Get ready to sprinkle kindness and whip up some joy – Cupcake Day is returning in 2026, and we need animal lovers and baking champs like you to help make it a success! 

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a cupcake connoisseur, your participation helps provide love, shelter, and second chances to animals in need across Ontario. 

Here’s how to get involved – it’s easy as cake: 

  • Register for free at cupcakeday.ca and choose your local Ontario SPCA animal centre to support. 
  • Personalize your fundraising page with your photo and your reason for supporting animals – share your “why”! 
  • Ask your friends, family, and coworkers to donate to your cause – every dollar makes a difference. 
  • Show your appreciation with a homemade cupcake (or two). Who can resist a sweet thank-you? 

The official Cupcake Day is Monday, February 23, 2026, but you can host your cupcake event or collect donations any time in January or February. 

Cupcake Day is more than frosting and sprinkles – it’s about changing lives. The funds you raise help the Ontario SPCA continue its vital work caring for animals across the province. 

So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and join us in baking a difference. 
Register now at cupcakeday.ca and help animals get the second chance they deserve. 

By Charmaine Brett, President & CEO, Ontario SPCA & Humane Society 

As 2026 begins, many Ontarians are still making difficult household decisions shaped by rising
costs. For some families, one of the hardest choices has involved a beloved pet.

Last year, one evening at one of our animal centres, a U-Haul truck pulled into the parking lot.
Sitting calmly in the front seat was a German Shepherd, upright and relaxed beside the driver.
Moments later, staff came outside with leashes, preparing to bring not one, but two dogs inside.

Their names were Rogue, a German Shepherd, and Marley, a Boxer.

The couple told staff they had found the dogs as strays. But the way Rogue had ridden comfortably in the front seat suggested something else. When our centre manager gently explained that sharing any information about the dogs’ owners could help them move more quickly into adoption, the truth came out.

With tears in their eyes, the couple admitted they were Rogue and Marley’s family.
They were being forced to move after they could no longer afford their rent. They couldn’t find
housing that allowed pets, and rising costs for food and veterinary care made keeping two large
dogs impossible. Despite loving them deeply, they believed surrendering Rogue and Marley was the only way their dogs might have a stable future.

They couldn’t even afford the surrender fees.

This is what the cost-of-living crisis looks like when it reaches a family’s front door.

Pets are family. They offer companionship, routine, and comfort, especially during times of stress. But when the cost of caring for an animal rises faster than wages or social supports, families are pushed into heartbreaking decisions.

Across Ontario, we are seeing this play out every day.

In 2025, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society partnered with 57 community food banks across the province. Together, these food banks serve nearly 40,000 people each month. National data suggests that more than half of food bank users have pets.

Through these partnerships, more than 350,000 pounds of pet food were distributed last year,
enough for over 920,000 meals. Each bag of food represents a family trying to hold on.
At the same time, the cost of pet care has reset at a much higher level. Pet food prices in Canada are roughly 23 percent higher than they were before the pandemic. Veterinary care has followed a similar path, with routine services now costing 20 to 25 percent more than they did just a few years ago. While inflation has slowed, these prices have not come back down. This is the new baseline.

For families already struggling with rent, groceries, and utilities, there is no room left to absorb these increases.

The result is visible in shelters. Owner surrenders rose by more than 18 percent last year alone.
These are not cases of neglect or lack of love. They are often the result of housing instability, job loss, illness, or the simple math of a household budget that no longer adds up.

German Shepherds like Rogue are especially vulnerable in these situations. They form deep bonds with their families and can struggle with the stress of shelter life. Boxers like Marley, while often more resilient, are high-energy dogs who can quickly deteriorate without stability. Fortunately, both found loving new homes. Many are not so lucky.

This is why prevention matters.

Helping families access pet food and affordable preventive veterinary care is not just
compassionate. It works. When families receive support early, pets stay in their homes. Shelters remain less crowded. Emergency veterinary costs decrease. Communities are stronger.
This is also where solutions must take shape.

At the Ontario SPCA, we are working to be part of the solution by expanding access to affordable, community-based pet care across the province. In 2025, we operated public-facing veterinary clinics in Barrie, York, and Sudbury, providing preventive services such as spay and neuter, vaccinations, and basic wellness care to families who might otherwise go without. In 2026, we are expanding this model to new clinic locations in Thunder Bay and Durham, bringing care closer to communities where access and affordability remain significant barriers.

