Page 22 – Ontario SPCA

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Constance Lake First Nation, ON (June 3, 2025) – More than 100 animals received essential care during a four-day spay/neuter and wellness event hosted in Constance Lake First Nation, thanks to a partnership between the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, the local community, and PetSmart Charities of Canada®.

A total of 48 dogs and cats were spayed or neutered during the event, which took place May 22-25, preventing an estimated 1,600 unplanned puppies and kittens. The team also provided 54 wellness appointments and administered 251 vaccines – critical steps in preventing disease and supporting healthier animals.

“To the veterinarians, technicians, volunteers, and support staff – thank you for your professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment. You are making a difference every single day, and this clinic was a shining example of that,” says Rick Allen, Chief of Constance Lake First Nation. “These preventative measures are vital for controlling disease, improving animal health, and supporting a safer, healthier community overall. We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Ontario SPCA and PetSmart Charities for their generous grant, which helped make this clinic possible.”

This event was supported by an Incubator grant from PetSmart Charities of Canada®, which empowers organizations to create veterinary and animal wellness programs that are rooted in community guidance. The grant represents a three-year commitment to co-develop sustainable veterinary access in Constance Lake First Nation, with ongoing input from those who call it home.

“Universally, people overwhelmingly say pets are family – yet our research shows half of pet parents have skipped or declined veterinary care, with many more who haven’t been able to access it at all,” says Kate Atema, Director of Community Grants & Initiatives at PetSmart Charities of Canada. “This issue affects pet parents across many provinces in Canada – but becomes even more challenging for Indigenous people in regions where health, nutrition and other services are difficult to access. We’re proud to support our partners like the Ontario SPCA as they collaborate with local leaders at Constance Lake First Nation to co-create new models of vet care that meet cultural, regional and financial needs.”

This was the second event held in Constance Lake in partnership with the Ontario SPCA and PetSmart Charities. Since the first clinic, the community has continued to shape what animal wellness looks like locally – sharing stories, voicing needs, and driving decisions.

“This clinic wasn’t just about delivering care, it was about connection,” says Arista Wogenstahl, Northern Regional Manager, Community Outreach Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “We’re grateful to Constance Lake First Nation for welcoming us and for the trust they placed in us. Thanks to the support of PetSmart Charities of Canada, this clinic was a step forward in building lasting, community-led solutions for animal wellness. By working together, the goal is not just to deliver care, but also to help build relationships, deepen trust, and support long-term well-being for both animals and the people who love them.”

The Ontario SPCA is committed to reaching underserved communities with its MASH-style spay/neuter and wellness clinics. These portable outreach events are designed to be easily packed up and transported wherever they are needed, including remote communities. These clinics are grounded in listening and collaboration. Each visit is shaped by the voices of local leaders, families, and caregivers who share what matters most to them.

To learn more about the Ontario SPCA’s mobile animal wellness services, visit ontariospca.ca/mobileservices

Media Contacts

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

PetSmart Charities Media Line
623-587-2177

About the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

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

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

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Provincial Office sits on the traditional territory of the Wendat, the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the Mississaugas of Scugog, Hiawatha and Alderville First Nations and the Métis Nation. This territory was the subject of the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, an agreement between the Iroquois Confederacy and the Ojibwe and allied nations to peaceably share and care for the resources around the Great Lakes. The treaties that were signed for this particular parcel of land are collectively referred to as the Williams Treaties of 1923

About PetSmart Charities of Canada®

PetSmart Charities of Canada is committed to making the world a better place for pets and all who love them. Through its in-store adoption program in all PetSmart^® stores across the country, PetSmart Charities of Canada helps thousands of pets connect with loving families each year. PetSmart Charities of Canada also provides grant funding to support organizations that advocate and care for the well-being of all pets and their families. Our grants and efforts connect pets with loving homes through adoption, improve access to affordable veterinary care and support families in times of crisis with access to food, shelter, and emergency relief. Each year, thousands of generous supporters help pets in need by donating to PetSmart Charities of Canada directly at PetSmartCharities.ca, while shopping at PetSmart.ca, and by using the PIN pads at checkout registers inside PetSmart stores. In turn, PetSmart Charities of Canada efficiently uses more than 90 cents of every dollar donated to fulfill its role as the leading funder of animal welfare in Canada, granting more than $35 million since its inception in 1999. Independent from PetSmart LLC, PetSmart Charities of Canada is a registered Canadian charity. To learn more visit www.PetSmartCharities.ca.

Nail trimming can be seen as a source of stress for our animals and even for us as pet parents. It’s time to take the fear out of this routine grooming practice. You’ll be clipping claws and pampering your pet’s paws in no time with tips from Fear Free ® Happy Homes.

Ready your environment

Set the scene to be calm and inviting for your furry friend before you begin. Fear Free® recommends eliminating slippery surfaces by laying down a rug or towel. To appeal to your animal’s other senses, playing some calm music and having soothing scents is also advised.

Of course, you’ll want to make sure your furry friend’s favourite treats are within reach, too!

Ready your furry friend

Fear Free® stresses the fact that nail trimming is a process – especially during your animal’s first time! By letting your companion animal get comfortable with the room and the sight, sound and feeling of the tool, you will make them more at ease.

