For many people, the Thanksgiving holiday is a time to get together with friends and family to enjoy a delicious meal together. If you want to make sure your dog doesn’t feel left out, we have some special treat ideas just for them!
Before we share these special treats, here are a few general safety tips to keep in mind.
General safety tips
- Do not introduce new foods to your furry friend this weekend. Human food should only be introduced after a conversation with your veterinarian.
- If you have company coming over, it’s important to tell them not to feed your furry friend from the table.
- Consider leaving your companion animal in a different room during mealtime with some of their own treats and favourite toys.
- Foods to watch out for include chocolate, raisins, grapes, yeast (raw dough), turkey drippings, any kind of bones, and foods cooked with garlic and onion, as these can all be toxic to our furry friends. Learn more about foods that are harmful to dogs and foods that are harmful to cats.
More about why Thanksgiving food may not be safe for your furry friend can be found here!
Thanksgiving treat ideas for your furry friend
Here are some holiday treat ideas you can make for your furry friend to enjoy in their own space during Thanksgiving celebrations:
DIY fall pumpkin dog treat
Using simple ingredients such as flour, pumpkin puree, and peanut butter*, you can roll the dough and create fun, festive shapes using cookie cutters. Bake cookies for 30 minutes, allow them to cool and let your furry friend enjoy!
DIY Apple peanut butter* balls
Peanut butter and an apple – super simple! Just spread peanut butter on a cut up apple and freeze it. Make sure you take it out 30 minutes before serving it to your furry friend!
*Watch for peanut butter with artificial sweeteners such as xylitol or birch sugar, as it can be toxic to dogs.
We hope you enjoy making these treats as much as your dog enjoys eating them!
Have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving!
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.
Small animals also require their daily dose of fun and excitement outside of their enclosures to help keep them healthy and happy. However, outside playtime should be supervised in a safely enclosed and pet-proofed area.
A rodent’s teeth grow continuously, so it’s important to provide appropriate chew-safe toys and to keep loose electrical wires or dangerous items out of reach. Below are some tips to create fun and fabulous sports centres for your small furry family members!
Guinea pigs are gentle, social creatures who love to play
Good guinea pig games offer tunnels for chewing and playing in, such as paper towel and toilet paper rolls (slit up the side so they can’t get stuck inside) or “chubes” (often made of vegetable parchment).
Plastic balls designed for small animals provide additional entertainment, as well as non-toxic wooden toys, plastic spoons, and small stuffed animals. Let your guinea run around in a room in your house for extra exercise every day. An excited guinea pig makes a chorus of loud, happy whistles!
Hamsters enjoy evening workouts
Nocturnal by nature, hamsters love their evening workouts. Exercise wheels provide a great source of activity, combined with chew toys, such as pieces of dog biscuit, or pesticide-free twigs from beech trees, maples, willows, hazelnut bushes, or fruit trees.
Cardboard boxes, toilet paper, and paper towel rolls are also safe for hamsters to burrow in, chew on, and play with. Wooden ladders and branches fastened securely to the inside of the cage can help hamsters show off their climbing agility. Scattering food pellets into the cage is an easy source of stimulation.
Rats and mice enjoy tons of toys
For rats and mice, cardboard paper towel tubes make great tunnels; cardboard egg cartons are perfect for climbing and chewing; wooden blocks satisfy a rodent’s need to gnaw; and plastic or solid metal exercise wheels provide hours of fun (avoid wire versions, which they can get their tails stuck in). For a special rat hammock, tie a thick rope across the cage or use an old dish rag! Ladders and branches are also great toys, and don’t forget small balls (but no rubber ones). Make a mouse maze with paper towel tubes and boxes with entrance holes cut out. For a tempting treat, place a brown paper bag open and on its side!
Cool gerbil toys add spice to life
Great gerbil toys include overturned flowerpots, boxes, and cardboard tubes for exploring, as well as rocks and ladders for climbing and crawling. Keep in mind that gerbils can’t see very well, so watch your pet carefully so they don’t have accidents when outside their cage. For their chewing pleasure, make sure your gerbil has a piece of log or wood that hasn’t been painted or treated with chemicals.
