Page 25 – Ontario SPCA

A lot of pets enjoy being outside! They thrive on fresh air and exercise. But in the frigid temperatures that come with the winter season, there are big dangers, such as hypothermia. Learn more about how to prevent hypothermia and how to recognize the signs.

Prevention

Prevention is essential. While some animals may have a thick coat, wind and extreme temperatures can still affect their ability to stay warm. If it’s windy enough to lift the fur, cold gets direct access to vulnerable skin. This is why listening to the “windchill” reports is crucial. The combination of the temperature and the wind is critical.

If your animal spends extended periods of time outside, they will need to have ready and accessible access to a proper shelter so they can get out of the wind when they need to.

What do to if you suspect hypothermia

If you suspect hypothermia or have any questions or concerns, please contact your veterinarian right away. Hypothermia is a very serious drop in body temperature. All furry friends are at risk, but younger and older animals, animals with short or matted hair, as well as animals with underlying medical issues may be especially vulnerable.

Mild signs of hypothermia include shivering. Your animal may also hunch up their body. If you notice these signs, you should feel extremities like feet, ears and tail to see how cold they are. These areas are especially susceptible to frostbite and may appear very pale and be painful to touch. Frostbite can develop over several days, so it is important to monitor very carefully after prolonged exposure to the cold.

Move your furry friend into a warm environment, and warm up a bath towel in the dryer to bundle up your furry friend. As hypothermia progresses, furry friends may stop shivering and may become more lethargic and confused. They may also have pale gums and develop stiff muscles resulting in difficulty walking.

Caution is also needed when warming up areas of frostbite. These areas need to be warmed up gently and slowly. Your veterinarian will help to provide specific instructions tailored to your furry friend’s needs.

Be proactive and keep your furry family members warm and safe this winter 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.

Did you know that February is Dental Health Awareness Month for our pets? The Ontario SPCA and our friends at Royal Canin want to remind caregivers that, like us, our pets need regular dental care, and that care should happen year-round and not just during the month of February.

Dental health needs vary

There is no “one size fits all” situation for dental health, but there are lots of options for our pets to live their best life. All pets are different, and they will develop tartar at differing rates. Our pet’s age, size, breed, genetics, and lifestyle can all contribute to the development and progression of dental disease. In fact, a study published in 2021 showed that small dogs are at higher risk of developing tartar and dental disease than larger dogs and they tend to show evidence of dental tartar at a much younger age. Cats seem to fall somewhere in the middle.

Daily tooth brushing is the first line of defence

In a perfect world, we would train all our puppies and kittens to allow daily teeth brushing, just like we do with our furless children. Though this takes time and commitment, it can be done. This approach is the gold standard and the ideal situation. This is what we do for ourselves and certainly the data supports that human health improved dramatically when society moved to daily dental care for the masses.

Our pets are no different in their needs, so early training and a commitment to brushing will ultimately help our pets be as healthy as possible in addition to minimizing mouth pain. Have you ever had a toothache? When our pets have dental disease, their mouths can be very painful and in very small pets, dental disease can even increase the risk of jaw fractures!

Speak to your veterinarian about the best approach and product for your animal. Make sure to never use human toothpaste or rinses for your animal.

So, what if I have a pet who isn’t a puppy or kitten? Secondly, life is so busy that I can barely get my own teeth brushed so brushing my pet’s teeth is a no go! Don’t worry, we can help you get started at improving your pet’s dental health.

Teach an old dog new tricks

What you may be thinking: My pet isn’t a baby anymore and has never had his/her teeth brushed, so I’m sure that it is not worth trying. WRONG. That old saying of “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is a complete fallacy. While training from puppyhood or kittenhood is best, those older dogs (and cats) can certainly learn new tricks.

Dogs and cats are very clever and learn with just a little training. Your veterinary clinic can no doubt set you up with a “how to” document that teaches you how to teach your pet to accept dental care.

