Page 22 – Ontario SPCA

When Richard brought an adopted dog home to his horse farm, he couldn’t have expected the beautiful animal friendships that would come from this new addition to his family.

Autumn was brought into the care of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society as a stray. When no one came forward to claim her, she was placed up for adoption at the Ontario SPCA Orangeville & District Animal Centre to find a forever home. At the same time, Richard Moylan was grieving the loss of his dog and considering adopting a new furry friend.

Love at first sight

About a month after arriving in Orangeville, Autumn met Richard, who says it was love at first sight.

“We loved her when we saw her,” says Richard. “She was just so nice and friendly. The kind of dog I like, and I thought she’d be a real house dog.”

Richard lives on a farm with his partner where they breed Thoroughbred horses. Autumn – now named Bailey – very quickly adapted to farm life.

“We got an update from Richard that November, and it was clear it was a perfect match. We’re so happy for her,” says Dawn Lyons, Manager at the Orangeville & District Animal Centre.

Furry friendships

Richard says he soon discovered that Bailey wanted to be involved in the daily activities of the farm. At 4 a.m. every day, Richard says he goes down to check on the horses with Bailey right by his side, ready for her morning ritual.

“She goes up and down to every stall in the barn, stands up on the wall and kisses all the horses. And the horses just love it. I’ve never had a dog do that,” says Richard.

Bailey is also very involved during the foaling season, this year bonding with one foal in particular.

“I just had a baby born three days ago and she won’t leave it alone; she just sits outside the door,” says Richard.

Horses aren’t the only friends Bailey has made at her new home. Richard says he has a 22-year-old barn cat who has also taken a shine to Bailey.

“They love each other,” says Richard. “They talk to each other in the morning when I feed them.”

Richard says he’s so grateful for the amazing work that the Ontario SPCA is doing in his community, and that he encourages everyone to consider adoption.

“We’re so happy to have her. She’s a big part of our family, and she knows it too!” says Richard. “We love her to death.”

Not in a position to adopt? Please consider donating today. 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.

Adopting a blind animal can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with unique responsibilities. Whether you’re considering adopting a blind dog, cat, or another animal, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure their well-being and make the transition smoother for both you and your new furry friend.

Understanding the needs of a blind animal

Blind animals rely heavily on their other senses, particularly their sense of smell and hearing. They navigate the world differently, often using their noses and ears to assess their environment. This means that your home should be adapted to help them feel safe and confident.

Tips for adopting a blind animal

Prepare your home: Before bringing a blind animal home, make sure the environment is safe and obstacle-free. Avoid moving furniture around frequently and keep pathways clear. Consistency is key, so having a predictable layout will help your pet learn and feel secure in their space.
Use scent and sound: Blind animals may rely on specific scents and sounds to help them navigate their surroundings. Consider using scent markers for certain areas, like the food bowl or their bed. You can also use sound cues like bells or voice commands to guide them around the house.
Routine and patience: Routine is key for a blind animal. Consistent feeding times, walks, and playtimes will help your pet feel comfortable and secure. Patience is also important as they adjust to their new environment. With time, most blind animals will adapt and thrive in a predictable, loving home.
Training and socialization: Positive reinforcement techniques, like treats and praise, work wonders with blind animals. While they may not see the world the way sighted animals do, they can still learn cues and engage with you during training sessions. Socialization is also crucial – expose them gradually to new sounds, smells, and environments to build their confidence.
Regular vet checkups: Just like any animal, blind animals require regular veterinary care. Be sure to keep up with checkups and any special needs they may have.

Key considerations before adopting a blind animal

Adopting a blind animal does require extra attention and commitment. Blind animals can live happy, fulfilling lives, but it’s important to consider their special needs. If you’re prepared for a companion who might need a little more guidance and care, adopting a blind animal can be a deeply rewarding experience. With patience, love, and understanding, your blind animal can bring joy and companionship to your life.

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.

Respiratory diseases are very common in cats, and shouldn’t be an immediate cause for alarm. However there is an emerging disease coming- H5N1, better known as Bird Flu.