Romping rabbits enjoy active fun
Rabbits enjoy things they can toss, roll, chew on and bat. Inexpensive toys can include paper towel or toilet paper rolls, wicker, hard plastic baby keys, cat toys like solid balls, a log (that hasn’t been sprayed with paint or chemicals), or a fallen branch from an apple tree. Rabbit cages should offer some tempting diversions, including wooden boxes or rocks they can get up on or go under. When the weather is nice, you can let your supervised rabbit play in your fenced backyard (make sure that pesticides and fertilizers have not been applied to the grass).
If a small animal is the right companion for you, visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to see animals available for adoption.
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 (Oct. 9, 2025) – Ontario SPCA and Humane Society animal centres across the province will be welcoming over 40 dogs and cats from Northern Ontario over the next week to help them find loving homes.
A total of 14 dogs from the Thunder Bay & District Humane Society and Constance Lake First Nation have arrived at Ontario SPCA animal centres in Orillia, Durham, Orangeville, York Region and Brockville where they will be placed up for adoption. Next week, 30 cats will be arriving from Kenora Cat Shelter to find loving homes at Ontario SPCA animal centres.
Yesterday’s dog transfer comes on the heels of the Ontario SPCA’s iAdopt: Furever Homes adoption event, which found loving homes for 123 animals over three days in September, making space available to help more animals.
“Every adoption creates a ripple effect,” says Sonya Reichel, Vice President of Operations at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “When an animal finds a loving home, it not only changes that animal’s life, but it also opens up space to help another animal in need. By working with our Northern partners, we’re giving these dogs and cats a second chance.”
To date in 2025, the Ontario SPCA has transported 229 animals from Northern communities to find them loving homes. It also partners with communities to reduce pet overpopulation through its MASH-style spay/neuter and wellness clinics.
Interested in adopting? Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to see animals available for adoption. Animals adopted from the Ontario SPCA are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and they go home with food from Royal Canin to help ensure a smooth transition into their new home.
If you’re not able to adopt, you can make a difference for an animal by becoming a foster volunteer. The foster program supports animals who are too young, sick, injured, under-socialized, or stressed to thrive in an animal centre environment. Visit ontariospca.ca/foster to learn more and apply today.
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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 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 we step into fall, with the crunch of leaves beneath our feet and our pets’ paws, it is important to be aware of safety concerns that come with the season. Here are five fall pet hazards you wouldn’t expect:
Acorns and oak leaves
Acorns contain tannins, which can upset your furry friend’s digestive tract if ingested. This can result in vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In some cases, kidney and liver damage can also take place. Acorns can also be dangerous as they have the potential to cause blockages within the digestive tract, which can have serious consequences. Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Mushrooms
Though mushrooms tend to be an issue more in the springtime, the wet autumn season can also bring out more mushrooms. If your furry friend eats a wild mushroom, contact your veterinarian or animal poison control immediately.
For a list of poisonous plants to look out for and who to call if you suspect your pet has consumed something toxic, visit our blog.
Antifreeze
If you’re winterizing your cottage, boat or RV, be mindful of antifreeze! Antifreeze is toxic to animals. Yet, it can be appealing to them because of its sweet taste. Always be on the lookout for antifreeze spills and be sure to clean them up immediately. Ingestion of antifreeze can cause kidney damage leading to kidney failure if not treated promptly. If you suspect your animal has ingested antifreeze, contact an emergency veterinarian or poison control right away. For more on antifreeze, click here.
Rodenticides
When mice start to look for somewhere warm to spend the winter, many people turn to rodenticides. While we do not recommend the use of such products, if you are planning on using rodenticides, make sure they are placed in areas not accessible to your companion animals. As an alternative, we recommend a holistic deterrent of vinegar and pepper mix spray placed where your furry family members cannot access.