Even if you can’t commit to daily brushing, even doing this a few times per week or on some regular schedule can still benefit your pet. That said, even with daily brushing, we humans still need to have a professional cleaning done on a regular basis to keep our teeth as healthy as possible, and so will our pets.

Understanding dental diets

What about those of you whose lives are simply so chaotic right now that toothbrushing is impossible, or if you have a pet who simply will not allow you near their mouth? In these cases, there are other ways to help slow the deposition of plaque and tartar in between professional cleanings.

Certain pet foods contain specific nutrients and unique formulations to help with this. You will often see these diets referred to as “dental” diets. What this means is that the kibble may be designed such that the action of chewing creates a scrubbing action on the surface of the teeth. These dental diets alter the size and shape of the kibble, in addition to the texture of the kibble, to allow this to happen. Not all kibbles are created equal.

The best way to think about this is to imagine taking a butter knife and pressing it into a cracker. As you press the knife down, the cracker just crumbles with very little pressure. This is what most kibble is like. Now think about pressing that same butter knife into an apple slice. That apple slice will allow the butter knife to slide further into it before it breaks apart. While that knife is sliding into the apple, imagine that the apple is “cleaning” the surface of the knife. In short, each tooth needs to slide deeper into it before it crumbles. This sliding action into a dental kibble creates that scrubbing action on the surface of your pet’s chewing teeth, much the same way that your toothbrush scrubs your teeth.

Some dental diets also contain nutrients which help to minimize calcium from depositing onto the plaque on the surface of the teeth. You may see them listed as things like sodium tripolyphosphate, sodium hexametaphosphate, or sodium pyrophosphate.

Tartar vs. plaque

Basically, tartar is calcified plaque. Plaque is the “fuzzy” feeling you get if you forget to brush your teeth, and tartar happens when calcium attaches to that plaque and hardens it. This calcification can begin within 24-48 hours of the fuzzy plaque deposition! This calcified tartar is what your dental hygienist removes during your annual professional tooth cleaning, and it is what your veterinarian removes during your pet’s professional cleaning, as well. Dental diets can be a fantastic way to help keep your pet’s teeth cleaner and healthier overall.

Choosing the right dental chew

Okay, so what about all those “dental chews” that I can find in stores. Do they work? Well, not all chewing is equal when it comes to dental prevention. Bones or hard chew toys will increase the risk of fracturing (breaking) your pet’s teeth, which will actually contribute to dental disease rather than help with it.

However, there are some dental chews on the market which have dental claims and are formulated to help support dental health. We need to remember though, dental chews are not calorie free, so choosing the right dental chew for the size of the pet is important, as our pets should not be getting more than 10% of their daily calories from a source which is nutritionally unbalanced.

Your vet can help you know how many calories your pet should be getting each day, which will help you find a chew that will fit into your pet’s calorie needs rather than being “extra” calories that we don’t think about.

Dental health takeaways

So, to round out this meandering thought process about February being Dental Health Awareness month, I have a couple of key takeaways for you.

Healthy teeth contribute to healthy pets.
We should think about dental care year-round.
There are multiple ways to help keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy.
Ask your vet about your pet’s dental health and don’t just wait until February to ask them.

Life is unpredictable and emergencies can happen. Just like us, our furry friends can get sick or injured unexpectedly. Those unforeseen expenses can put a huge strain on your budget. Protecting your animal with pet insurance allows you to fulfill your promise to them – that in exchange for unconditional love, you’ll safeguard their well-being.