This started out in wild bird populations, but in March of 2024 was detected in dairy cattle in the US. It was noted not long after that cats on these dairy farms became sick, and many of them died. These cats were drinking raw, unpasteurized milk directly from the cows. It was sequenced and found to be the same strain that the cows had. More recently, cats that have been fed raw diets have also been coming down with the Bird Flu. The bad news is, this is not your usual upper respiratory tract infection. These cats present with pneumonia, loss of appetite, fever, and neurological signs such as tremors, seizures and blindness. Euthanasia is almost always performed for these cats. Cats that have outdoor access are also at risk, as they may hunt wild birds that have H5N1.

Current veterinary recommendations are:

Keep cats indoors
Do not feed raw diets, especially those containing poultry (chicken and duck)
Do not feed raw dairy products
Keep cats up to date on rabies vaccination, as signs can mimic rabies infection

Speak with your family veterinarian if you have any concerns about your cats, and H5N1.

– Jill K Kirk, DVM, MS, Chief Veterinary Officer, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society.

MARCH BREAK! How exciting! Time for the children to have some time off from studies and relax!

But maybe you’re thinking that it’s not so great because now you must come up with things for them to do all day long! Here are some great ideas for things to do with your kids, and your fur-kids, during this week off.

There’s a reason why most dog toys have squeakers and crinkle materials inside. Dogs love toys that respond by making noise. A simple dog toy is to take a plastic water bottle and place it in either a sock or an old t-shirt. If placing the bottle in a sock, simply close the opening by tying a knot.

If using a t-shirt, wrap the bottle as you would a burrito (by tucking the sides in and rolling), then take leftover strips of fabric and tightly secure the shirt onto the bottle. Dogs will love the crumple sound every time they press down on the bottle. Always ensure the bottle cap has been removed to prevent ingestion should the dog get the bottle free.

Check out our blog for some handmade toy ideas for cats and dogs!

Catch up on some movie watching!

Stay in, cuddle up on the couch and watch some movies together! We have a great selection of animal movies we’ve picked out for you, your kids and fur babies to enjoy!

101 Dalmatians
Ice Age
Because of Winn-Dixie
The Lion King
Stuart Little
March of the Penguins
Finding Nemo
Marley and Me
Ratatouille

Take the family for a hike

Beautiful day and want to go outdoors instead? Walking your dog can do a lot for your own health! And what better way to exhaust kids’ energy then going for a fun hike together.

Check out our blog on Hiking with Fido and start planning your outdoor adventure.

Now get out there and enjoy the week with your family!!

Guest blog by Dr Emmanuel Fontaine, Scientific Communications Veterinarian at Royal Canin North America

One of the most common questions I receive is, “How can I eliminate parvo from my yard?” This inquiry isn’t merely a curiosity but a vital imperative. The battle against parvo, especially in purging it from our surroundings, is formidable. Successfully eradicating Parvo from your yard entails more than just following basic procedures; it necessitates a comprehensive strategy… along with a deep understanding of the virus and effective sanitation measures. In this blog, we’ll address this multifaceted challenge, offering you the essential knowledge and steps to safeguard your cherished pups!

What exactly is canine parvovirus… and what impact does it Have on your yard?

Parvo, short for canine parvovirus, is a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus that poses a significant threat to dogs, particularly puppies.

This virus primarily targets the gastrointestinal system, causing severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), loss of appetite, lethargy, and dehydration.

Puppies are especially vulnerable to parvo due to their immature immune systems, making them more susceptible to the virus’s devastating effects.

The transmission of Parvo occurs through the fecal-oral route, a term commonly used in veterinary medicine to explain disease spread.

Essentially, “fecal-oral” means the virus is present in the feces of infected dogs, capable of infecting others through direct or indirect contact.

Not only solid waste but also other bodily fluids like vomit can carry and transmit the virus.

This emphasizes the necessity of rigorous cleanliness and hygiene in outdoor areas where dogs frequent.

And what makes the canine parvovirus particularly challenging is its basic structure.

As a naked virus, essentially consisting of DNA, it displays remarkable resilience in the environment.

