of Wink and came up with a treatment plan.

Lindsey says after an examination, the veterinarian confirmed Wink had no eye on that side; it had never developed. This meant they could close up the eye socket to prevent future issues.

“It ended up being a really simple, quick procedure,” says Lindsey.

Once she recovered from her surgery, the staff posted a photo of Wink on social media. Lindsey says it didn’t take long to get a call from a family eager to adopt her.

The couple who came to adopt Wink had just recently lost their dog, who also had only one eye. When they saw Wink’s photo, they called right away and jumped in the car to drive 3.5 hours from Walford Station, just west of Sudbury.

“Right away from just seeing the photo, they fell in love with her, and then when they met her, she was all cuddly and snuggly and she sealed the deal,” says Lindsey.

Interested in adopting? Visit our website to find adoptable animals near you.

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 animals like Wink get the second chance they deserve.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (May 20, 2025) – Meet your new best friend and give an animal the second chance they deserve during the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s spring iAdopt event, taking place May 23-25 at its 12 animal centres across the province.

If you’ve been thinking about adopting a furry family member, now is the perfect time to open your heart and home to an animal in need. Adoption fees will be reduced by 20% for long-term residents, which are animals who have been waiting more than three times longer than the average wait time to find a loving home.

Kane, one of the Ontario SPCA’s long-term residents, has been waiting for a loving home for nearly 100 days. The 2.5-year-old mixed-breed dog is as sporty as he is handsome. He’s still working on building his confidence, but his goofy and affectionate nature is starting to shine through. With time, consistency, and love, he’ll become a loyal and confident companion for that special person.

“Springtime brings a wave of new animals into our centres,” says Sonya Reichel, Vice President of Operations, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “By opening your heart and home this weekend, you’re giving a homeless animal a fresh start and helping us make room for the next ones who urgently need care.”

There are so many great reasons to consider adoption! Not only are you giving an animal a second chance, but animals adopted from the Ontario SPCA are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and go home with food from Royal Canin to help ensure a smooth transition into their new home.

To meet your new best friend, visit ontariospca.ca/adopt

Can’t adopt? Please consider donating to help provide care and shelter to animals in need. Visit ontariospca.ca/donate

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 do 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.

Though some cats are more vocal than others, most cat parents will have experience conversing with their feline friends. But why do they do it? The ASPCA has a very helpful tip sheet that covers some of the common reasons cats meow or yowl.

Read the full post for information on how to teach your cats to be less vocal, and what not to do in the training process.

Common reasons why cats meow

To greet people. Your cat may greet you when you come home, when you speak to them, or when they meet you somewhere in the house.
To solicit attention. The ASPCA says cats enjoy social contact with people, and some will be quite vocal in their requests for attention. This may mean your cat wants to be petted, played with, or just talked to. If your cat is left alone for long periods of time during the day, they may be more in need of attention.
To ask for food. Cats like their food and can get demanding around mealtimes. The ASPCA says some cats learn to meow whenever anyone enters the kitchen, just in case food is a possibility. Others will meow to wake their caregivers up for breakfast. The ASPCA says cats also learn to beg for human food by meowing.
To ask to be let in or out. Meowing is the cat’s primary way to let you know what they want, according to the ASPCA. This means they may meow to ask if they can go outside. For the safety of your cats, outdoor time should be supervised, or in an enclosure such as a “catio.”
Elderly cats suffering from mental confusion, or cognitive dysfunction, may meow if they become disoriented—a frequent symptom of this feline version of Alzheimer’s Disease, according to the ASPCA. For more information, please read the ASPCA’s article on Behaviour Problems in Older Cats.
To find a mate. Reproductively intact cats are more likely to yowl. Females yowl to advertise their receptivity to males, and males yowl to gain access to females. For information on spaying/neutering your furry friend, read more on our blog.

We hope you found this information helpful!

Sue Wosik’s love for animals and her passion for their welfare resonates through her generous legacy gift to the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. As a legacy donor, Sue has bequeathed two of her life insurance policies to the Ontario SPCA, a testament to her commitment to animal welfare.

After retiring from a fulfilling career with the Department of National Defense, Sue took time to reflect on the kind of legacy she wanted to leave behind.

“My financial advisor suggested considering a legacy and a few organizations,” Sue says. “Once I heard about the Ontario SPCA, I knew that’s exactly what I wanted—to support the care of animals.”