Here are 5 reasons why pet insurance is worth every penny:

Emergencies – When an emergency happens and your furry family member needs veterinary care, the last thing you want to think about is money. Having insurance means you know you’re covered if something happens to your pet.
You aren’t a psychic – You can’t possibly know when an emergency will occur, which is why it’s so important to purchase pet insurance before you need it. Each year, families with animals are stuck trying to purchase insurance after their animal has become sick or hurt. At that point, it’s unfortunately too late to get coverage for that particular accident or illness.
Picking a plan that fits your needs – Most pet insurance plans out there can be tailored to fit your financial needs and your animal’s medical needs. Find out your options before committing to a plan.
Picking a veterinarian of your choice – In most cases, plans allow you to choose the veterinarian who gives your animal their care. This makes things simpler for you, and more comfortable for your animal to be in the care of someone they trust!
Peace of mind – Having car insurance helps you feel safer on the roads, having home insurance helps you feel confident of the future, and having pet insurance is no different! Whatever way you look at it, having pet insurance can give you the peace of mind that your furry family member will be taken care of no matter what.

SPCA & Humane Society Pet Insurance Offered by Fetch

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society believes animals deserve the best care possible. Like us, our pets can get injured or sick. Pet insurance can help cover those unforeseen veterinary bills and help your furry friends stay healthy. That’s why we have joined paws with Fetch.

United in the sentiment that our pets are our family, the Ontario SPCA and Fetch believe that together, we have the tools to create a true wellness platform, not just an insurance product for pet parents and their beloved pets.

SPCA & Humane Society Pet Insurance offered by Fetch provides the most comprehensive pet insurance on the market, covering more conditions and procedures than any other brand – complete dental and sick-visit exam fees are all covered.

We know pet parents will go to the ends of the earth to keep their pets living their very best life. By staying a few steps ahead of your furry family member’s health needs today, you’ll help ensure they can keep doing all their favourite things tomorrow.

Learn more and Fetch a quote

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

Diarrhea in kittens prompts frequent visits to the veterinarian and often raises numerous questions. Believe me, it can be more than just a temporary inconvenience. Recently, I’ve come to understand that our approach to treating this condition plays a crucial role in preventing lasting gastrointestinal health issues. In this blog, we’ll shed light on essential aspects of managing kitten diarrhea.

Managing Kitten Diarrhea: Assess, Take Action, and Monitor

When your kitten is dealing with diarrhea, the initial step is to assess the situation thoroughly.

Tools like fecal score chartped and pediatric growth charts can provide you with valuable information here.

If the diarrhea isn’t severe and there are no concerning signs (like red or black stool color, foul odor, or lethargy), there are actionable steps you can take.

However, it’s important to note: if you’re unsure, always consult with a veterinarian.

Remember the age-old adage, particularly relevant for kittens: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Even if the situation appears to be under control, consistent monitoring is essential.

Regularly check the litter box to assess stool consistency, ideally 3-4 times a day.

Additionally, observe your kitten’s behavior to ensure it remains lively and unaffected.

In my experience, I follow a 24-hour guideline: if there’s no improvement within the next day after implementing the measures (which we’ll outline in the following section), it’s advisable to schedule a vet appointment.

This proactive approach is crucial for managing your kitten’s well-being and preventing any worsening of the condition.

Dietary Management for Kitten Diarrhea

When your kitten experiences diarrhea, the traditional advice has been to withhold food for 12-24 hours, providing only water. However, it’s essential to recognize that this approach is currently a topic of debate among veterinary professionals.

The conventional wisdom behind withholding food aims to rest the bowel, allowing the irritated gut to recover.

However, recent insights challenge this notion.

Fasting may not provide the bowel with the rest it needs; instead, it can trigger intense intestinal contractions, leading to discomfort. Conversely, feeding may reduce these contractions, promoting better rest and nutrient absorption. Additionally, having food in the system can protect the gut lining from toxins.

Given this perspective, if your kitten’s diarrhea is mild, continuing to feed them is advisable.

Opt for a highly digestible diet specifically formulated to support digestive health.

Such diets provide essential nutrients without overburdening the digestive tract.

Once you’ve selected a nutritional solution, it’s crucial to stick to it strictly.

Avoid offering treats or additional food items, as these could have initially triggered the digestive upset. Consistency in diet is vital for restoring and maintaining your kitten’s digestive health.

Consider meal-feeding your kitten with small, frequent meals, starting with around four meals per day.