Once outside a host, it remains dormant, just a strand of DNA waiting for another dog to come into contact with it… and it can persist for an extended period, even up to a year, according to research.

This endurance presents a significant obstacle in controlling its transmission, as it can linger long after an infected dog has left the area.

The lasting presence of the virus means that outdoor spaces like kennels and yards can remain infectious for prolonged periods, posing continuous risks to any unvaccinated dogs that enter.

Why is disinfecting yards for parvo a challenge?

The battle against Canine Parvovirus relies on choosing the right weapon – the most potent disinfectant.

Fortunately, some products are specifically crafted to obliterate Parvo and other stubborn viruses in outdoor settings.

Disinfectants are substances engineered to obliterate pathogens and viruses, including the formidable parvovirus.

However, identifying a genuine disinfectant requires more than grabbing any cleaning product from the shelf; it necessitates scrutinizing the active ingredients.

Consider a typical cleaning aisle in a North American grocery store, brimming with household names like Lysol, Pine-Sol, Mr. Clean, and Clorox. Surprisingly, among these renowned brands, only one might effectively combat parvo…

In case you’re curious, that would be Clorox, as it contains sodium hypochlorite—also known as bleach—known for its efficacy against naked viruses like parvo.

This revelation underscores the importance of discerning which active compounds truly combat this resilient virus.

When it comes to wiping out Parvo, three compounds stand out:

Active Compound	Description
Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach)	Renowned for its effectiveness, bleach is a go-to choice for killing parvo. One thing to know though: for bleach to be efficient against parvo, it is recommended *to use* *at least a 5% bleach solution at 1:32 dilution and let it sit for 10 minutes* *before rinsing!*
Potassium Peroxymonosulfate (Virkon)	Another powerful ally in this battle, potassium peroxymonosulfate is known for its efficacy against tough viruses like parvo. *This one also requires a 10-minute contact time to be efficient on parvo*. Rinsing is not required after its use.
Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide (AHPs)	AHPs offer a potent yet safer alternative, effectively destroying parvo while being less harsh on surfaces and the environment. Those products have become the norm in human hospitals and in animal shelters and veterinary clinics, they usually wear the acronym “AHP” on them. *Contact time is around 5 minutes, and no rinsing required!*

However, a major constraint arises from the interaction with organic matter, and in our scenario, it’s a substantial one!

When disinfectants encounter organic matter—such as feces, vomit, or bodily fluids, common in cases of Parvo infection—their effectiveness diminishes significantly.

Hence, a proper sanitation protocol always involves a two-step approach:

Firstly, cleaning to eradicate the organic matter, essentially ‘getting rid of the dirt,’ where elbow grease remains the ultimate cleaner.
THEN, disinfecting to eradicate any lingering pathogens.

Now that you grasp the principles involved, you likely appreciate why applying them to outdoor spaces like yards and grassy areas presents a unique set of hurdles.

While traditional disinfectants excel on indoor surfaces and items like bowls, they falter outdoors.

The presence of soil, grass, and other natural elements—essentially organic matter—swiftly neutralizes these disinfectants, reducing their efficacy against the robust parvovirus.

Even powerful solutions like AHP face limitations when dealing with the substantial organic matter present in yards and outdoor settings.

How to prevent future parvo outbreaks in your yard?

After exploring various methods for tackling Parvo in outdoor spaces, one thing becomes abundantly clear: completely eliminating Parvo from such environments presents an incredibly daunting, if not nearly impossible, task.

Yet, in my opinion, there exists a far superior strategy!

A more practical approach: Parvo vaccination!

The most effective defence against Parvo is ensuring that every dog entering your yard has already developed a robust immune response to this pathogen, thereby ensuring thorough protection against future outbreaks.

Vaccination against parvo is highly effective, and adhering to vaccination guidelines is crucial.

Pay close attention to your veterinarian’s recommendations on this topic, and don’t hesitate to ask questions!

It’s essential to emphasize: despite common misconceptions, parvo is still prevalent, with numerous cases reported throughout the year.