Fear Free® recommends introducing your animal to the process in steps:

Accustom your friend to the environment
Introduce the sight of the trimming tool
Imitate the nail trimmer sound near your furry friend
Touch their nails repeatedly without the trimming tool
Squeeze their paw gently, repeatedly
Touch the trimmer to your animal’s nail repeatedly
Slowly and carefully trim one nail at a time

Ready your equipment

Nail trimming can be done with either nail clippers or nail grinders. If your furry friend has never had their nails trimmed, start with the tool you’re most comfortable using and assess their reaction. If your animal has previously been stressed by the use of one tool, try another type until they are calmer.

Whichever tool you choose to use, Fear Free® has tips for both.

Fear Free® Clipper Tips:

Use sharp clippers and sharpen them regularly.
Trim small amounts of the nail more often, rather than large pieces less often.
Make sure to locate the nail’s blood supply (quick) to avoid trimming the nail too close.

Fear Free® Grinder Tips:

Locate the quick (if possible).
Ensure you have a firm and comfortable hold on the device.
Consider using a quieter tool with adjustable speeds.
Grind for small periods at a time to avoid the tool causing your animal discomfort.
Gently hold back paw fur from the nail.

SUPPORT

For pup paw pampering, watch our resource: How to trim your pet’s nails.

For dark nail tips, watch our resource: How to trim your dog’s dark nails.

If nail trimming is still a source of stress for you or your furry friend, contact your animal’s veterinarian for advice and support.

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 dark nail tips, watch our resource: How to trim your dog’s dark nails.

If you still find yourself or your companion animal experiencing stress with nail trimming, contact your animal’s veterinarian for advice and support.

At the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, we believe in the power of community — and that includes the dedicated veterinary professionals who work tirelessly every day to care for our beloved pets. These unsung heroes help keep families together by ensuring our furry companions stay healthy and happy. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce the return of our Veterinary Appreciation Contest, running from June 2–15, 2025!

This campaign is our way of saying thank you to the veterinarians, technicians, and support staff across Ontario who go above and beyond. It’s also an exciting opportunity for pet lovers like you to give back — by nominating and voting for your favourite local clinic!

Ontario SPCA Veterinary Appreciation Contest

This year, we’ve made the contest even easier to participate in:

Nomination Week: From June 2-8, show your appreciation by nominating your veterinary clinic on our contest platform at vetappreciation.ca. Simply provide the details of the clinic you’d like to recognize.
Voting Week: From June 9-15, visit vetappreciation.ca. to cast your vote. Ask your friends and family to show their support by voting as well! You can search for your clinic by name or city, and your vote will help decide which clinic wins this year’s prize.
Winner Announcement: On June 16, the winning clinic — determined by your votes — will receive a special plaque of recognition and a delicious lunch for their hardworking team, courtesy ofthe Ontario SPCA!

Clinics will also have access to a downloadable digital asset kit from our contest page to help them rally support on social media from their community.

Whether it’s a routine checkup or lifesaving emergency care, veterinary professionals make a difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them. Let’s show them how much we care.

Nominate, vote, and help us celebrate the clinics that care — visit vetappreciation.ca today!

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (June 2, 2025) – Say thank you to the veterinary professionals who care for the animals you love by nominating your clinic in the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s Veterinary Appreciation Contest.

Veterinary professionals go above and beyond every day to keep our pets happy and healthy. Now it’s your turn to celebrate them. Nominate your veterinary clinic by June 8 at vetappreciation.ca and then rally your family and friends to vote between June 9-15 to show their support.

The clinic with the most votes will be awarded a plaque and treated to a complimentary lunch for their staff — a small but meaningful way to show how much we value their dedication and compassion.

“Veterinary professionals play a vital role in the health and well-being of our pets, and we’re excited to celebrate their dedication through this contest,” says Dr. Jill Kirk, Chief Veterinary Officer, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “It’s our way of recognizing their incredible compassion, expertise, and commitment — and we invite everyone to nominate their pet’s clinic as a heartfelt way to say thanks.”

To learn more, nominate your veterinary clinic, or see nominated clinics in your community, visit vetappreciation.ca

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.

Thinking of adopting a furry family member? Consider a rabbit! Not only are rabbits fluffy and adorable, but they also make great friends. Here are four reasons rabbits make great companions:

Rabbits make great indoor furry friends

Don’t have a big backyard? No problem. As social animals who are also vulnerable to predators, rabbits are content to be inside. Because they frighten easily, keeping your rabbit indoors where it isn’t as noisy makes for a happy, comfortable bunny environment. In addition, most bunnies can be litter box trained like a cat, so daily care is easier for you.

Rabbits love exercise

Rabbits need space to exercise daily, whether it’s running or jumping. You can easily set up a playpen, rabbit-proof room, or even a small, closed-off outdoor area where you can be close by while they exercise. Get creative – there are lots of easy things you can do to make exercise fun and mentally stimulating for your rabbit.

Rabbits have distinct personalities and bond with their adopters

Rabbits have very distinct personalities – some may be more playful while others can be quite shy. By taking the time to get to know and love your rabbit’s personality, you’ll see them thrive in your home. Check out our blog for tips on how to read your rabbit’s body language.

Rabbits can live up to ten years

A well cared-for rabbit can live anywhere between seven to 10 years! That’s a whole lot of time to enjoy the many perks of being a bunny parent.

There are so many benefits that come with adopting a rabbit and the perfect one for you might just be waiting to be adopted right now. If you’re interested in adopting a bunny, check out our adoption page to see rabbits waiting for their loving homes.

Not in a position to adopt? Consider making a gift today to help care for a rabbit as they wait for their forever home.

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

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.

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.