Search Results for: behaviour

• A second start: Chico’s road to recovery

  Two-year-old mixed-breed dog, Chico, arrived at the Ontario SPCA Lennox & Addington Animal Centre fearful, shut down, and missing half his fur. Little did he know his story would soon have a happy ending.   Chico’s recovery  After an initial assessment, Chico was put on steroids, and given special hypo-allergenic food to treat flea dermatitis. His […]

  Post

• July 22, 2024

  Does music really have an effect on our furry friends?

  Humans have playlists for just about everything these days. A playlist to workout, a playlist to clean, even a playlist to work. Scientific studies have proven the music can affect brain waves, heart and breathing rates, and even reduce anxiety levels in humans. But can it have the same effect on your animal friend?    The […]

  Post

• July 19, 2024

  Living with wildlife: Birds

  To coexist with wildlife, consider the enormous hardships these intelligent and fascinating wild species encounter due to the destruction of their habitat. Each year they are forced into closer contact with humans and must compete with us for food, shelter and space. With a little understanding, patience and a few precautions, we can all enjoy […]

  Post

• July 15, 2024

  Understanding canine body language

  While some pets enjoy meeting new people and animals, others prefer their own space, and the company of those they are most familiar with. For this reason, it is important to understand a dog’s signals, what they may mean, and what to do when you see them. Keep reading for resources on canine socialization and […]

  Post

• July 4, 2024

  Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre welcomes new manager

  IMMEDIATE RELEASE Barrie, ON (July 4, 2024) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society would like to welcome Edward Michel as the new manager of the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre. Michel is a certified professional trainer and educator focused on creating and maintaining human-animal bonds. This motivation has led Michel to focus his career […]

  Post

• July 1, 2024

  Finding the purr-fect home for every cat: Spike’s journey as a working cat

  Not all cats enjoy the company of people or living inside a home. Sometimes community cats end up in our animal centres and cannot be returned to their original colony site, for various reasons. As former street cats who are used to outdoor life, working cats are not typical indoor pets and have no desire […]

  Post

• June 26, 2024

  Fireworks can be scary for animals! The Ontario SPCA shares tips to prevent lost pets

  IMMEDIATE RELEASE Stouffville, ON (June 26, 2024) – With the long weekend approaching, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is reminding the public that fireworks can be frightening to animals, and to take extra precautions to prevent lost pets. Unexpected loud noises and flashing lights can make furry companions feel anxious, and some animals will […]

  Post

• June 18, 2024

  Feline fun – Tips to train your cat new cues

  One of the fundamental puppy development stages is learning training cues from their fur parent. But dogs aren’t the only furry friends who can learn to follow cues! With a little patience, dedication and treats, many cats enjoy learning new things, too. Teaching your cat new cues can serve as a valuable enrichment and bonding […]

  Post

• May 17, 2024

  Positive Doesn’t Need to Be Negative: Adopting and Living With an FIV-Positive Cat

  FIV stands for “feline immunodeficiency virus.” This is a virus in the same group as HIV, but it is specific to the cat family and can’t cross over into people or other animals.    There are many misconceptions about FIV, the most extreme one being that every cat with FIV is sick and/or highly contagious and […]

  Post

• May 9, 2024

  Why does my cat sleep so much?

  You may have noticed cats spend a lot of time snoozing, but have you ever wondered why they sleep so much?   Reasons cats sleep so much  Cats typically sleep around 15-20 hours per day. Kittens and senior cats may need more than that. According to Royal Canin, this amount can increase during summer months as […]

  Post

• May 6, 2024

  Feline fortresses: The importance of hiding and perching for cats

  Felines love to hide and perch, but did you know that these behaviours aren’t just whims of a cat’s personality? They are essential for their well-being and comfort.   Cats are instinctively drawn to hiding spots as a means of security. Whether it’s retreating from perceived threats or simply finding solace in a quiet corner, […]

  Post

• April 30, 2024

  Ontario SPCA Provincial Dog Rehabilitation Centre helps Jagger find a loving home

  Jagger is a big guy, with even bigger fears. Adopted as a puppy, but then rehomed to the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society just over a year later, Jagger needed help to find his happily ever after.  Being in an animal centre setting was stressful for Jagger. He became reactive whenever he was unsure, worried, […]

  Post