This reality underscores the importance of following vaccination schedules, especially for puppies during their weaning and early pediatric phases.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

– Puppies initially receive immunity through colostrum from their mothers. However, this protection starts to decline around 8 to 12 weeks of age, leaving them more vulnerable to parvo. In some cases, this decline can occur even earlier, depending on the quality and quantity of colostrum ingested.

– Vaccinations aim to stimulate the puppy’s immune response as maternal protection decreases. Maternal antibodies received via colostrum can interfere with vaccine-induced immunity, creating a vulnerable period known as the immunity gap. Therefore, the timing of vaccination is crucial!

– Current recommendations advise starting vaccination at 6 weeks of age, with repeat doses every 3 to 4 weeks until 16 weeks of age.

A booster vaccination is then suggested at one year of age, followed by boosters every three years.

Enhancing puppy immunity: The role of nutrition

Nutrition often flies under the radar as a key factor in boosting a puppy’s immune system.

The right diet can significantly amplify a puppy’s immune response.

Certain nutrients, such as antioxidants and beta-glucans, have been proven to notably enhance a puppy’s immune system development. Studies indicate that puppies fed diets enriched with these nutrients exhibit more robust responses to vaccinations.

When choosing a diet for your puppy, prioritize options that promote immune development.

Seek out packaging claims that emphasize this aspect—it’s an investment in your puppy’s health and resilience.

Another critical consideration is the cultivation of your puppy’s digestive microbiome.

Today, experts increasingly recognize the microbiome as a vital organ and this intricate community of microorganisms in the digestive tract indeed plays a pivotal role in overall health and significantly influences immune function development.

So definitely an important aspect to consider when picking up a diet for your puppy!

While there are methods available for eliminating parvo in the yard, these solutions may seem intricate and overwhelming for many pet owners. A more practical and efficient approach involves prioritizing the development of robust immunity in our canine companions. This approach is not only simpler but also more attainable for most situations. Let’s concentrate our efforts on ensuring our dogs receive thorough vaccination and their immune systems are adequately fortified against parvo. In doing so, we not only protect our beloved pets but also gain peace of mind for ourselves.

——————————————————————————————————————————-

Emmanuel Fontaine graduated from the Toulouse Veterinary School in 2004, he continued his studies at the Alfort Veterinary School (Paris) as trainee Vet in the domestic carnivore unit of the Reproduction Department. From 2005 to 2011, he worked at the Centre d Étude en Reproduction des Carnivores (CERCA) [Research Centre for Reproduction in Carnivores], a unit specializing in pet breeding assistance. Emmanuel Fontaine is also qualified at the European College for Animal Reproduction (ECAR) and completed his PhD in 2012 on the use of GnRH agonists in canines. From September 2011 to September 2018, he worked as Technical Services Veterinarian for the PRO team at Royal Canada. He then was in charge of Scientific Communication for the Americas until August 2022. He now works as Senior Scientific Communications Veterinarian for Royal Canin North America.

Small animals have specific needs, just like cats and dogs. With a few simple steps, you can enrich your pet’s environment!

Environmental Enrichment

Hiding

All small animals need the opportunity to hide. Many of the small animals in our animal centres are a prey species and so they may feel threatened or startled by any unfamiliar sound or person. They need to be provided with a safe place where they can retreat.

Hiding places might also be seen as bathrooms by our small furry friends, which means these areas need to be cleaned or replaced more frequently. Examples of hiding places to place in an enclosure include, but are not limited to:

Plastic igloo
Small cardboard boxes
Tunnels (PVC piping, dryer piping, toilet paper rolls)
Tents
Paper bags

Nesting material

Aside from bedding, nesting material should be provided for the small animal to build a nest or resting place for themselves. This will provide physical and mental stimulation and occupy their time as well.

Examples for nesting material include:

Cotton balls
Pieces of fleece
Shredded newspaper
Toilet paper
Hay

Climbing

Many small animals find enjoyment in climbing. This will provide opportunities for exploration and exercise.

Multiple levels, perches, shelves
Hammocks
Plastic tubes that connect
Pull string through toilet paper tubes and hang them across the cage
Ladders
Braid fleece to make a rope to hang across the cage

Let’s keep our small animals active and stimulated to keep them happy and healthy!