In several locations, we are also introducing dental services, recognizing that untreated dental
disease is one of the most common and painful conditions affecting pets, and one that often
becomes unaffordable when left unaddressed. Alongside our clinics, we are expanding mobile and community-based veterinary services, strengthening pet food partnerships with local food banks, and investing in community supports designed to help families before they reach a breaking point.

These efforts are about filling gaps, reducing pressure on shelters and emergency services, and
keeping pets where they belong, at home with the people who love them.

Pet affordability is no longer a niche concern. It is a cost-of-living issue that touches housing,
health, and community stability.

As we move further into 2026, keeping pets and people together will require sustained
commitment. Animal welfare organizations cannot do this work alone. Food banks, veterinarians, donors, policymakers, and industry all have a role to play.

No one should have to choose between feeding their family and feeding a beloved companion. No one should have to give up a pet because life became too expensive.

Keeping pets with the people who love them is not only the humane thing to do. It is practical,
preventative, and essential to the well-being of our communities.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (Jan. 7, 2026) – Get ready to whisk up some kindness – Cupcake Day for the Ontario SPCA is back! This sweet annual tradition turns flour and frosting into vital support for animals, helping provide shelter, medical care, and brighter futures.

Cupcake Day officially takes place on Monday, Feb. 23, but supporters are encouraged to start the fun early. Participants can host a cupcake party, bake sale, or treat-themed gathering any time in January or February to help “raise dough” for animals at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. A registered charity that is 100 per cent donor funded, the Ontario SPCA relies on the generosity of donors to provide urgent care, shelter, and second chances to animals. 

“Every year, Cupcake Day gives animal lovers a delicious way to make a difference,” says Stephanie Miller, Vice President of Development at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “It’s heart-warming to watch the community rise to the occasion. We love seeing families, workplaces, and classrooms join in the fun.”

Register at cupcakeday.ca to set up a personal fundraising page, get baking inspiration, and start planning your sweetest celebration yet. From cozy kitchen gatherings to office treat tables and community bake sales, Cupcake Day can be as simple or as creative as you’d like.

For more information, or to register, visit cupcakeday.ca

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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.

As the winter months settle in, it’s more important than ever to consider the safety of your animals in your emergency response plan. Snowstorms, power outages, and freezing temperatures can disrupt daily routines and put everyone at risk – our furry companions included. By creating a plan, you can ensure their safety, no matter what winter throws your way.  

Here are some practical tips to get you started:  

Create an emergency kit for your furry friends 

Just as you’d prepare a kit for your family, put together essentials for your animals. Include food, water, any medications they may need, a leash or carrier, blankets, and a copy of their medical records. Don’t forget comfort items, like a favourite toy, to help reduce stress. Visit our blog “Emergency Preparedness” for a comprehensive list of items to consider when creating an animal emergency kit. 

Designate a safe space 

Identify a warm, safe area in your home where your pet can stay during a storm or other emergencies. You should also research animal-friendly shelters or hotels in nearby areas if you must evacuate.   

Stay informed 

Keep up to date with weather alerts and community emergency plans. Having a clear understanding of potential threats can help you act quickly to protect your family and animals.  

Keep identification updated 

Ensure you have up-to-date identification, such as a collar with tags and a registered microchip. In the unfortunate event that you are separated during an emergency, proper identification can make all the difference in reuniting you with your furry friend.   

By including your animal in your emergency response plan, you ensure their safety and well-being. Remember, preparation saves lives. As we brace for winter, take a moment to review your emergency plan – your pets will thank you for it!   

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. Help us continue to educate about animal wellness and pet safety by donating today. 

The arrival of the new puppy is an important event for you, for your family and for your new puppy, as well. So how can you make it a success?

Watch this video with Royal Canin Canada for some tips to gear up for your new puppy!

Do you struggle with trimming your cat’s nails regularly? Do you worry about causing stress or fear in your cat during nail trims? Today we’re sharing 8 tips to make your next nail trim easy and fear free. 

Trimming your cat’s claws can be intimidating for both you and your cat. But giving your cat a pawdicure doesn’t need to be a difficult experience, and today we’re going to share some helpful tips. 

Why do you need to trim cat’s nails? 

Your cat’s nails don’t wear down naturally, so to groom, they’ll scratch textured surfaces, like your furniture. Regularly clipping your cat’s nails helps to prevent unwanted behaviour. This will also minimize the risk of your cat’s nails snagging or getting torn on anything. 

Of course, the younger your cat is when you start trimming their claws, the easier it will be to get them accustomed to it.  But that doesn’t mean it’s too late to teach them if they are no longer a kitten! 