This approach, though different from typical free-feeding, can be beneficial during digestive upsets.

Wet food can be particularly helpful, as it tends to contain fewer carbohydrates.

Digestive tract insults can impair the function of brush-border enzymes crucial for carbohydrate digestion. By offering wet food, you reduce the carbohydrate load, easing the digestive process. Once the issue resolves, you can gradually reintroduce dry food.

Remember, proper nutrition plays a significant role in managing gastrointestinal issues in kittens.

Pay attention to what, how, and how much you feed to ensure your kitten’s digestive health.

Smart Supplementation for Kittens with Diarrhea: Probiotics and Beyond

When contemplating probiotics and other supplements for kittens dealing with diarrhea, it’s crucial to grasp their role and employ them thoughtfully.

Probiotics, comprising beneficial bacteria, aid in rebalancing intestinal flora.

Supplements like psyllium seeds, rich in fiber, and prebiotics, which foster healthy gut bacteria, are often praised for supporting digestive well-being.

However, it is critical to remember that nutrition hinges on balance,

I’ve seen instances where an excess of supplements, intended to aid digestion, overstimulated the digestive system, leading to adverse effects.

My foremost recommendation is to opt for a kitten diet meticulously crafted to optimize digestive health.

I also advocate for mixed feeding—incorporating both wet and dry food—for its comprehensive nutritional benefits.

After selecting an appropriate diet, monitor your kitten’s response in conjunction with the dietary management strategies discussed earlier.

Before introducing any supplement, consult with your veterinarian.

Indiscriminate or excessive supplement use can prove counterproductive.

Proceed with Caution: Medicating Kittens with Diarrhea

When it comes to treating a kitten with diarrhea, exercising caution is essential.

While it might be tempting to utilize leftover antibiotics or over-the-counter human medications like electrolytes or Pepto-Bismol, self-medicating your kitten carries significant risks.

Consider antibiotics, for instance.

While they were once commonly prescribed for kitten diarrhea, their use is no longer standard practice for mild cases—and sometimes even for more severe ones.

Today, the emphasis is on nutritional interventions as the primary treatment.

Misusing antibiotics can disrupt a kitten’s digestive microbiome, potentially leading to chronic gastrointestinal issues later on.

While antibiotics may be necessary in certain instances, this decision should be made by your veterinarian. Generally, they are not recommended for mild cases.

The same caution applies to common human medications.

Many can be toxic to pets.

The overarching message is to avoid self-administering human drugs to your kitten.

Always seek guidance from your veterinarian before administering any medication to your cat.

While kitten diarrhea remains a frequent occurrence in veterinary practices, we are now more equipped than ever to address these cases effectively, with promising advancements on the horizon. Remember, staying informed and proactive is crucial for ensuring the health and happiness of your feline companions. As for me, I am committed to staying updated on the latest veterinary research, eagerly anticipating new breakthroughs that will refine our approach to these cases.

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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.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (February 3, 2025) – February just got a little sweeter thanks to Cupcake Day for the Ontario SPCA, which brings frosting-covered fun to the month as animal lovers bake, share, and raise vital funds to support animals in need.

Cupcake Day officially takes place Monday, Feb. 24 and it’s more than just a chance to enjoy delicious treats. By hosting a cupcake party or bake sale, participants raise much-needed funds for the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, a registered charity that relies on the generosity of donors to provide urgent care, shelter, and second chances to animals.

“Pre-heat your oven, put on your apron and get ready to raise some dough to help animals in need,” says Stephanie Miller, Vice President of Development at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Cupcake Day is a fun and impactful way for people to come together and make a real difference for animals in their community.”

Participants can register at cupcakeday.ca to set up a personal fundraising page, gather baking inspiration, and start planning their celebration. Whether you’re hosting a neighbourhood bake sale, a fun gathering with friends, or sharing treats at work, Cupcake Day is as flexible as it is fun.

