Page 25 – Ontario SPCA

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

Food

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

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

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

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

Creating a healthy environment

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

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

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

Behaviour and handling

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

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

Exercise & toys

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

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

Daily care

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

Signs of illness

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

Why rats make great companions

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

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

For more animal care tips, visit our blog.

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

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

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

A rough start

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

An unyielding spirit

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

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

Why every act of compassion matters

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

As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need like Tuna. Please consider donating today.

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

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

Initial things to consider

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

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

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

Potential drawbacks to using a boarding kennel include the:

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

How do I find a good kennel?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be monitored by staff trained to spot health problems.

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

How do I find a good kennel?

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

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

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

What should I look for when I visit?

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

Does the facility look and smell clean?

Is there sufficient ventilation and light?

Is a comfortable temperature maintained?

Does the staff seem knowledgeable and caring?

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

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

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

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

Are cats housed away from dogs?

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

How often are pets fed?

Can pet parents bring a pet’s special food?

Can pet parents bring a pet’s special bedding?

What veterinary services are available?

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

How are rates calculated?

What is the animal-to-staff ratio?

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

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

How do I prepare my pet?

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Twix’s story began at the Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre, where this one-year-old Mastiff arrived in a heartbreaking state, suffering from severe malnutrition. His emaciated body revealed his struggle for survival, weighing a mere 15 kilograms when he should have been around 25. His body condition was rated at just one out of five, indicating he was almost entirely skin and bones, which underscored his critical state. The staff also discovered open wounds on his legs and ears, emphasizing the urgent need for medical care. .

A patient recovery

To aid in his recovery, his animal care team took immediate action, putting Twix under close medical supervision and placing him on a carefully managed refeeding program. This was essential to avoid refeeding syndrome—a serious condition that can arise when feeding is rushed after a period of starvation. Slowly easing food into his diet allowed his body to adapt, and over the following weeks, Twix began to show signs of recovery. His caregivers worked not only on restoring his physical health, but also on helping him feel safe and secure. Bit by bit, he regained his strength, and each small increase in weight and energy marked a significant victory in his path to wellness.

A fresh start

As Twix transformed, he was lovingly renamed Bo, symbolizing his fresh start. His personality blossomed as he became comfortable in his new environment. Affectionate and sweet, Bo was eager to make friends, quickly warming up to new people, especially with the help of treats. Though he initially displayed caution by barking at strangers, that behaviour faded as he learned to trust. His protective nature emerged, as he formed strong bonds with his adoptive family, particularly his feline sisters, Bird and Bee, whom he cherishes.

A happy tail ending

Bo has since become a source of joy for his family, even accompanying his pet parent, Ellyssa, at work a few times a week. Together, they are working on leash manners with the guidance of trainers, and despite his energetic disposition, Bo is making great strides. His adventures include meeting new dogs and expanding his circle of friends with each outing.

Today, Bo’s journey from despair to delight exemplifies the power of love, care, and dedication. Every wag of his tail reminds us of how far he has come and the bright future that lies ahead for him and his new family.

The Pride Parade in Toronto is a tradition celebrating the LGBTQ2S+ community during Pride Month. If you’re thinking about donning a costume with your furry friend to celebrate, here’s what you need to know.

Prepare to party

Ensure your animal companion is comfortable in a costume and enjoys wearing one. Safety and comfort are the top concerns. Your animals may not want to get dressed up and that’s okay! You can still have fun in a costume of your own.

With a little patience and practice, many animals will wear a costume comfortably. Ensure the costume experience will be a positive one by taking your time and making sure your four-legged friend is comfortable dressing up.

Have a dress rehearsal

A week or a few days before the event, bring out the costume, and let your animal smell and explore it. Reward them with a treat. Then try wrapping a towel, cape-style around your critter and see how they do. Reward them and keep your tone light and relaxed.

Listen to their feedback

Animals often don’t feel comfortable with items on their head, or around their neck. Constant shaking, scratching or rubbing to dislodge the item indicates your animal doesn’t like the idea. You may need to modify your costume ideas accordingly.