Tips for trimming your cat’s nails 

If your cat is cooperative, you may be able to trim their nails on your lap. You can choose a time when your cat is comfortable and sitting with you. Gently squeeze the paw from the top to extend the nails and then ensure you are cutting the tip of the nail and avoiding the quick (the pink part of the nail). Cat nail clippers work best. 

Please note, it might take a little while for your cat to adjust, and that is alright. You don’t want to create a negative experience for your cat and make them fear sitting on your lap. 

Getting your cat comfortable 

If your cat doesn’t respond well to having their nails clipped, you can start by gently squeezing their paws for several days until they are comfortable with that touch. You can also give them time to get used to the clippers by having them in the same room and letting your cat sniff them before you ever clip their nails. 

Once your cat is comfortable with having their paws squeezed, begin by cutting their nails slowly. Try to clip one nail at a time with breaks in between so you don’t overwhelm them. Give your cat lots of praise when they let you trim one of their nails. Treats are also a great option to have handy for positive reinforcement. 

If your cat isn’t comfortable doing this on your lap, you could also try wrapping them in a blanket to keep them from wiggling or cover their head so they can’t see what you are doing. 

As your cat gets used to the sound and feel of nail clippers, you can work up to trimming more than one nail per session.  When you are finished clipping their nails, cuddle with your cat a little bit longer to leave the experience on a positive note. 

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

For over 150 years, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has been providing care, comfort, and compassion to animals in need in communities across Ontario.    

As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, we depend on our generous supporters to provide programs and services to help animals in need. Today we are highlighting the top ways you can get involved to make a difference in the lives of animals in your community.     

Donate    

Become an animal champion by donating today! Choose a one-time gift, a monthly gift, or a gift in honour or memory of a special person or furry friend. Your support will provide urgent care and shelter, and help animals find loving homes.  

Become a legacy donor    

When you think about your life’s purpose, the difference you’ve made, and how you can leave the world a better place, do you think about your love for animals? If so, a gift in your will to the Ontario SPCA might be part of your legacy. When you remember the Ontario SPCA with a gift in your will, you can continue to change the lives of animals long after you’re gone.   

Adopt    

Have you been pondering the idea of welcoming an animal into your life? Finding loving homes for animals is at the heart of the Ontario SPCA’s work and we have many furry friends who are waiting for a loving family!   

Volunteer    

From fostering animals to helping with fundraising events, the Ontario SPCA is always looking for passionate volunteers to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable animals across Ontario.   

Interested in learning more about the various volunteering opportunities and how to apply?

Join our team as an employee    

Join the Ontario SPCA team and make a difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them! We have a wide variety of employment opportunities across the province of Ontario.   

Host a fundraising event   

Community events are critical to raise funds to support animals across the province. From barbecues to garage sales, golf tournaments to paint nights, or donating proceeds from goods or services, your support makes a difference in the lives of animals in your community!   

With the Ontario SPCA’s new Humane Hero fundraising platform, you can create your own fundraiser in support of the community of your choice. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, paying tribute to a beloved pet, or you just love animals, a Humane Hero fundraiser has a big impact.    

Shop Paws & Give  

Every Paws & Give™ purchase gives back to animals in need. Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, wedding, anniversary, or just because you want to show someone you care, these life-saving gifts keep on giving.  

Proceeds of this program go directly to animals being cared for by the Ontario SPCA.   

Share our social media posts    

With the click of a button, you can help adoptable animals find their forever homes, raise much-needed funds for an animal in critical condition, bring awareness to important advocacy campaigns, and much more!    

Follow the Ontario SPCA on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn to share our social media posts with your friends and family!    

Sign up for Newshound  

Would you like to stay updated on news and events related to the Ontario SPCA, including adoptable animals and advocacy issues?     

Sign up for Newshound today and never miss a beat!   

Your support is vital to create a brighter future for animals. It helps us provide urgently needed care and shelter for thousands of vulnerable animals each year. Furthermore, it allows us to provide important community support services, such as spay/neuter and animal wellness services, animal transfers, pet food distribution, humane education, animal advocacy and more.   

If you are interested in learning about even more ways to get involved to help change an animal’s life, please visit ontariospca.ca/how-to-help/.  

New Year’s Eve is an exciting time of celebrating with friends and family, but we have to remember our furry friends and their needs as we ring in the new year. As we get ready for the countdown on New Year’s Eve, here are some pet safety tips to keep in mind.  

How to enjoy New Year’s Eve with your furry friends  

Proximity: Don’t be afraid to have your pet around for the festivities! What you need to be aware of is whether the noise or excitement is overwhelming them. Consider putting your pet in another room while people arrive and then introducing them gradually to your guests.  