If you suspect your animal has ingested rodenticides, contact an emergency veterinarian or poison control right away.
Essential oils
If you like having candles or essential oils in your home to bring those fall smells, it’s important to know the potential risk for companion animals! Cats, dogs, and small animals process chemicals differently than humans, making them more vulnerable. Oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, citrus, peppermint, and pine can cause vomiting, drooling, breathing issues, tremors, or even seizures. If your pet shows signs of poisoning, seek veterinary help immediately. To keep them safe, avoid using essential oils around animals
Keeping these safety tips in mind, have a fun and safe fall!
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. If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation.
Nothing says Fall quite like pumpkin-flavoured goodies! While you’re enjoying your treat, why not have your furry friend join you?
The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has a delicious recipe for pumpkin dog treats that will make your pet’s mouth water!
Check out our video and try out the recipe for yourself. Let us know how you like it!
Pumpkin pet treat
Learn the specific needs of cats with our friends at Royal Canine Canada to help your parents look after your cat properly and make sure she eats well. Playing and hunting are closely linked activities for cats, and a toy is often identified as prey. To respect her instinct, keep her fit, and make her meals more playful, you can build a toy like the one at the end of this booklet, so that she actively searches her food and feels like she is hunting.
A lot of cats eat their food in small portions throughout the day
But she should always be fed the amount recommended on the bag or by your vet, so that she avoids putting on too much weight.
Do not feed your cat as you would feed yourself
Human food is not an appropriate diet for a cat.
Cats prefer to eat in a calm place
A quiet place, away from the litter tray is ideal for their food bowl.
Cats thrive when fed the right way: they often eat small portions throughout the day, but it’s important to follow the feeding guidelines on the food bag or from a veterinarian to prevent weight gain. Avoid giving human food, as it isn’t suitable for cats. Provide meals in a quiet area away from the litter box, and support their natural instincts by making mealtime playful, such as using food-dispensing toys that encourage hunting behaviour.
In response to the State of Emergency to address encampments in Barrie, the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre has been working quickly to ensure that both people and their pets have the support they need.
With many individuals being displaced from encampments and tents, there have been concerns about what resources are available for those with animals. Thanks to collaboration and community partnerships, we’ve been able to step in where help is needed most.
The Ontario SPCA’s Community Outreach Services, alongside the Barrie Animal Centre, has provided resources quickly to support partner organizations already on the front lines. We’ve provided over 500 lbs of pet food and supplies so far to the Busby Centre, Salvation Army, and Hope Centre in Barrie. Pet food distribution is also happening through the Barrie Food Bank, helping keep furry bellies full.
We are continuing to check in weekly with our community partners to ensure they have the supplies and support they need. Any organization currently working with people from the encampments can contact the Barrie Animal Centre to learn more about how the Ontario SPCA’s Community Outreach Services can support furry family members.
Additionally, Simcoe County has established a list of available resources, including accommodations that allow pets to stay with their families. The Tiffin Street Warming Centre/Triage Centre is also providing space for people and their pets. This ensures families are able to stay together during such a challenging time.
This quick response highlights the strength of our community when we come together. By working alongside community partners and local emergency housing supports, we’re making sure families are cared for during this difficult time.
The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society remains committed to being there for people and their pets. Together, with compassion and teamwork, we are helping keep pets with the people who love them.
To learn more about our Community Outreach Services, visit ontariospca.ca/communitysupport
As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to support animals in need. Please consider donating today.
Like many shelters across the province, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has experienced an increase in animals coming into its care this year. Pet overpopulation, financial challenges and a lack of access to basic veterinary services are all contributing factors.
To help keep animals out of shelters and with the people they love, the Ontario SPCA is working to increase access to basic veterinary care, including spay/neuter services, and delivering community support services, like distributing pet food to food banks to keep furry bellies full.
In today’s blog, we’ll explore some of the reasons that animals end up coming into our care for re-homing, and what we do as part of our mission to keep pets with their families.
