Page 8 – Ontario SPCA

With the winter season upon us, it is important to remember that our furry friends can also get cold. If it’s too cold for you, then it’s too cold for your companion animal!

When the temperature drops below freezing, animals should not be left outside for extended periods. Cats, short-coated dogs and puppies are particularly vulnerable in cold temperatures. Senior animals, underweight animals or those battling underlying medical conditions can also be very vulnerable.

Keep cats indoors and protect your dogs from frostbite or hypothermia (cold stress) by taking them outside for short periods during cold weather. Some dogs, especially puppies and short-coated breeds, may benefit from a dog sweater or coat as an extra layer of warmth.

Remember to always check for signs that your companion animal may be cold or uncomfortable during the winter.

Signs that your dog is cold

Shaking or shivering
Hunched posture with a tucked tail
Whining or barking
Change in behaviour, showing anxiety
Reluctance to keep walking or tries to turn around
Seeks places to shelter
Lifts paw off the ground

Signs of hypothermia

Wrap your furry friend in a blanket or coat, seek a warm shelter and immediate veterinary support for your furry family member if you see any of the following:

Frostbite (can take several days to develop)

– Often presents on the extremities (ears, legs, paws, tail)

– Pale, cold skin that can be painful to touch

– May develop redness, swelling and blisters of exposed skin

– Skin may turn black
Hypothermia (can range from mild to severe)

– Prolonged shivering

– Weakness

– Muscle stiffness

– Difficulty walking

– Pale gums

– Confusion

– Slow, shallow breathing

– Loss of consciousness

Though it’s important to pay attention to these things, you shouldn’t wait to see the first signs of discomfort to call your walk or playtime quits. While maintaining your dog’s exercise requirements during the winter is important, when conditions are especially cold it’s a good idea to cut your walk short and supplement your animal’s exercise with some indoor activities and enrichment.

Other tips to keep in mind:

When the temperature drops below freezing, your furry friends should not be left outside for extended periods.
Cats, short-coated dogs and puppies are more vulnerable in cold temperatures.
Keep cats indoors and protect your dogs from frostbite or hypothermia by taking them outside for only short periods.
If needed, consider dog sweaters or coats as an extra layer of warmth for especially cold days.
Never shave your dog down in the winter; a longer coat will provide more warmth. (With an exception to shave matted fur, as matted fur can make furry friends very susceptible to the cold.)
When bathing your dog during winter months, be sure they are completely dry before taking them outside.

More precautions:

Use a damp towel to wipe your dog’s paws and underside after being outside.
Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice on roads and sidewalks can irritate and burn your furry friend’s paws – and cause illness if ingested.
Consider using “booties” to protect paws.
Keep your dog on a leash, especially during a snowstorm, since dogs can have difficulty following a scent in fresh snow and can easily become lost. They may also not be as visible to oncoming traffic in snowstorms, so staying on a leash and having high visibility/reflective material on would be very helpful as well.
Ensure your furry friend has a warm place to sleep away from drafts and off the floor – a thick cozy dog or cat bed with a blanket or pillow is great!

More winter pet safety tips

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.

Our animal companions can’t tell us when something hurts, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t experiencing pain. Dogs, cats, and other animals often instinctively hide discomfort, which can make it difficult for guardians to recognize when something is wrong. Learning to spot the subtle signs of pain can make a life-changing difference for your pet’s health and wellbeing.

Changes in behaviour

Changes in behaviour are often one of the first indicators. A normally social animal may become withdrawn, irritable, or unusually aggressive. Conversely, a typically independent animal may suddenly seek constant attention or reassurance. If your pet seems “not quite themselves,” it’s worth paying closer attention.

Shifts in activity or mobility

Shifts in activity or mobility can also signal discomfort. Limping, stiffness when standing or lying down, reluctance to climb stairs or jump, sleeping more or decreased interest in walks and playtime may point to pain, particularly in older animals or those with arthritis. Cats may stop jumping onto favourite surfaces, while dogs may hesitate before getting up.