Safe space: While having your pets around might be good for some, other pets might need space. Create a safe zone where your pet can retreat if the excitement gets too much for them. Make sure to keep fresh water in the safe space and some toys to keep them occupied.  

Treats: You’ll probably have special treats and delicacies around for your guests – don’t leave your pet out! Put aside some of their favourite treats to give them throughout the night. If you have extra time, it could also be fun to make your pet some homemade treats! Remember to keep any snacks for your human guests out of reach of your pet.   

Attention: Don’t let your pet lose out because of the excitement of the day! Your dog will still need their daily walk or playtime, as usual. If they can’t wear out some energy, your pet might get over-excited around your guests. Make it a fun outing and take all your guests on the walk with you!  

Alcohol: If there’s going to be alcohol at your party, it’s important to keep your pets away from it. Alcohol can be very toxic for pets! The last thing you want is a trip to the emergency vet to ring in the new year.  

Countdown rules: When you’re counting down at midnight, keep your pets away from confetti, balloons and any other decorations that could be hazardous. Strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat’s intestines, perhaps even requiring surgery. Noisy poppers can also terrify pets. As midnight approaches, you may want to consider securing your pets in a safe room of the house that has been set up for their comfort.   

If fireworks are going to be taking place in your area, read our blog for tips on how to reduce anxiety for your pets.   

Enjoy the fun and keep your pets safe and happy at the same time! From everyone at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, we wish you a safe and happy New Year! 

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

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (Dec. 29, 2025) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is celebrating a heartwarming milestone this holiday season after successfully meeting its Home for the Holidays adoption campaign goal, helping more than 500 animals find loving homes across the province.

The adoption campaign, which took place Dec. 1-24, focused on finding families for animals of all ages, including senior pets and long-term residents who had been waiting months for their chance at a fresh start. Thanks to the compassion of adopters across Ontario, 688 animals are now spending the holidays where they belong – safe, loved and at home.

“Reaching this goal is an incredible reminder of what’s possible when people come together to help animals,” says Sonya Reichel, Vice President of Operations, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Every adoption represents a life changed – not just for the animal, but for the family who opened their heart and home.”

Even as we celebrate this milestone, many animals are still waiting for someone to open their heart and home. Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to meet animals hoping to start the new year with a family.

For those unable to adopt, a year-end donation is a meaningful way to help provide care and shelter to animals still waiting for their own happy story. As a registered charity that is 100 per cent donor funded, the Ontario SPCA relies on the generosity of animal lovers to continue making these second chances possible.

To donate, 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 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.

While cars pose risks to animals year-round, extra precautions should be taken during the cold, dark winter months. From the dangers of being hit on the road to the hazards of seeking shelter in the wrong places, cats and wildlife are often at risk around cars.  

Fortunately, there are several ways we can help protect them, both when driving and when your car is parked. 

Check for cats before starting your car 

In colder weather, cats may find warmth and shelter under the hoods of parked cars. They curl up in these cozy spots to escape the chill, but it can be dangerous when the car is started. To ensure you don’t accidentally harm a hidden feline, take a few simple precautions: 

  • Tap the hood before you start the engine. The sound may scare the cat away if there’s one hiding there. 
  • Honking your horn may also alert any animals in the vicinity, including a cat under the car. 
  • Check under your car by looking carefully around the wheels and undercarriage, especially if it’s been parked for a while. 

Taking these few extra moments can save a life—both for cats and for any other small animals that might take shelter in similar spots. 

Drive slowly and carefully, especially at dawn and dusk 

Animals are most active during twilight hours—at dawn and dusk—when visibility is low, and they are more likely to dart across the road. Slow down during these times, especially in areas where wildlife may be active. Keep an eye out for creatures like squirrels, foxes, racoons, or deer that might suddenly cross your path. 

  • Be alert even if you don’t see anything right away. Animals can emerge unexpectedly.  
  • Use extra caution in rural or wooded areas where wildlife is more likely to be present. 
  • Look out for wildlife road signs as many areas with high wildlife traffic will post signs to alert drivers to the presence of animals crossing.  
  • Watch for eyeshine at night. Many types of animals have eyes that reflect headlights, making them easier to spot.  
  • Reduce speed during poor weather conditions as this can cause decreased visibility and make it harder to brake effectively. By staying vigilant, you can greatly lower the risk of a collision with an animal. 

Both cats and wildlife face a variety of risks when it comes to cars—whether it’s getting hit on the road or seeking shelter in dangerous places.  We have a responsibility to minimize these risks by staying alert, driving cautiously, and taking steps to protect animals. By doing so, we can all do our part to create a safer world for our furry friends. 

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. 

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is excited to give our supporters a chance to get to know Charmaine Brett in her role as our new President and CEO. Following the retirement of Doug Brooks, who led the organization with compassion and vision over the past four years, Charmaine has stepped into her new role with enthusiasm, experience, and a deep commitment to animal welfare. 

Over 20 years of international humanitarian and development experience 

A respected global leader in animal welfare and humanitarian response, Charmaine brings over 20 years of experience leading organizations, including Veterinarians Without Borders, Doctors Without Borders, Habitat for Humanity, and Action Against Hunger. 

Most recently, as Executive Director of Veterinarians Without Borders North America, Charmaine expanded the organization’s reach to over 13 countries and strengthened global efforts to improve the health of animals, people, and the environment. She has also led emergency operations in Ukraine, Turkey, and wildfire-affected regions across Canada, earning recognition for her calm, compassionate leadership during crises. 

“Those years shaped so much of who I am,” says Charmaine. “It showed me how deeply connected people, animals, and the environment truly are.” 

In Canada, Charmaine has championed access to veterinary care in remote and underserved communities, working closely with Indigenous partners in the North to introduce sustainable, community-based care models. 

With such a wealth of experience in global humanitarian and development organizations, Charmaine is the perfect fit for the Ontario SPCA. 

A glimpse beyond the office 

Outside of her professional roles, Charmaine is an avid runner who also loves yoga and travel. Having lived abroad for over two decades, primarily across Africa and Asia, she credits these experiences for shaping her worldview. 

Charmaine is also a mother of two wonderful children and loves spending time outdoors with her family. 

“Camping, exploring, and finding new ways to enjoy nature are some of our favourite things to do,” she says. 

A vision rooted in compassion and care 

Throughout Charmaine’s international career, she often found herself supporting emergency response efforts including major earthquakes, wildfires and periods of civil unrest where animals were caught in the middle of crisis. 

“Helping keep them safe became an incredibly meaningful part of my work,” she says. “I also witnessed firsthand the challenges of dog population management and the lack of access to veterinary care in many communities.”  

Those experiences left a lasting impact on her and ultimately drew her to the Ontario SPCA. 

“What motivated me to join the Ontario SPCA is the belief that everyone deserves the chance to have a furry companion in their life and that access to care should never be a barrier,” says Charmaine. “I am deeply committed to ensuring animals receive the support they need to be healthy and happy, and to helping keep pets and people together. This is the heart of our work, and I am grateful every day to be part of it.” 

Join us  

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society offers a wide range of rewarding career opportunities dedicated to supporting animal well-being across Ontario. If you’re passionate about making a difference for animals in need, visit ontariospca.ca/employment to learn more. 

A smiling woman in a red Veterinarians Without Borders shirt kneeling and petting a brown dog outdoors on a brick walkway.

The holidays truly are a time for compassion, connection and fresh starts, and thanks to our incredible supporters, this season was one to remember for animals in need across Ontario. 

During our Home for the Holidays adoption campaign, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society set out a goal to help 500 animals find loving homes in time for the holidays. We’re thrilled to share that not only did we reach this goal, but we exceeded it, with 688 animals adopted.    

From playful puppies and curious kittens to senior companions and long-term residents who had been patiently waiting, animals of all ages and personalities found the families they’d been dreaming of. Each adoption represents a life changed and a future filled with comfort, care and love. 

Thank you for making it possible 

The success of this campaign is about more than numbers; it’s about families opening their hearts and homes, and animals starting their next chapter surrounded by warmth and love. Many adopters are able to spend extra time at home over the holidays, creating those important early bonding moments that help animals settle into their new routines. 

To help set families up for success, animals adopted from the Ontario SPCA go home spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and with food from Royal Canin to support a smooth transition. 

This incredible outcome wouldn’t have been possible without our compassionate community. From adopters and foster families to donors, volunteers and staff, your support helped ensure animals across Ontario received the care and love they deserve. 

Whether you donated, shopped our Paws & Give™ holiday catalogue, shared our campaign, or welcomed a new furry family member into your home, you played a role in helping animals in need find their Home for the Holidays. 

The joy doesn’t end here 

While the holidays may be coming to a close, animals continue to arrive at our animal centres every day, each one hoping for a second chance. If you’re thinking about adopting, fostering, or supporting our work, visit our website to learn more. 

Together, you helped make this holiday season brighter than ever for animals across Ontario. Thank you for being part of their journey home.