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.

Daylight savings time can be difficult to adjust to, even for your furry friends. The time change means a change to their routines and feeding schedules, which can be disorienting – just like it is for us! However, there are some tips that can come in handy to help transition your furry friends into the new time zone.

Here are a few ways you can make the time change easier for your furry friend.

Daylight savings tips for your furry friend

1. Prepare your furry friend in advance

If your companion animal has a strict and reliable feeding schedule, you can move their mealtime by small increments leading up to when the clocks go ahead. For example, if you start a few days ahead, you can shift the feeding time by 15 or 20 minutes per day to make it easier for your furry friend to adjust.

2. Splitting the difference (if you forget)

If you forget to change your furry friend’s schedule the week ahead, then on the day of daylight savings, you can split the time in half and feed your furry friend 30 minutes earlier than normal.

3. Doing the process backwards

Another way to make this change easier on your pets is to ignore the clocks on Sunday morning and feed your furry friend at their regular time. Then over the following four days you can change their feeding time by 15-minute intervals.

By using one of these tips and successfully shifting your pet’s feeding times, you and your furry friend should be ready to adjust smoothly to the daylight savings time change!

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

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Midhurst/March 3, 2025 – The County of Simcoe and its partners at the Town of Wasaga Beach and Faith Missionary Church thank the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society for once again providing help so that vulnerable residents and their pets can stay warm this winter.

Through a generous donation from the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre, individuals experiencing homelessness can now bring their pets to the Wasaga Beach Warming Centre. The expanded partnership between the County and the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society allows unhoused people and their pets in the Wasaga Beach area more access to safe, warm facilities over the winter months.

The donation includes essential supplies such as food, crates, dog jackets, and ongoing support throughout the winter season.

While using County-funded warming centres, individuals can also access support to find shelter, housing, healthcare, and other services and supports. These services are part of a larger effort to help more individuals gain access to social and wellness-related assistance and help them move to other levels of housing supports if they choose.

The Wasaga Beach Warming Centre remains a true collaborative effort to support unhoused individuals. The Centre’s partners also include Faith Missionary Church, who provides shelter and food, the Town of Wasaga Beach, who has generously donated cots, bedding and local public transit, and the County of Simcoe with financial support for its operations through funding of operator costs, food, and needed supplies.

Quotes

“As part of its expanded partnership with the County of Simcoe, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is once again helping unhoused people in Wasaga Beach keep their pets close while accessing critical support during the coldest months of the year. Animals provide crucial emotional support and motivation during difficult times, and this collaboration ensures that unhoused individuals can receive care without worrying about separating from their beloved pets.”
~ Basil Clarke, Warden, County of Simcoe

“This partnership is a heartwarming example of how we can work together to make a difference. Thanks to the generous support of the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre, individuals experiencing homelessness now have a safe place to come in from the cold with their pets this winter. It’s a reminder that compassion doesn’t stop at people – it extends to our furry friends too. The Town of Wasaga Beach is proud to be a part of this effort to help ensure that our most vulnerable citizens are not forced to choose between their safety and the well-being of their pets.”
~ Brian Smith, Mayor, Town of Wasaga Beach

“The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society wants to keep animals with the families who love them. By working together, we can help make that possible. We are very appreciative to everyone who has come together to make this pet-friendly warming centre a reality.”

~ Shannon Laflamme, Community Outreach Coordinator, Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre

About the Wasaga Beach Warming Centre

The Wasaga Beach Warming Centre is a temperature-activated warming centre when temperatures are expected to fall below -10°C. It operates up to seven nights per week, from 8:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m.

The warming services funded by the County of Simcoe complement regular municipal service contributions as part of its 10-point Homelessness Prevention Strategy. Anyone needing shelter or warmth can call 2-1-1 to connect with a nearby shelter or visit simcoe.ca/WinterWarming for location information. For more information about the homelessness prevention plan and updates, visit simcoe.ca/HomelessnessSystem.