Understanding the root causes
One of the primary drivers behind this increase in rehoming is pet overpopulation. When the number of animals needing homes exceeds the number of available adopters, more animals end up in shelters.
Pet overpopulation is often tied to a lack of accessible basic veterinary and spay/neuter services, particularly in underserved communities. In many Northern and remote communities, in particular, veterinary services may be hundreds of kilometers away, creating significant barriers to routine pet care.
Tackling the problem at the root
To help address the root cause of animal overpopulation, we operate three high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinics to make these essential services more accessible to underserved communities.
Since launching our high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter services in 2009, the Ontario SPCA has performed more than 150,000 surgeries at its clinics in Barrie and Stouffville. These clinics, which also provide basic veterinary care for families without the means to take their animal to a local veterinarian for routine care, ensure no pet is left behind – regardless of income or geography.
To help make spay/neuter services more accessible in Northern Ontario, the Ontario SPCA recently opened a new clinic in Sudbury, in partnership with Collège Boréal. It offers spay/neuter and basic veterinary services for publicly owned dogs and cats, local rescue organizations, and animals in the care of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre.
In addition to providing essential care, the clinic also supports the training of future veterinary professionals. It serves as a hands-on learning facility for students enrolled in Collège Boréal’s Veterinary Care Technician program, preparing graduates to meet the rising demand for veterinary services in their communities.
Read more about our new Sudbury clinic.
Taking spay/neuter on the road
The Ontario SPCA also hosts MASH-style (Mobile Animal Spay/Neuter Hospital) events in underserved areas. These temporary, high-volume clinics bring spay/neuter and basic veterinary services directly to communities that otherwise have little or no access to this care.
By making spay/neuter and basic care available where it’s needed most, these events help keep animals happy and healthy, reducing the number of animals entering our care. These wellness events are made possible thanks to community partners, including Pet Valu, which has been a strong supporter through its Companions for Change sponsorship. Learn more about our basic veterinary services and MASH-style clinics.
All aboard the Neuter Scooter
To further reduce barriers to spay/neuter services, the Ontario SPCA rolled out its Neuter Scooter pilot program in 2024. The service transports animals to partnering high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinics for surgery, then returns them to their waiting families at the end of the day.
Learn more about the Neuter Scooter program.
Keeping furry bellies full
With the goal of keeping animals with the families who love them, we also offer a variety of community support services to help those who may be struggling to care for their animals. Through our provincial pet food distribution program, we work with community food banks to keep furry bellies full. By distributing donated pet food to communities across Ontario, we help ease the financial burden on families and keep animals where they belong; at home with the people who love them.
Pawsitive Packs hit the street
To assist pet parents who may be unhoused, or at risk of becoming unhoused, the Ontario SPCA has rolled out a new pilot initiative called Pawsitive Packs.
Working with local social service agencies to distribute the packs to those who need them, the Ontario SPCA is now operating the program in York Region, Orillia and Cornwall. A total of 180 of these cold weather packs were given out in 2024, with summer versions of the packs rolling out in 2025.
Strengthening the human-animal bond
The Ontario SPCA is working to keep pets with the families who love them by removing barriers to care. Through spay/neuter clinics and community support programs, we’re working to prevent unwanted litters and keep animals healthy and at home. These programs reduce shelter intake and keep more tails wagging as animals enjoy life with their families.
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. Please consider donating today to help make these life-changing programs possible.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Barrie, ON (Oct. 1, 2025) – Get ready for barks, brews, and a howlin’ good time at Barrie Pet-Oberfest, a FUN-draising event presented by Barrie Subaru taking place on Saturday, Oct. 4 at Sunnidale Park to help animals in need.
Hosted by the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre, Pet-Oberfest runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a brew at the Bark Bar, presented by Brud Bar, check out the Mutt Market vendor marketplace, presented by Brad’s Tree Service, or bid on items at the “pawction,” presented by Global Pet Foods. Visit can.givergy.com/BarriesPetOberfestPawction to get a sneak peek of the auction items and start your bidding! Auction closes at 2 p.m. onsite at Pet-Oberfest.