Avoid human hair dye products

Do not use human hair dyes on your animal. They are toxic to animals! Glitter is also something to avoid when creating a costume for your furry friend.

Safety and security for your animal should be your primary concern at all times. You don’t want your animal tripping, or ingesting pieces of the costume. If you plan on taking your dog for a walk with the costume on, you need to be sure their leash or harness can still be worn comfortably and securely.

If not, you may just want to share pictures or a video of your furry friend from the comfort of your home. Then, you can enjoy a lovely walk with your animal, without the constraints of a costume.

Parade Day

On parade day, get dressed up and have fun! Document the process of getting in costume, FaceTime a friend or take selfies with you and your costumed critter, as you watch the parade and celebrate Pride.

What better way to celebrate love than with your four-legged friends?

Thor and Odin’s journey could have ended before it truly began, but thanks to the compassion of caring adopters and the deep bond between these two guinea pigs, their tale took a remarkable turn.

When Thor and Odin arrived at the Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre, both guinea pigs weighed only a pound, had overgrown nails, and needed crucial dental work.

“Upon intake, we discovered their body condition was a concerning one out of five, which means they were severely underweight,” says Janna Handiak, Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre Manager. “Their overgrown teeth suggested a dental issue that hampered their ability to eat, and their droppings looked unusual — almost as if they were subsisting on wood chips.”

Acting promptly, the animal care team brought them to the veterinary clinic for examination. Following a critical care approach that involved hand feeding and regular weigh-ins. the team at the animal centre worked at bringing this pair of guinea pigs back to health.

“Miraculously, this bonded pair – who loved to snuggle – began to gain weight. Over time, they started devouring everything we provided,” says Janna. “To help them eat comfortably, they underwent dental work.”

Fortunately, their luck turned when a wonderful pair of adopters stepped up, and Thor and Odin were adopted together. Renamed Lucky and Connor, these little fur babies are now living their best lives, often exploring grassy areas with their adopter and indulging in their favorite treat: dandelions.

This heartwarming transformation showcases the importance of compassion and the bonds that can truly change lives.

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 like Odin and Thor. Please consider donating today.

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Just like people, cats and dogs can suffer from food allergies. While not as common as environmental allergies, food sensitivities can cause uncomfortable symptoms and impact your animal’s quality of life. Sometimes animals can have both environment and food allergies, and it can be hard to differentiate between the two. Knowing the signs and how to manage food allergies can help keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

Common food allergens

The most frequent food allergens for cats and dogs include:

Proteins: Beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, fish
Grains: Wheat, corn, soy (less common)
Other ingredients: Certain additives, artificial colours, or preservatives

It’s important to note that it’s often the protein source, not the grain, that triggers an allergic reaction.

Signs & symptoms

Food allergies can affect animals in a variety of ways. Here’s what to watch for:

Skin issues: Itching, redness, rashes, frequent scratching, ear infections, hair loss
Digestive upset: Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas
Behaviour changes: Discomfort, restlessness, over-grooming

If your furry friend is showing persistent symptoms, it’s time to talk to your veterinarian.

How food allergies are diagnosed

The gold standard for diagnosing food allergies is an elimination diet trial. This involves feeding a diet with a new protein—one they’ve never eaten before—for eight to 12 weeks. If symptoms improve and then return when the old food is reintroduced, a food allergy is confirmed. Serum allergy testing in also an option and is as reliable as the elimination diet trial.

Treatment and management

The best treatment is avoiding the allergen. Your veterinarian may recommend:

Veterinary-prescribed food tailored for sensitive pets
Homemade diets, carefully balanced under veterinary guidance

Additionally, supportive care—like medicated baths, supplements, or medications—may help manage symptoms during the transition.

Read the blog “Pet Allergies and How to Manage Them” for additional tips.

Food allergies can be frustrating for both animals and their people, but with patience and the right veterinary support, most animals can thrive on a new diet. If you suspect a food allergy, reach out to your veterinarian.

As temperatures rise, so does the risk for animals left in hot vehicles or outside without proper care. This summer, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is calling on all animal lovers to help protect our furry friends by taking the No Hot Pets pledge.