Keeping pets safe during the coldest months of the year

As winter progresses, it’s crucial to monitor your pet’s well-being during cold weather. Watch for signs that your pet may be too cold, including:

Shaking or shivering
Changes in behaviour
Lifting paws off the ground
Signs of hypothermia (weakness, lethargy, muscle stiffness)

It’s important to pay attention to these warning signs, but you shouldn’t wait to see the first signs of discomfort to find warm shelter. Remember: if you think it’s too cold for you, then it’s too cold for your dog.

While maintaining a dog’s exercise requirements during the winter is important, when conditions are especially cold, it’s a good idea to keep walks short and supplement your pet’s exercise with some indoor activities. For more tips on keeping your pets safe this winter, visit ontariospca.ca.

About the County of Simcoe

County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.

About the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

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

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

Media Relations

Ontario SPCA, Provincial Office

1-888-668-7722 ext. 375

[email protected]

Collin Matanowitsch

Manager, Public Relations County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department

705-734-8386 (mobile)

[email protected]

What would you do if you won the lottery?

Last fall, the winner of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery took home more than $142,000, helping us make a significant impact for animals across Ontario!

“It’s incredible to think of the huge impact that this money will have and the positive energy that it creates …, but specifically the difference that it’s going to make in the lives of these animals,” says Mathew, the lucky winner. “And the fact that it was raised, I believe, through so many small contributions, shows that there’s so much support for this cause and the well-being of animals in our communities.”

The Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of animals in need. By purchasing a ticket, you’re not only entering for a chance to win, but you’re also supporting animal welfare initiatives across the province.

“For me personally, I just felt good contributing towards the (Ontario) SPCA,” says Mathew.

Spring 2025 Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery fundraiser

Our spring Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery kicks off March 3 with the Grand Prize draw taking place on April 10. The guaranteed jackpot is $5,000, but the more tickets sold, the higher it will grow!

The excitement doesn’t end there – we will have five Early Bird draws of $500 leading up to the Grand Prize draw. The sooner you enter the draw, and the more tickets you buy, the better your chances are of winning!

$10 for 10 tickets
$20 for 40 tickets
$40 for 200 tickets
$75 for 500 tickets

Funds raised through the Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery support our life-changing work across the province, such as reducing pet overpopulation, providing veterinary care in underserved areas, and improving shelter life for furry friends waiting for forever homes through the Ontario SPCA Community Access to Resources, Education, and Support (CARES) Fund.  The CARES Fund is a new grant program designed to support SPCAs and Humane Societies in Ontario by providing funding for projects that enhance animal welfare. To learn more, visit ontariospca.ca/caresfund

As a registered charity that receives no annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA relies on the generosity of our donors to help make programs and services possible that support animals and the families who love them.

You could be the next Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery winner! To learn more and purchase your tickets today, visit ontariospcalottery.ca  

RAF1446521

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (March 3, 2025) – Spring is just around the corner and you can help an animal in need blossom by taking part in the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s Spring Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery, kicking off today!

This is your chance to win big and make a difference by supporting animal welfare initiatives across the province. Last year, the Grand Prize winner took home more than $142,000 – just imagine the possibilities if you’re the lucky winner!

The Grand Prize draw takes place on April 10, but don’t wait – buying your tickets early will enter you into five Early Bird draws, each with a $500 prize. Tickets are available for as little as $10 for 10 tickets, or up to $75 for 500 tickets. Tickets can be purchased at ontariospcalottery.ca

The Ontario SPCA is a registered charity that relies on the generosity of donors, as it does not receive annual government funding. The Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery is a fun, easy way to help animals in need across the province, plus you could win big! When you purchase a ticket, you’re not just playing for a prize – you’re also helping animals who need love, care, and shelter.

“The Draws for Paws 50/50 Lottery is an exciting way to spring into action to support deserving animals who need us,” says Stephanie Miller, Vice President, Development, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Your support helps ensure animals have what they need to thrive. Plus, with the chance to win big, it’s a win-win for everyone!”

Get your tickets today at ontariospcalottery.ca and help make a pawsitive impact!