Bring your canine pals for a dog costume contest, or try your paw at the Paw-lympics, featuring K9 games and the ultimate woof warrior obstacle course. For dogs who like to sniff (we’re looking at you, beagles!), try the scent den, where dogs get a chance to find three hidden scents and earn a treat. There will also be food vendors at the event that will make you and your dog drool, including Barking Brew’s Brews & Chews, offering dog-friendly beer and dog treats.
“Pet-Oberfest is a chance for the community to come together, celebrate our love of animals, and make a real difference for furry friends who need us,” says Meghan Coish, Events Coordinator with the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre. “It’s going to be a day filled with fun, laughter, and wagging tails.”
Proceeds from Pet-Oberfest support the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to provide care and shelter to animals in need.
To learn more, visit ontariospca.ca/barrie
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Media Contact
Megan Coish
Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre
1-888-668-7722 x 430
[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 Barrie Animal Centre is situated on the traditional land of the Anishnaabeg people. The Anishinaabeg include the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Pottawatomi nations, collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy.
The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is thrilled to share the success of our recent iAdopt: Furever Homes adoption event, held Sept. 26-28, thanks to the incredible support of HomeEquity Bank.
Over the course of three days, we witnessed the power of community, compassion, and connection as a total of 123 animals found their happily-ever-afters! Each adoption represents not just a new beginning for the animals, but also a deep, meaningful bond for their new families.
By reducing adoption fees by 20% and waiving fees for senior pets, HomeEquity Bank helped more animals find loving homes. Senior pets, who are often overlooked, were the stars of this event. Their calm, steady personalities proved to be the perfect match for adopters seeking companionship, routine, and joy. Pets bring unconditional love and comfort to their adopters, and caring for an animal provides daily structure, boosts well-being, and reduces feelings of loneliness.
Beyond adoptions, the event was also about celebrating community. Families, volunteers, and supporters came together to give animals the second chance that they deserve.
We extend a warm thank you to Kurt Browning, World Figure Skating Champion and proud animal lover, who made a special guest appearance at our Ontario SPCA York Region Animal Centre on Sunday, Sept. 28 to meet adopters and help shine a spotlight on the many animals waiting to find their match. With every tail wag, purr, and happy adoption, the spirit of iAdopt shone through.
If you couldn’t attend this event, there are still many animals across Ontario waiting for loving homes. Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt or visit your local animal centre to meet them.
Not ready to adopt? Consider fostering! Providing a temporary home for an animal in need is another rewarding way to change a life – for the animal, and for you! Learn more about becoming a foster volunteer.
Thanks to your support, iAdopt: Furever Homes was a heartwarming success. Together, we made a difference one adoption at a time.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cornwall, ON (Sept. 29, 2025) – To mark World Rabies Day and help protect the community, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society held a vaccination clinic in Cornwall yesterday where it vaccinated 65 cats.
Sponsored by Pet Valu’s Companions for Change™ program and supported by Boehringer Ingelheim, the clinic provided free wellness resources and core vaccinations for cats to assist families who may otherwise face barriers to veterinary care.
Attendees also had access to vital outreach services. A total of 3,200 lbs of pet food, as well as pet care supplies, was distributed at the event, which was held at the Agora Catholic Centre/Nativity Bowling Alley in Cornwall, ensuring that animals are not only protected, but also supported with the essentials they need to thrive.
The event took place on World Rabies Day, an initiative in partnership with Veterinarians Without Borders North America/Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Amerique du Nord (VWB/VSF). Cats at the clinic received the rabies vaccine to protect them against the deadly disease.
“Rabies is a deadly but preventable disease, and vaccinations are the best way to protect our pets and our communities,” says Bonnie Bishop, Eastern Regional Manager of Community Outreach Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “By hosting this clinic on World Rabies Day, we’re helping to ensure that families facing barriers to care can keep their cats healthy and safe.”