Changes in grooming habits

Changes in grooming habits are another common clue. Animals in pain may groom less, leading to a dull or unkempt coat. Others may excessively lick or chew one specific area, which can indicate localized pain or irritation. Overgrooming can even result in bald patches.

Appetite changes

Eating habits can also be affected. An animal experiencing pain may eat less, eat more slowly, or avoid food altogether. Dental pain, digestive discomfort, or underlying illness can all influence how and when your pet eats.

Vocalization

Whining, whimpering, growling, or yowling can all be expressions of pain, especially if they occur during movement or when a certain area is touched.

You may also notice physical signs, such as panting when it’s not hot, trembling, changes in posture (tail tucked, ears flattened, curling into themselves), or squinting eyes. These can indicate stress or discomfort and should not be ignored.

What to do if you suspect your pet is in pain

If you suspect your pet is in pain, the most important step is to consult a veterinarian. Never give human pain medications to animals without consulting a veterinarian first, as many are toxic and potentially life-threatening.

Your pet depends on you to notice when something isn’t right. By recognizing the signs of pain early and seeking professional care, you can help ensure they live a comfortable, happy, and healthy life.

Fostering an animal is one of the most meaningful ways you can help vulnerable animals in your community. Volunteers for the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s Provincial Foster Care Program provide temporary, loving homes for animals who need a little extra time, care, or space before finding their forever families.

What is fostering?

Foster care is a temporary home placement for animals who aren’t yet ready for adoption. This could be because they’re very young, recovering from health issues, learning confidence and social skills, or simply overwhelmed by the shelter environment. These homes help animals feel safe, cared for, and loved.

Animals you might foster include:

Puppies and kittens too young to be adopted

Pregnant animals and their litters

Pets recovering from surgery or illness

Animals needing extra socialization before adoption

What is it like to be a foster parent?

Being a foster parent is rewarding, but it’s also a real commitment. Here’s what you can expect:

Daily fulfillment

You give the animals food, playtime, affection, and attention to help them thrive emotionally and physically. Fostering is a fulfilling experience – from watching shy animals come out of their shells to the satisfaction of knowing you helped them get ready for adoption.

A safe space at home

Foster pets may need a quiet room or area away from other animals, especially if they’re healing or working on new behaviours.

Care and support

You’re never on your own. Staff provide care plans, training, and support, and they’re available to answer questions throughout the foster experience.

If medical care is needed, the Ontario SPCA helps coordinate what’s necessary, and you’ll have access to support for non-emergency questions.

Bittersweet goodbyes

While fostering is an amazing and rewarding experience, it can also be emotional when they leave for their forever home, so be prepared for both the love and the bittersweet goodbyes.

What you’ll need to get started

The Ontario SPCA asks potential foster volunteers to meet a few basic requirements before applying:

Be 18 years or older.

Have reliable transportation to get animals to and from the centre, appointments, or supply pickups.

Provide a safe, appropriately sized space (like a spare room or quiet zone) for your foster pet.

Be prepared for the time and energy involved in care and interaction.

Consider whether your current pets are comfortable with a new animal in the home.

Experience is helpful but not required; willingness to learn is what matters most. Training, manuals, and online resources are provided.

How to apply

Visit the Ontario SPCA foster page and fill out the online application.

The team will reach out to candidates who may be a good match for the current needs in your area.

Complete any required training and orientation.

Once approved, you’ll be ready to welcome your first foster animal!

Apply here

Why foster?

Fostering doesn’t just help animals, it helps expand animal care capacity, giving more pets a chance at adoption. Each foster home opens space at the animal centre and provides one-on-one support for animals who need a little extra TLC.

Whether you’re fostering a timid kitten learning to trust or a recovering dog gaining strength, your home becomes a vital steppingstone to the second chance they deserve.

When we think about keeping our dogs healthy, physical exercise often comes to mind. Walks, runs, and playtime are essential, but mental exercise is just as important for a dog’s overall well-being.

At the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, we know that a mentally stimulated dog is often a happier, calmer, and more confident companion.

Why it’s important

Dogs are intelligent, curious animals. Without opportunities to use their brains, dogs can become bored or frustrated, which may lead to unwanted behaviours, such as excessive barking, chewing, digging, or restlessness. Mental enrichment helps channel that energy in a positive way.