Lottery License No. RAF1446521

Note to producers/editors: B-roll footage is available at https://youtu.be/NqjJct00Wco

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 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.

We have some exciting news to share! The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s Provincial Dog Rehabilitation Centre (PDRC) is now able to support dogs from other SPCAs and Humane Societies to help give them the extra TLC they need to find loving homes.

The Ontario SPCA Provincial Dog Rehabilitation Centre opened in 2023 in Peterborough and was custom-built to help dogs who need more individualized care than a typical animal centre can provide to help them get adopted.

Operated by the Ontario SPCA’s Animal Behaviour team, the centre has been supporting dogs from Ontario SPCA animal centres across the province. In January 2025, we began welcoming dogs from external organizations through an application process.

“We’re so happy to be able to expand the behavioural support provided to dogs through the PDRC to dogs from other organizations,” says Tracy McElman, the Ontario SPCA’s Provincial Operations Manager. “We’re giving them the chance to gain foundational skills and confidence to thrive in their new homes and build lasting, positive relationships with their new families.”

About the Provincial Dog Rehabilitation Centre

Located inside the inside the Peterborough Animal Care Centre, the PDRC contains several unique features:

An underwater treadmill for enrichment and low-impact exercise
The Arlo Gattuso-Slaight Dog Living Room to help dogs practice appropriate behaviours in a home environment
Training rooms to help dogs overcome behavioural challenges and learn to socialize
Dedicated animal behavioural experts focused on each dog’s unique needs

Dogs at the PDRC receive multiple out-of-kennel enrichments per day and are provided with ample activities that meet their needs, such as shredding, scavenging, sniffing, brain games, and more. Each dog also spends time in the living room, as well as participating in office enrichment and training sessions, which help to reduce fear, anxiety, stress, and frustration related behaviours that can occur in a typical shelter environment.

“The dedicated team at the PDRC has had such a wonderful and profound impact on dogs within our organization,” says Kassie Dickson, Animal Behaviour Coordinator with the Ontario SPCA. “I’m very excited to see how many more friends the PDRC will help with this initiative.”

Learn more about the Provincial Dog Rehabilitation at ontariospca.ca/dogrehab

Any organization that would like more information on the PDRC programming, or how to submit a Behavioral Support Request, can contact the PDRC team at [email protected]

As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to provide services, such as the Provincial Dog Rehabilitation Centre. Please consider donating today.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cornwall, ON (February 27, 2025) – Looking for fun activities for the kids this March Break? The Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre has some exciting events and activities planned for the community, including a Harry Potter trivia night, arts and crafts, and a colouring activity!

Kicking off the festivities is a Harry Potter Trivia Night on March 3, hosted by Boston Pizza in Cornwall in support of the Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre. Enjoy a magical evening of trivia from 5-9 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person, with teams of 4-6 players. Fantastic prizes await! Don’t miss this chance to showcase your wizarding knowledge while supporting a great cause.

The animal centre is also partnering with the Ingleside Library to host some fun activities for kids ages 8-13. On March 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and March 13 from 5-7 p.m., join the Ontario SPCA at the library for an interactive AnimalSmart™ presentation followed by some fun arts and crafts activities.

For young artists, the animal centre also has a fun colouring activity that runs from March 7-16. Pick up a colouring page from the animal centre, located at 550 Boundary Rd. in Cornwall, or a participating local business. Take a photo of your completed masterpiece and tag the Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Gelngarry Animal Centre on Facebook or Instagram for your chance to have your work featured on the animal centre’s social channels.

Don’t miss out on these exciting March Break events! For more information, visit ontariospca.ca/sdg and be sure to follow the animal centre on Facebook and Instagram.

Media Contact

Arianne Kirkey
Community Outreach Coordinator,
Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre
(613) 937-7622
[email protected]

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

The Ontario SPCA Stormont Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre is located on the lands of the Akwesasne Mohawks and their ancestors. We also acknowledge the Algonquin, Haudenosaunee (Ho-den-oshow-nee) (Iroquois), Huron-Wendat (huron-wen·dat), and Abenaki who are neighbours and partners to the Akwesasne Mohawk.