For more information, or to register, visit cupcakeday.ca and bake a difference for animals, one cupcake at a time.

MEDIA CONTACT

Media Relations

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

905-898-7122 x 375

[email protected]

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

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

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

The Ontario SPCA 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.

Cat overpopulation is an issue across Ontario that has resulted in a staggering number of community cats. During the freezing winter months, these cats can be left vulnerable and susceptible to frostbite. While these cats are typically adept at surviving outdoors, the harsh winter months can make it very difficult for them to find food, water and shelter.

To support our furry community friends, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has feral cat support programs to assist feral cat caretakers in managing their colonies. One of the crucial ways we do this is by making cat shelters available each winter.

Keep reading to learn more about our community cat services, and tips for building a cat shelter.

To assist feral cat caretakers in managing feral cat colonies, the Ontario SPCA has developed three innovative programs:

Feral Cat Trap Depot Program where the Society loans cat traps to feral cat caretakers at no charge, in an effort to trap, neuter, vaccinate and return feral cats to their managed colony and stabilize their population.
Free Feral Food Bank providing significant support of food to colony caretakers. Without the participation of the Ontario SPCA, the dedicated feral cat colony caretakers use their own personal funds to provide food for these cats that have been abandoned by society.
Feral Cat Shelters – a limited quantity are made each fall by volunteers (or can be affordably made by anyone following the instructions below) for caretakers to provide a safe, warm place for their colonies during our cold, harsh winters.

Shelters are used to give feral cats a safe, warm place during the winter. If you have feral cats in your community, you may want to consider making them a shelter.

Supplies:

Plastic tote (68L)
¾ inch Durofoam sheet (4ft x 8ft)
Duct tape
Gorilla tape
Measuring tape
Exacto knife
Sharpie pen
Jigsaw/circular saw
6” diameter black tubing

For detailed written instructions on building your own feral cat shelter see our DIY – Step by Step: How to Build a Feral Cat Shelter or watch the video below!

Pick up a shelter today

Some Ontario SPCA animal centre locations are selling feral cat shelters this year for $20 each. Limited quantities are available. Call your local animal centre to check availability.

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. Please consider donating today.

Three-year-old Yorkie, Dax, was enjoying the good life when a run-in with mange led to a series of unexpected twists and turns.

When Dax began to suffer, his family spent months trying to determine the source of his discomfort. Eventually, a veterinarian was able to determine that Dax was suffering from sarcoptic mange.

Sarcoptic mange is caused by a parasitic mite that burrows into the skin. Sarcoptic mange is also highly contagious to other animals, and to people as well. It is contracted through direct contact with an infected animal or person, or through environments that have been contaminated (areas like dog parks, kennels, high traffic areas, etc.)

The diagnosis proved to be too difficult for Dax’s family to manage, and they made the decision to re-home him to the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society for treatment.

“Treatment starts working very quickly, so within days Dax was already feeling much less itchy and more comfortable,” says Jocelyn Rutgers, a Registered Veterinary Technician with the Ontario SPCA Midland & District Animal Centre. “His hair began to grow back, and he showed us his true, sweet, personality.”

With a fresh coat and a fresh outlook to match, it wasn’t long before Dax found his forever home.

“Dax has settled into his new home very well,” says Jocelyn. “He has a family who loves him dearly, and even a cat friend who he is learning not to chase.”

For anyone concerned their pet may have mange, Jocelyn recommends bringing them to a veterinarian for diagnosis. A skin scraping is performed and viewed under a microscope to look for the parasitic mites that cause sarcoptic mange, she says. Diagnosis can sometimes be made by a veterinarian based on clinical signs.

Mange can be prevented and treated in animals by keeping your pet on an appropriate flea/tick preventative year-round. Speak with your vet to determine which product is right for your pet. For humans, prevention includes keeping a clean home, disinfecting regularly, and washing bedding regularly.

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

Cornwall, ON (Jan. 30, 2025) – The Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre would like to officially welcome Candice Gordon as the new manager of the Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre in Cornwall.