Sue hopes her legacy will contribute to educating the public about treating animals better and ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

“I’ve had cats all my life, and they have this special connection with me. I feel like a cat whisperer,” Sue says with fondness. “They’re kind and loving, and I truly cherish every single one of them.”

As a loving mom to her furry companions — Tarzan, Jane, Spunky, Odie, and many others — Sue views her legacy gift as a heartfelt way to give back to the animals who have filled her life with joy. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that you’ll be remembered as the person you were in life.”

Just like Sue, you can make a difference for animals beyond your own lifetime. By including the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society in your will, you can continue your advocacy for animals, providing them with care and shelter.

Your generous gift will ensure that animals continue to find loving homes. You’ll be there to rescue them in times of need, and your legacy will serve as a life-changing gift.

The bond between animals and humans brings us joy unlike anything else, and you have the opportunity to reciprocate the unconditional love that they give.

To learn more about how you can leave a lasting impact on the lives of animals, visit ontariospca.ca/legacy. Your support ensures that the compassion you share can continue well into the future.

For any questions, please contact Sarah Zachariah, Director of Legacy Giving, at [email protected] or 905-285-6873

Dogs, like humans, can experience varying degrees of disabilities, and while some are quite noticeable, hearing loss often goes undetected at the onset.

Generally, hearing loss is a gradual process brought on by aging, chronic ear infections or trauma. However, in some cases, dogs can be born with congenital deafness, a genetic issue.

Read more about ear infections in dogs on our blog.

How do I know if my dog is experiencing hearing loss?

Determining whether your furry companion is experiencing hearing loss or is simply a stubborn listener is the first step. Puppies who are born deaf tend to appear to be slow learners and not respond to their names or other verbal cues.

For aging pups, you might notice changes in their behaviour. For example, if your companion is typically waiting anxiously for you at the door = and they start missing your arrival, chances are they aren’t hearing you arrive and are sleeping through the commotion.

If you think your dog is experiencing hearing loss, try a few simple tests at home like rattling your keys or picking up a squeaky toy to gauge a reaction. It’s important that your furry companion cannot see the source of the noise as they can react to the visual cue and provide a false test result. If they fail to respond to the noise source, book an appointment with your veterinarian for a full examination.

Can a deaf dog be trained?

Dogs affected by hearing loss or born deaf make great companions with proper training. Typically, deaf dogs are attuned to their surroundings and have sharp instincts. Since dogs tend to look at their humans for guidance, the main difference is that you’ll need to use hand gestures rather than using verbal cues. It doesn’t matter which gestures you decide to use for different cues, the important thing is to remain consistent and teach them to associate specific hand signals and body language with the desired behaviour.

How to keep your deaf dog safe

There are many things to consider when caring for a deaf dog and keeping them safe should be top of mind. Always keep your dog on a leash near busy streets as they can’t hear traffic approaching or the honking of horns.

It’s also important to keep them leashed if you are not in a contained area, like a fenced backyard, since they can’t hear when you call them to come. Getting their attention can be tricky during the day, but at night, you might want to try flashing the porch light or using a flashlight.

Waking your deaf dog also needs some consideration. It’s important not to sneak up on your dog and startle them as they could bite by sheer impulse. If you are approaching them, try adding a little stomp to your walk so they can feel the vibration on the floor as you approach them.

Is adopting a deaf dog right for you?

Whether a dog is affected by hearing loss or not, the bottom line is whether you have the time to commit to training and caring for your new companion. Deaf dogs are just like hearing dogs and with dedication and consistency, live full and rewarding lives. If you are considering adopting a dog experiencing hearing loss, talk to an animal care expert or veterinarian to discuss the dog’s needs and seek out the guidance of a positive reinforcement dog trainer with experience working with dogs with hearing loss.

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 depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Merger strengthens animal welfare services in Northern Ontario

Thunder Bay, ON (May 15, 2025) – The Thunder Bay & District Humane Society (TBDHS) and the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society are pleased to announce a new chapter in their longstanding partnership. TBDHS will be joining forces with the Ontario SPCA to enhance support for animals and the people who care for them across the Thunder Bay District and Northern Ontario.