Benefits

One of the biggest benefits of mental exercise is stress reduction. Activities that engage a dog’s mind, such as puzzle toys or training sessions, can help lower anxiety and provide a sense of purpose. This is especially helpful for dogs who experience separation anxiety or stress in new environments.

Mental stimulation is also key to supporting good behaviour. Teaching new cues or introducing interactive games strengthens communication between you and your dog. It reinforces positive behaviours and builds trust, making everyday interactions smoother and more enjoyable for both of you.

For senior dogs, mental exercise plays an important role in cognitive health. Just like people, dogs can experience age-related cognitive decline. Gentle brain games, slow-paced training, and enrichment activities can help keep their minds sharp and provide meaningful engagement as their physical abilities change.

Mental exercises

Mental exercise doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Simple activities can make a big difference, such as:

Using food dispensing toys or snuffle mats

Teaching a new trick or practicing existing ones

Letting your dog safely sniff and explore on walks

Swapping out toys to keep things fresh and interesting

Even short, daily mental enrichment sessions can help prevent boredom and improve your dog’s quality of life.

Every dog, regardless of age, breed, or energy level, benefits from mental exercise. By providing opportunities for learning, problem-solving, and exploration, you’re supporting not just your dog’s brain, but their emotional well-being too. A stimulated mind helps create a more relaxed, confident dog and a stronger bond between you and your furry friend.

Calls for support continue as Northern communities battle harsh winter conditions

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (Jan. 29, 2026) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has welcomed more than 50 animals from remote Northern communities into its care this January, responding to increased calls for support as extreme winter conditions, limited supplies, and hazardous travel continue to affect communities across the North.

On Tuesday, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society welcomed 23 cats, seven puppies, and three dogs from remote Northern communities, some travelling as far as 2,000 kilometres. Thanks to the help of the Northern Reach Network, the Bark Bus and many volunteers, staff and community members who put in long hours, these animals will soon find loving homes through Ontario SPCA animal centres in Barrie, Orillia, Midland, York Region, Napanee, and Sudbury.

Earlier this month, the Ontario SPCA took in 18 puppies who were transferred from Northern communities in urgent need of shelter. Not long after, a nursing dog and her three pups arrived. The Ontario SPCA has also sent more than 12,000 lbs of food North to help keep animals fed, and with the families who love them.

“There is an urgent and growing need in the North this winter,” says Arista Wogenstahl, Northern Regional Manager of Community Outreach Services with the Ontario SPCA. “Communities are reaching out earlier and more often for support as extreme weather and supply challenges make it harder for people to care for their animals.”

Limited access to veterinary care, including spay and neuter services, has contributed to rising animal populations in Northern Canada. Working alongside community partners, the Ontario SPCA delivers critical resources such as food and mobile wellness services while supporting long-term solutions through population management and adoption initiatives.

As a registered charity that is 100 per cent donor funded, the Ontario SPCA relies on the generosity of supporters to help animals and the people who care for them. To donate to support the Ontario SPCA’s work in the North, visit ontariospca.ca

Media Contact

Media Relations

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

905-898-7122 x 375

[email protected]

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is a registered charity that has been changing the lives of animals for over 150 years. The Society provides care, comfort and compassion to animals in need in communities across Ontario. It values all animals and advocates to treat them with respect and kindness. The Society strives to keep pets and families together and 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.

Just like us, our furry friends can experience uncomfortable, dry skin during the winter months. That’s why it’s important you do whatever you can to increase their comfort and help them enjoy this winter season!

Here are 4 tips for dealing with your furry friend’s dry skin this winter:

Dry skin can be caused by repeatedly coming out of the wet cold into the dry heat. So, keep your home humidified, and towel-dry your furry friend as soon as they come inside, especially on their feet and between their toes.

During really cold weather, bathe your companion animal less frequently. Bathing them too often can remove necessary oils from their skin and fur and can increase skin irritation.

Groom often! Brushing your furry friend gets rid of dead hair and stimulates blood circulation to improve the skin’s overall condition.