Candice takes the reins from long-time manager Carol Link, who was with the Ontario SPCA family for 27 years before retiring last year. Candice joined the Ontario SPCA team two years ago as a Registered Veterinary Technician and has now stepped up to the role of manager to be able to help even more animals.

“I am honoured to be able to help these animals get the second chance they deserve, which is only possible thanks to generous donors, our hard-working team, amazing volunteers, and families who adopt and give these animals loving homes,” says Gordon.

Last year, the Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre adopted 448 animals, and Gordon hopes to place even more into loving homes this year.

“My goal is to share my passion and inspire others to support all the amazing initiatives the Ontario SPCA is working towards; together we are making a difference, one animal at a time,” she says.

When she’s not changing the lives of animals at the centre, Gordon is keeping busy on her family’s hobby farm with her husband, two teenage daughters and four horses.

To learn more about the Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre, and to view animals available for adoption, visit ontariospca.ca/sdg

Follow the centre on Facebook and Instagram for news, updates, animals available for adoption, and care tips.

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.

For the past three years, Lise Oikle has used her artistic talent to make a huge impact for animals in need in Cornwall.

Throughout the year, Lise takes one to two pet portrait commissions per month. She says she’s been painting for 13 years but had the idea three years ago to put her commissions into a calendar to support animals at the Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre.

“That’s how I came up with this idea, because I’ve always helped animals as much as I can,” says Lise.

Every year, Lise gives up her weekends for two months leading up to Christmas, selling her calendars at stores across Cornwall. Her first year she raised $985, then $5,100, and this year, $6,885.

She says each portrait takes about 80 hours to paint. Facing her own physical challenges, she says painting is like therapy for her.

“I’m in terrible pain, but when I’m painting, because I love it so much, it helps me forget my pain,” says Lise.

Lise says her favourite part about supporting the animal centre is knowing she is part of giving these animals a second chance.

“When I see some of these pets that end up at the Ontario SPCA, and then I hear how they got adopted and that they went to a good family – oh, that’s so nice to hear!” says Lise.

Arianne Kirkey, Community Outreach Coordinator at the Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre, says she and the rest of the team are inspired by Lise’s incredible dedication to animals.

“Lise is a true animal lover. I have never met anyone as passionate about saving animals and promoting good homes and adoption for animals,” says Arianne.

As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA on the generosity of supporters like Lise to provide care and shelter to animals in need.

“Lise’s donation and impact at the centre are immeasurable,” says Arianne.

Lise says she hopes to continue the fundraiser this year, but that she’ll need support to help her physically with the long weekends selling her calendars. She says she also hopes to visit senior homes with her calendars.

“If I could get some help, just think how much more we could help these animals,” says Lise.

Learn more about how you can support your local animal centre here.

You can also be a hero for animals that need it most with the Ontario SPCA a’s DIY fundraising platform Humane Hero. To learn more or to register your fundraiser, visit ontariospca.ca/humanehero.

Providing mental stimulation outside of their enclosure can be very beneficial for your small animal’s well-being. It can also be a fun new way to interact with your small animal. Find some great tips and ideas below.

Safety first

When giving a small animal a physical enrichment opportunity outside its enclosure, it is important to remember to:

Have proper supervision
Have food and water made available
Ensure the room or exercise pen is secure to avoid escapes
Ensure that the area is safe. Move objects that can be chewed or ingested.
Stay away from young children, predators, other animals
Use a non-slip surface
Provide a hiding place for the animal to retreat (e.g. igloo, box)

Toys

Toys are a great enrichment option. Small animals enjoy items such as balls, chewing blocks, paper bags, and crumbled newspapers. They also love things that they can carry, push, bury or hide. Place toys on the floor in an enclosure. Toys can also be safely hung from the cage. Ensure that the toys are large enough not to swallow.