Take the pledge

By pledging your support, you’re not only raising awareness—you’re taking action. Share the No Hot Pets message on social media, talk to local businesses about becoming pet-friendly supporters, and encourage your municipality to pass bylaws that prevent animals from being left unattended in vehicles. Every voice counts, and your advocacy could save a life.

What to do

Even on mild days, the temperature inside a parked car can quickly climb to dangerous levels, putting pets at serious risk of heatstroke or death—even with windows cracked and the vehicle in the shade. Animals left outside without access to shade or fresh water are also vulnerable in the summer heat.

If you see an animal in distress, don’t wait—get help. Call the Ontario government’s Provincial Animal Welfare Services at 1-833-9ANIMAL or your local police. If it’s a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

No Excuses. No Hot Pets.

Visit nohotpets.ca to access free resources, care tips, and digital tools to help spread the word. While you’re there, don’t forget to enter the No Hot Pets contest before August 31 for your chance to win a YETI summer prize pack—because keeping pets cool should be a win for everyone.

This summer, be a voice for animals. Take the pledge. Share the message. Save a life.

Visit nohotpets.ca

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (June 20, 2025) – Summer fun is heating up, but let’s make sure our furry friends stay cool! The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is kicking off its annual No Hot Pets campaign and inviting you to be an advocate for animals by taking the No Hot Pets pledge at nohotpets.ca. By taking the pledge at nohotpets.ca, you’ll not only show your commitment to protecting animals, but you’ll also be entered for a chance to win a cool YETI summer prize pack.

Getting involved in the No Hot Pets campaign is easy! Here’s how you can keep tails wagging this summer:

Take the pledge at nohotpets.ca and encourage your friends to do the same.
Share the message on social media using fun, ready-to-go graphics and tips from the digital toolkit available at nohotpets.ca
Talk to local businesses about supporting No Hot Pets by displaying posters and spreading awareness. They can request a free poster for their front door.
Ask your town or city to help protect pets by passing bylaws that prevent animals from being left in hot vehicles.

The No Hot Pets website also has great resources to help you speak up for animals, plus handy hot weather pet care tips.

“It only takes a few minutes for the inside of a parked car to turn into an oven,” says Jennifer Bluhm, Vice President, Community Outreach Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Even if you crack the windows or park in the shade, it can be life threatening for your pet. If you can’t bring them with you when you get to your destination, leave them at home where they’re safe.”

If you see an animal in distress this summer, get help! Call the government’s Provincial Animal Welfare Services at 1-833-9ANIMAL, or your local police. If it’s a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

Together, we can make this summer safer for animals across Ontario.

Media Contact:

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

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.

With many parts of Canada affected by wildfires, it’s important to take extra precautions to protect your pets from the harmful effects of smoke. Just like people, animals are at risk of respiratory issues and other health concerns when air quality is poor.

Safety considerations

Limit outdoor time as much as possible. While bathroom breaks are necessary, avoid long walks or extended playtime outside. Check your local air quality advisories and keep pets indoors as much as possible whenever conditions are poor.

Protect your home environment by closing windows and doors to keep smoke out. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters if available and run your air conditioner in recirculation mode to prevent bringing in outdoor air. If you notice signs of smoke irritation in your pet—such as coughing, red or watery eyes, sneezing, lethargy, or trouble breathing, contact your veterinarian right away.

Certain animals are more vulnerable to smoke, including flat-faced breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats. Puppies, kittens, senior animals, and pets with pre-existing medical conditions are also at increased risk. Be especially cautious and consult your vet if you’re unsure how to best protect them.

Looking for ways to keep your pet active indoors? Visit our blog for indoor play ideas that can help your furry companion stay stimulated without going outside.

Be prepared

If you must evacuate, take your animals with you. Have a plan in place to evacuate your family, including your animals, as early as possible. Evacuating before conditions become severe helps keep everyone safer and reduces stress levels. Learn how to include your pet in your emergency plan.

Smoke from wildfires can be dangerous—but with the right steps, you can help keep your animals safe and healthy. Stay informed, be prepared, and don’t forget to check in on your furry friends.