Giving your companion animal a coat to wear when going for walks outdoors can also protect their skin. It does this by helping to retain body heat, preventing dry skin in the process. Learn more about fitting your dog for a winter coat.

Also consider putting some boots on your animal for winter walks to keep the ice and salt from irritating their paws.

Speak with your pet’s veterinarian about adding omega-3 supplements to their diet.

Always contact your veterinarian for advice on how to care for your animal’s individual needs if your furry friend is experiencing itching or skin issues.

Protect your furry friend and keep them warm and comfortable this winter season!

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

The provincial government has launched a public consultation as a first step towards banning medically unnecessary veterinary procedures, including feline declawing, and ear cropping and devocalization of dogs.

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is pushing to have the province ban these procedures, as well as tail docking of dogs. Here are five things you should know about unnecessary veterinary procedures. You can also show your support by visiting changeforanimals.ca and send a message to the government in support of a ban.

Five key facts about Unnecessary Veterinary Procedures

There are alternatives to feline declawing

Scratching furniture is something that many cat parents contend with, and some turn to partial digital amputation, or feline declawing, as an easy solution. The procedure is painful for the cat (imagine removing not just your fingernail, but the entire finger bone below your last finger joint). It can lead to long-term consequences such as risks of infections and incomplete amputations that cause excruciating pain. It can also lead to negative behaviors such as not using the litterbox, or biting as their first line of defense has been removed.

Fortunately, there are more effective ways to manage this natural behaviour, including using scratching posts and surfaces, or behavior modification involving rewards and deterrence. The alternatives can be more effective and less traumatic.

Barking doesn’t need to mean devocalization

Removing a dog’s vocal cords is sometimes used by owners to reduce or eliminate their bark. This surgery comes with risks that can range from post-operative complications to pneumonia, stridor, and even heat intolerance. In addition to being unethical and cruel to take away a dog’s natural ability to speak, it also isn’t necessarily effective, with some dogs regaining a near normal bark within months.

Much like feline declawing, excessive barking is best dealt with through a training and behaviour approach. Barking is normal for dogs, for reasons from playing to warning to greeting. If barking is excessive, working with a veterinarian or a certified positive reinforcement-based trainer to identify the reasons why is the best option. Is the dog bored or isolated? Are they responding to external triggers or behavioural issues? Once a reason is identified then solutions can be developed that could be as simple as automatic food dispensers or taller fencing to reduce stimulation.

Ear cropping and tail docking misses the point

Canine ear cropping and tail docking often happen to change the natural appearance of some dog breeds. Tail docking, where some or all of the tail is amputated, typically takes place when puppies are only a few days old and often happens without anesthesia. This procedure puts the young puppies at risk of infection or death from blood loss. In addition to forcing the dog to undergo painful surgery, changing a dog’s ear or tail can impact their natural ability to communicate, and it can lead to chronic pain. It also doesn’t change their genes, meaning those traits aren’t passed along to their offspring. If these procedures are being done to ensure dogs look a particular way, doing unnecessary surgery on multiple generations of dogs just doesn’t make sense.

Unnecessary isn’t the same as therapeutic

Sometimes the same procedures can have two different purposes. Partial digital amputation can happen for legitimate, veterinary medical purposes, such as removing tumors or managing chronic infections. Similarly, devocalizations will sometimes be performed for the medical treatment of laryngeal paralysis, cancer, or to address airway obstructions. These procedures only be done when a veterinarian deems them medically necessary for the animal, and not for cosmetic or convenience purposes.

Ontario has been lagging behind the rest of Canada

Every province in Canada, except for Ontario, has put controls in place to ban or restrict medically unnecessary veterinary procedures. While there are differences between provinces when it comes to which procedures are included or if they are restricted by provincial veterinary associations or the provincial government, Ontario is the only province that has not taken action. The provincial government’s consultation on the issue is an important step, but they need to hear from people across Ontario to make sure that they follow-through on bringing in a ban.

How you can help

You can help end unnecessary veterinary procedures, and push the Ontario government to include tail docking on the list, by visiting changeforanimals.ca and send a message to the provincial government.