Brushing/Grooming

Rabbits, in particular, need to be brushed regularly to remove excess fur and to prevent matting. This activity provides human social interaction as well as enrichment.

Agility courses

Several species such as bunnies, rats, and guinea pigs enjoy agility. Agility offers both physical and mental stimulation and encourages bonding and social interaction for the participating individuals.

These tips provide a great start for small animal enrichment.

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

Midhurst/January 27, 2025 – The County of Simcoe and the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society have partnered to protect both unhoused people and their pets from harsh winter conditions. Through a generous donation from the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre, individuals experiencing homelessness can now bring their pets to the Barrie East warming centre. The donation includes essential supplies such as food, crates, dog jackets, and ongoing support throughout the winter season.

“This donation has the potential to save lives this winter for not only unhoused individuals but also the animals they love and care for by allowing people to come inside with their pets,” said County of Simcoe Warden Basil Clarke. “We recognize that pets are family members and often provide crucial emotional support and motivation for their owners. Thanks to this donation, we can now make the Barrie East warming centre pet friendly.”

“Our pets are part of our families, and no one should have to choose between seeking shelter and staying with their beloved companion,” says Shannon Laflamme, Community Outreach Coordinator with the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre. “This partnership ensures that both unhoused individuals and their pets can stay safe and warm during the harsh winter months.”

About the Barrie East Warming Centre

The Barrie East Warming Centre welcomes up to 20 individuals at a time when temperatures dip below -10°C. This temperature-activated warming centre is now pet-friendly, and operates up to seven nights per week, 24 hours per day.

Visitors can access comprehensive support services, including assistance with finding shelter, housing, healthcare, and other essential resources. These services are part of a broader initiative to connect individuals with social and wellness-related assistance and help the access various housing support options.

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

Additional support and information is just a phone call away:

Call 211 (24/7) or visit 211ontario.ca for information on other community services and programs for people who are experiencing homelessness, living on a low income, living alone, or coping with life changes. Services are available in over 150 languages.
Call 911 (24/7) if you’re concerned about someone experiencing homelessness or sleeping outdoors who may be at risk of frostbite or hypothermia.
Call 988 (24/7) if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis.

People across Canada can call and text 9-8-8, a new three-digit service, for help when they need it most. The service offers trauma-informed and culturally affirming support to anyone who is thinking of suicide, or who is worried about someone they know. While the focus of 9-8-8 is on suicide prevention, no one who reaches out to the service will be turned away. Whoever you are, wherever you are located in Canada, by calling or texting 9-8-8 you can connect with a trained responder who’s ready to listen without judgement.

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

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]

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Orillia, ON (Jan. 27, 2025) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society would like to officially welcome Janna Handiak as the new manager of the Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre.

“I am so excited to work for the Ontario SPCA because helping animals find love, safety and happiness is more than a job – it’s a mission straight from the heart,” says Handiak.

Handiak takes the reins from long-time manager Carol Beard, who was with the Ontario SPCA family for over 40 years before retiring last year.

Handiak recently moved back to the area after 12 years in Ottawa, where she and her husband operated their own businesses. She is a proud mom and also shares her life with her dog Nixon and guinea pig Cocoa. When she’s not changing the lives of animals in need, Handiak is an avid traveller and advanced scuba diver, always seeking new adventures.

Handiak started the new year off on a paws-itive note, as she and her team found loving homes for 24 animals during the Ontario SPCA’s iAdopt for the Holdiays campaign, which took place from Dec. 1-24. The Orillia Animal Centre ended the year with 496 adoptions in 2024.

“My goal for the Orillia Animal Centre is to ensure it is a haven where every animal is safe and loved while we work to connect them with the perfect forever home,” says Handiak.

To learn more about the Orillia Animal Centre, and to view animals available for adoption, visit ontariospca.ca/orillia

Media Contact

Natalie Harris

Community Outreach Coordinator,

Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre

705-816-5576

[email protected]

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

The Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg. The Anishinaabeg include the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Pottawatomi nations, collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy.