Your pet’s “Gotcha Day” – the day they officially became part of your family – is a meaningful milestone worth celebrating. Whether you just welcomed a dog, cat or pocket pet into your home, this day marks the beginning of a lifelong bond. No matter how long they’ve been with you, here are some thoughtful ways to make your pet’s Gotcha Day extra special.
Treat them to a favourite snack
Celebrate with a special treat tailored to your pet’s dietary needs. This might be a gourmet wet food for your cat, a fresh veggie mix for a rabbit, or a favourite chew for a dog. Always stick to pet-safe ingredients and approved foods and enjoy watching them savour something they love. If you don’t know what your furry friend’s favourite snack is yet, this is the perfect opportunity to explore and find out!
Plan an activity they enjoy
Think about what makes your pet happiest. For some, that’s a long walk, play session, or outdoor exploration. For others, it may be a calm day filled with cuddles, enrichment toys, or quiet companionship. Design the celebration around their comfort level and personality.
Animals adopted from the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society undergo a behavioural assessment to help set them up for success in their new homes. Be sure to speak with an animal care attendant as they can provide valuable insight into your pet’s individual personality, preferences and needs.
Give a thoughtful gift
A new toy, cozy bed, scratching post, or enrichment puzzle makes a wonderful Gotcha Day gift. Choose something that supports your pet’s well-being and natural behaviours. Personalized items like name tags, bowls, or artwork can also be a sentimental way to mark the occasion.
Capture the memories
Take photos or videos to commemorate the day. If you have a photo from when you first brought your furry family member home, consider recreating it for a “then and now” comparison – and tag @ontariospca on social media so we can see! These memories become cherished reminders of your journey together.
Give back in their honour
One of the most heartfelt ways to celebrate your pet’s Gotcha Day is by giving back. Consider donating, buying supplies, volunteering, fostering, or sharing your adoption story to encourage others to adopt.
Ultimately, Gotcha Day isn’t about how big the celebration is; it’s about recognizing the love and joy your pet brings into your life. It’s a reminder that choosing each other was one of the best decisions you ever made.
Cupcake Day for the Ontario SPCA is all about helping animals in need, and we are calling on animal lovers in Ontario to dust off their aprons, pre-heat their ovens, and bake the world a batter place for animals in need across the province!
So, gather your ingredients, and let’s whip up some treats that will have tails wagging and cats purring!
Tailored treats
The beauty of homemade treats lies in their simplicity. You have control over the ingredients, allowing you to prioritize your pet’s health and flavour preferences. Opt for wholesome ingredients like flour, oats, peanut butter (without xylitol), and unsweetened applesauce. These basics provide a nutritious foundation for your treats.
Experiment with different flavours, such as adding shredded carrots, blueberries, or even a dash of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Consider consulting your veterinarian to ensure the chosen ingredients align with your dog’s health requirements.
Make baking fun for the whole family
Baking treats for your furry friend is a fun and rewarding process. Get the whole family involved –your canine companion might even enjoy watching the baking magic happen! Keep in mind that dogs and cats have a heightened sense of smell, so the aroma of fresh treats baking in the oven is sure to have them eagerly awaiting the final product.
Selecting shape and size
Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes that add an extra touch of excitement to your dog’s treats. Whether it’s bone-shaped, paw-printed, or heart-shaped, the visual appeal adds a delightful element to snack time. Be mindful of the treat size, ensuring it’s appropriate for your dog’s breed and size.
Storage and enjoyment
Once your homemade treats are ready, allow them to cool completely before serving. Store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Most importantly, treat time becomes a bonding experience between you and your pet, reinforcing your connection and showing them the love, they deserve. So, show the furry friends in your life, and those special animals in the lives of your donors, how much you appreciate them and bake a difference this Cupcake Day!
If your companion animal tends to gain a little extra weight during the winter season, this blog is for you! The best thing you can do is to make sure your animal is getting enough exercise and that they are not exceeding their daily caloric requirements. In other words, eating more than they need.
Here are some other helpful tips to help prevent your furry friend’s weight gain this winter.
Create an exercise plan
- This can include activities, games and exercises that can be done both indoors and outside.
- Aim for shorter, more frequent walks with your dog.
- On days when it is too cold for outdoor activities, enjoy indoor games like tug-of-war and fetch.
- Make it fun! The more excited you are, the more excited your furry friend will be to join you.
Read our blog for tips on exercising pets during winter months.
Reduce your furry friend’s treat intake
It can be tempting to treat your animal more frequently during the winter months, but this is not the healthiest choice since treats are usually higher in sugars and fats than regular dog or cat food.
By reducing the amount of treats your furry friend receives, you can help your animal maintain a healthy weight. The extra calories can add up! Remember that your companion animal appreciates a pat on the head or praise as much as the treats.