Sources:

Canadian Veterinary Medical Association: https://www.canadianveterinarians.net/policy-and-outreach/position-statements/

CTV News: https://www.ctvnews.ca/montreal/article/non-essential-surgery-on-pets-now-banned-in-quebec/

Some of us love having our pets sleep in our room at night. But what if your furry friend isn’t sleeping well? This could keep you up, too. If your pet is healthy but keeping you up at night, here are some tips to help them sleep soundly.

Designate a sleeping space

Make sure your furry family member has a place set aside for bedtime. Cats like to have somewhere warm to sleep, so you may want to set out a blanket or pet bed. Dogs tend to prefer sleeping in a pet bed or crate. Let your furry friend go to their bed voluntarily instead of picking them up and placing them there (you may need to use treats to lead them to bed). And keep the location of your pet’s bed in the same place every night.

Keep to a regular schedule

Dogs and cats like routine. If you wake up at different times during the week, your pet may have a harder time sleeping soundly. If you do keep to a regular schedule during the week but like to sleep in on weekends, don’t be surprised if you get a wakeup call from your furry friend!

Distance your pet from the bedroom

If your fur baby sleeps in the same room or bed as you, you’re more likely to be woken up by your pet’s middle-of-the-night movements. If shutting your pet out of your room results in your pet whining or wailing, try to ignore the noise; reacting will teach your pet that this is an effective way to get your attention.

Birds and small mammals

Birds need to sleep with their cages covered at night to block out any light. Likewise, small mammals should have a covered area in their habitat (like a box with an opening) so they can sleep and feel protected. It’s not unusual for animals like gerbils or mice to get a little exercise on their wheel at night. If this is the case, place their habitat a little farther away from your bed.

Following these simple tips can help both you and your pet get the restful sleep you both deserve!

As pet parents, we often wonder what’s going on in our furry friends’ minds. While they may not be able to say “I love you” out loud, animals have their own special ways of showing affection. If you’ve ever questioned whether your pet feels the same bond you do, here are some heartwarming signs that they really love you.

They follow you around

If your dog or cat shadows you from room to room, it’s not just curiosity. Being near you makes them feel safe and happy, and they simply enjoy your company.

Tail wagging and body language

Wagging tails, gentle wiggles, or a relaxed posture are signs of comfort and joy. Cats may express their affection by brushing up or by curling up beside you, while dogs often can’t hide their excitement with a full-body wag.

Bringing you “gifts”

It might be a toy, a stick, or, in the case of cats, something a little less appealing from the outside. While not always convenient, these offerings are a sign that your pet considers you part of their family.

Physical touch

Whether it’s a dog leaning against your leg, a cat kneading your lap, or even a gentle headbutt, physical closeness is one of the clearest ways pets express love.

Excitement when you return

Few things compare to the joy of being greeted at the door by a wagging tail or a purring kitty. That burst of energy is pure happiness at having you back in their world.

Every animal shows love in their own unique way, but the common thread is trust and comfort. If your pet displays these signs, rest assured, they adore you just as much as you adore them.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Ontario SPCA reminds pet parents to take extra care during extreme winter weather

Stouffville, ON (Jan. 22, 2026) – As bitter cold settles across the province, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is reminding pet parents to take precautions to help keep their animals safe. Extreme winter weather can lead to serious risks like frostbite and hypothermia, and animals rely on us to protect them from the elements.

“Even a short time in severe cold can be dangerous for animals,” says Dr. Joey Tang, Interim Medical Director, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “By watching for signs of discomfort and making small adjustments to your routine, you can help keep your pets safe this winter.”

Some animals love the snow, but prolonged time outdoors can quickly become hazardous in frigid temperatures. Keep a close eye when your dog is outside playing and watch for early signs of the cold, such as shivering or holding up their paws. Cats, puppies, seniors and animals with short coats are especially vulnerable during cold snaps. An insulated sweater or coat can offer much-needed protection for dogs who need an extra layer. But even with winter clothing, animals should only be outside for short periods during extreme cold.