Each year, Sept. 28 marks World Rabies Day – a time dedicated to raising awareness about ending the fatal zoonotic disease across the globe, including right here in Canada. This is a global movement aimed at supporting the World Health Organization’s “Zero by 30,” which is a global goal to eliminate human deaths caused by rabies transmitted by dogs by the year 2030.
For more information on the Ontario SPCA’s mobile animal wellness services, visit ontariospca.ca/mobileservices
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Media Contact
Arianne Kirkey
Community Outreach Coordinator,
Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre
(613) 937-7622
[email protected]
The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society
The Ontario SPCA 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 Stormont Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre is located on the lands of the Akwesasne Mohawks and their ancestors. We also acknowledge the Algonquin, Haudenosaunee (Ho-den-oshow-nee) (Iroquois), Huron-Wendat (huron-wen·dat), and Abenaki who are neighbours and partners to the Akwesasne Mohawk.
About VWB/VSF
Founded in 2005, Veterinarians Without Borders North America / Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Amérique du Nord (VWB/VSF) is a non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to improving community health through enhanced animal health. Using a “One Health” approach, we work with diverse partners to strengthen community-centered animal health systems, directly benefiting the people and environments that rely on them. As the North American affiliate of VSF International, VWB/VSF operates independently, with ongoing programs in Africa, Asia, Northern Canada, and Europe. Our efforts focus on disease prevention, sustainable livelihoods, equitable access to resources, capacity building, and humanitarian relief, reaching over 1 million people annually. Learn more: www.vwb.org.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bracebridge, ON (Sept. 29, 2025) – To mark World Rabies Day and help protect the community, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society and Veterinarians Without Borders North America/Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Amerique du Nord (VWB/VSF) held a vaccination clinic in Bracebridge, protecting 15 dogs against the deadly disease.
Held at the Ontario SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre on Sept. 27, the clinic provided core vaccines and free rabies vaccines to dogs to assist families who may otherwise face barriers to veterinary care. Rabies vaccinations for this clinic are donated by VWB/VSF, made possible through generous financial support from Merck Animal Health.
“Rabies is a fatal disease, but it’s one we can prevent. Vaccinating our pets is the most effective way to keep both animals and people safe,” says Victoria Hiorth, Central Regional Manager of Community Outreach Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “By offering this clinic to mark World Rabies Day, we’re making it easier for families who may otherwise face challenges to protect their animals and give them the healthy lives they deserve.”
Each year, Sept. 28 marks World Rabies Day – a time dedicated to raising awareness about ending the fatal zoonotic disease across the globe, including right here in Canada. This is a global movement aimed at supporting the World Health Organization’s “Zero by 30,” which is a global goal to eliminate human deaths caused by rabies transmitted by dogs by the year 2030. VWB/VSF provides rabies vaccinations to participating clinics, along with volunteer veterinary and administration staff.
For more information on the Ontario SPCA’s mobile animal wellness services, visit ontariospca.ca/mobileservices
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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 Muskoka Animal Centre serves communities situated on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, which includes the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations, collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy. The Huron-Wendat and the Haudenosaunee Nations have also walked on this territory over time. Today Muskoka is home to three sovereign nations: Wahta Mohawks First Nations, Moose Deer Point First Nation and the Moon River Métis. These lands are covered by the Williams Treaty (of 1923), the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850 and the J. Collins land purchase (of 1785).
About VWB/VSF
Founded in 2005, Veterinarians Without Borders North America / Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Amérique du Nord (VWB/VSF) is a non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to improving community health through enhanced animal health. Using a “One Health” approach, we work with diverse partners to strengthen community-centered animal health systems, directly benefiting the people and environments that rely on them. As the North American affiliate of VSF International, VWB/VSF operates independently, with ongoing programs in Africa, Asia, Northern Canada, and Europe. Our efforts focus on disease prevention, sustainable livelihoods, equitable access to resources, capacity building, and humanitarian relief, reaching over 1 million people annually. Learn more: www.vwb.org.