Understand what you’re feeding and how much to feed
If your furry friend tends to be less active during the winter months, talk to your veterinarian. Together, you can ensure your animal is consuming the proper type and amount of food and adjust their diet accordingly.
More tips to keep in mind
While enjoying the outdoors together, be mindful of your companion animal’s whereabouts and comfort. Watch for signs that they may be getting cold and keep them on a leash to help prevent them from getting lost, especially during extreme weather when visibility is low.
Be sure to clean and dry your furry friend’s feet once back inside to ensure there is no ice or salt stuck in their pads.
Get outside and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery with your companion animal!
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.
Einstein is the kind of cat who embodies resilience. While the odds may have been against him, this little trooper persevered.
A heartbreaking arrival
When Einstein arrived at our animal centre in Cornwall as a stray, he was in rough shape. Covered in fleas and suffering from severe anemia, he was hospitalized in critical condition and treated for hypothermia, dehydration, ear mites, and digestive issues. He also tested positive for panleukopenia.
“Despite being so incredibly weak and sick, he would still give everything he had to place his head in your hand for scratches, and he would purr,” recalls Candice Gordon, Manager of the Ontario SPCA Cornwall and Region Animal Centre, formerly the Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre.
A carefully guided recovery
Working closely with Einstein’s veterinarian, the caring team at our animal centre followed a careful recovery plan to help this sweet cat regain his strength. He required IV fluids, antibiotics, medication, and plenty of TLC. Slowly but surely, Einstein began to thrive.
Although his condition was initially worrisome, the team never doubted his determination. Once he started feeling better, Einstein’s personality shone through. Described as “the sweetest, friendliest boy,” he loves to cuddle and happily shares his thoughts with anyone who will listen. These endearing qualities are undoubtedly part of what caught the eye of Michel, his new guardian.
A bittersweet goodbye and a joyful new beginning
“The day Einstein was adopted was a mix of joy, disbelief and some happy tears. After pouring so much love, patience and hope into him and seeing how much he fought for this recovery himself made everything worth it,” says Gordon. “Our team had grown used to advocating for him every day, celebrating small wins, worrying during setbacks and believing in how he would end up in an amazing home. We were proud of him and grateful to the family who saw what we saw; it reminded us why we do this work. Every animal is worth the wait and every goodbye can also be a beautiful beginning.”
Help make second chances possible
Einstein’s journey is a powerful reminder that together, with care and compassion, we can change the lives of animals in need – even those who have the odds stacked against them.
“It truly took a village to save Einstein’s life,” Gordon reflects. “He wouldn’t be here today if a kind member of the public hadn’t found him when he was in critical condition and brought him to us for care. Because of this initial act of kindness, Einstein survived and will live a happy life moving forward.”
And if you’re wondering how this boy got his name, Einstein was given one of several science-themed monikers the week he arrived at the animal centre. His story brings to mind a quote from his namesake, Albert Einstein: “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.”
To help make second chances possible for animals like Einstein, please consider donating. 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. To change a life today, visit ontariospca.ca/donate
Wow, can you believe it’s 2026 already?! What possibilities could this new year hold? While you’re figuring that out, here are some pet parenting tips to consider for your first year with your beloved pet.
Proper introductions
Introducing a new animal into your home is a big adjustment for you and your furry friend, and you’ll want to ensure you get off on the right paw! Check out some tips for your first week home with your newly adopted pet.
If you already have an animal at home, you’ll want to ensure that they get along with your new furry family member. Learn more about cat-to-cat introductions and cat-to-dog instructions.
Schedule annual vaccinations now
It’s time for annual spring checkups; take a minute to call your vet and book the appointment. Schedule it (with reminders) in your calendar so you don’t forget.
Animals adopted from the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society are already spay/neutered, microchipped and as up to date on vaccinations as they can be in their time with us (it’s important to double check with your family veterinarian if they require any booster vaccines). Plus, we send them home with food from Royal Canin to help ensure a smooth transition.
Plan vacations ahead
If you know you are planning to take a trip during the spring or summer months, start looking for a reputable pet-sitter or kennel now and book early to secure your spot. Learn more about how to choose a pet sitter.
Alternatively, if you plan on bringing Fluffy with you, read up on some pet travel safety tips.
Consider pet insurance
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. Pet insurance can help cover those unforeseen veterinary bills and help your furry friends stay healthy.
Ontario SPCA & Humane Society Pet Insurance offered by Fetch is one option.
Choose the right diet
Consult your animal’s veterinarian for the right food choice for your pet’s specific dietary needs. Some companies, such as Royal Canin, offer subscription services so that you won’t have to worry about running out!
With these tips in mind, we hope you have a great start to your new year with your newly adopted pet!
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.
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
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 Facebook, Instagram, Twitter 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/.