As temperatures drop, frozen lakes and rivers may look inviting to curious pets, but ice can be unpredictable. Keep your pet close, steer clear of the water’s edge, and be mindful of thin or refrozen ice that could break without warning.

The Ontario SPCA also urges caution around vehicles. Cars cool rapidly in winter, making them unsafe places for pets. Engines remain warm for a while after being turned off and can attract cats seeking shelter. Before starting your car, knock on the hood or honk the horn to make sure no animals are hiding underneath.

If you’re worried about the safety of an animal, call the Government of Ontario’s Provincial Animal Welfare Services team at 1-833-9ANIMAL (1-833-926-4625) or contact your local police. In an emergency, call 911.

For more information on winter pet safety, visit ontariospca.ca

Media Contact

Media Relations

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

905-898-7122 x 375

[email protected]

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

We are honoured and excited to announce a truly incredible milestone at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society – we now have over 1,000 active, dedicated volunteers supporting animals and communities across the province.

This achievement marks a remarkable moment of growth. At the end of 2022, our volunteer community was around 300 strong. Today, more than 1,000 compassionate individuals are giving their time, energy, and skills to help animals in need. This is a powerful testament to the generosity and commitment of people who believe in creating a kinder future for animals.

The impact of our volunteers

Our volunteers play an essential role in nearly every aspect of our work. From animal care, walking dogs, grooming cats, and transporting animals, to fundraising efforts and community outreach, their contributions make lifesaving work possible every single day. We are also deeply grateful to our foster volunteers, who open their hearts and homes to animals who need extra care, patience, and love as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives.

Volunteers are truly the backbone of the Ontario SPCA. So far this year alone, they have contributed more than 19,000 hours of service. Here are some amazing numbers that mark the incredible dedication of our volunteers:

Animals transported: 2,107
Cats cared for: 11,312
Cats groomed: 635
Dogs cared for: 2,576
Dogs walked: 3,933
Loads of dishes completed: 418
Loads of laundry completed: 578
Animals fostered: 971

Along the way, volunteers share their unique talents while building new skills, friendships, and connections rooted in compassion.

Thank you!

This milestone isn’t just about reaching a number. It represents 1,000 people who choose to show up for animals, day after day. Whether working on the frontlines of animal care or supporting operations behind the scenes, each volunteer has helped shape the impact we’ve made together and the lives we’ve changed.

From all of us at the Ontario SPCA – thank you! Your kindness, dedication, and unwavering support mean the world to the animals we serve.

Pocket pets like rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters thrive on enrichment, just like larger animals. At the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, we understand the importance of providing a stimulating environment for our furry friends. From socializing and brushing/grooming sessions, to an array of toys, we ensure that every pocket pet in our care experiences a fulfilling life while awaiting their forever home.

The importance of enrichment

Socializing is more than just companionship; it’s a vital aspect of pocket pet care. The animal care teams and volunteers at our 13 animal centres across the province devote time to interact with each animal, offering cuddles, gentle handling, and positive reinforcement. These interactions not only provide mental stimulation, but also help build trust and confidence, which is crucial for their overall well-being.

Enrichment tips

Regular brushing and grooming sessions are not only pampering sessions, but are also essential for maintaining the health and hygiene of our pocket pets. Each animal in the care of the Ontario SPCA receives grooming to remove loose fur, prevent matting, and to ensure they look and feel their best. This grooming routine is also an opportunity for bonding and provides sensory stimulation through gentle touch.

Another form of enrichment used by the team is through toys. Toys are tools for mental and physical exercise. From chew toys for rabbits and guinea pigs to tunnels, balls, and puzzles, our pocket pets are given plenty of options! These toys encourage natural behaviours, such as chewing, digging, and problem-solving, keeping their minds sharp and boredom at bay.

Providing enrichment for your pocket pets can be easily accomplished with items you may already have around your home.  Paper towel rolls and paper bags can be stuffed with hay or treats. Cardboard boxes can become hiding places or tunnels.

Enrichment isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for animals. It promotes physical and mental well-being, reduces stress, and prevents behavioural issues. Looking to adopt? Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to view our animals available for adoption!