This merger builds on decades of collaboration between the two organizations, both dedicated to improving animal welfare. The merged organization will operate with the same dedicated staff and volunteers and gain access to expanded provincial resources and administrative support through the Ontario SPCA. This integration will increase capacity to care for animals in need and expand local programming.

Recognizing the unique animal welfare needs in Northern Ontario, the Ontario SPCA has long worked in partnership with TBDHS, First Nations communities, and local rescues to deliver vital services. These joint efforts have included providing food supplies, offering mobile spay/neuter and wellness clinics, relocating animals to other regions of Ontario for adoption, and supporting the development of local community animal management strategies. Together, these initiatives have strengthened communities and advanced animal welfare in meaningful ways.

“The Thunder Bay & District Humane Society’s Board of Directors believes in the mission of the organization and is excited that we can lead our Society to this new level of support for the district. I am pleased that two of the TBDHS Board Directors will now sit on the Ontario SPCA Board of Directors to provide a voice for the North and communities across Ontario,” says Chris Bliznikas, President & Chair of the TBDHS Board of Directors.

To ensure that Northern voices continue to shape the direction of the organization, TBDHS Board Directors Ryan Venn and Derek Noyes will now serve on the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Board of Directors. The Ontario SPCA Board will govern both organizations until the merger is finalized in January 2026.

“This is a significant and meaningful milestone for the Thunder Bay & District Humane Society. It’s a step forward for animals and the people who care for them in the Northern community. Our team is excited for the future and to have access to these great resources,” says Shawna Beaulieu, Executive Director of TBDHS.

“The Thunder Bay & District Humane Society staff and volunteers are doing a wonderful job providing care and resources to the animals of the Thunder Bay District. The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is pleased to work together to offer support to leverage and continue expanding their programs and community support services,” says Renata D’Innocenzo, Chair, Board of Directors, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society.

Media Contacts

For more information or media inquiries, please contact:

Thunder Bay & District Humane Society
[email protected]

Ontario SPCA Media Relations
[email protected]

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

The Thunder Bay & District Humane Society

The Thunder Bay & District Humane Society (TBDHS) is a 100% not-for-profit established as a corporation in 1994; TBDHS does not receive any government funding and relies solely on donations, fundraising, and adoption income. They are dedicated to providing care and shelter to animals in need.

Moving homes can be a very exciting and stressful experience for you and your furry family members! Here are some great tips from the ASPCA to help make your transition as stress-free as possible for you and your pet.

Moving with your pet

Choosing a new neighbourhood, house or apartment

The ASPCA advises you check out the neighbourhood before picking out your home to determine if it seems safe for your pets. Here they say you can also be on the lookout for neighborhood dogs that seem aggressive or are left unattended.

Looking at the square footage of your home – cats and dogs need different things:

For cats – the ASPCA advises you have space to build vertically to create shelving for them to explore.
Dog needs are more case-by-case, the ASPCA says: “Older dogs, puppies and dogs with house training issues will need to go outside often, which might be difficult in an apartment building with lots of stairs or a house without a yard.”

Packing up your home

ASPCA tips for packing your home include bringing in moving boxes early and keeping your furry family members in a familiar room that you plan to pack last.

When the moving day arrives, keep pets in a quiet room with the door shut, or at a friend’s house. The last thing you want is for your pet to get scared and get out of the house while you or your movers are loading the truck.

Planning your road trip

You can prepare your pets for a road trip by gradually acclimating them to their crates.

Check out our blog for more tips for a paws-itive car travel experience with your furry friend.

Pet-proofing your new home

Once you’ve moved, the ASPCA says to look around your home and pet-proof it.

“Tuck away electrical cords, plug up nooks where your pet could get stuck, make sure that all windows have secure screens, remove any poisonous houseplants and confirm that no pest-control poison traps have been left anywhere in the house.”

Check out our blog for a list of poisonous plants and flowers to look out for.

Settling in

A new space can be overwhelming for your furry friends to experience all at once. Here are some tips from the ASPCA for settling into your new home.

Start by allowing them to adjust to one room—their “home base”—which should include their favourite toys, treats, water and food bowls and litter box for cats.
When they seem comfortable, gradually introduce them to other rooms in the house, while keeping some doors shut.
You can relocate your cat’s litter box from the “home base” room to a more permanent location by moving it slowly over time. Try moving the litter box one foot forward each day.

For more helpful tips for your animals, visit ontariospca.ca/blog