Search Results for: behaviour

• June 16, 2026

  How to keep your small animals mentally stimulated

  Mental stimulation is important for the behavioural enrichment of small animals. With some small positive changes to their normal routine, you can have a healthy, mentally stimulated furry friend!   Changing their environment   The quickest and easiest thing you can do to change their routine is to rearrange items in your friend’s living environment. Moving items to the […]

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• June 15, 2026

  Nessy learns how to trust again 

  When Nessy first arrived at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society York Region Animal Centre in April last year, she was just an 11-month-old puppy trying to navigate a world that suddenly felt unfamiliar and overwhelming.  Like many under-socialized dogs, Nessy struggled to feel safe in new environments and around unfamiliar people. The staff at the York Region Animal Centre quickly noticed just how fearful and […]

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• Fallon David

  Fallon David is a District Chief for the Kana:takon district of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, a role she has held since 2023. She serves her community through leadership in public safety and governance, bringing a strong focus on community well-being and collaborative decision-making.   Chief David holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a […]

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• Veterinary Services

  Book your dog or cat’s spay/neuter surgery or basic veterinary care appointment at an Ontario SPCA and Humane Society veterinary clinic. We offer vaccines, wellness exams, boosters, microchips, spay/neuter, end-of-life care and dentals.

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• May 18, 2026

  Victoria Day activities for you and your pets

  It’s Victoria Day! We hope you are ready for a day filled with fun and we have a few suggestions on how you can include your furry friends! Here are a few activities you can do with your family and companion animals today.  Make some homemade treats for your furry friend  There are lots of […]

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• May 14, 2026

  The joys of kittenhood: Socialization tips for you and your kitten

  Welcoming a kitten into your home is an exciting and heartwarming experience. Those early weeks are filled with playful moments, curiosity, and rapid growth, but they’re also one of the most important times in shaping your kitten’s future behaviour.   Why is it important?  Socialization during kittenhood helps build confidence, reduces fear, and sets the foundation for a friendly, […]

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• May 11, 2026

  What is interactive play for cats?

  Interactive play involves both you and your cat engaging in playtime. This is more stimulating than when a cat plays alone and ensures they get enough exercise and mental stimulation to stay emotionally healthy. Interactive play mimics hunting and predatory instincts, which helps build confidence and reduces fear, anxiety, stress, frustration, and boredom.   When you provide this […]

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• May 8, 2026

  How to maintain your dog’s healthy weight 

  A healthy weight for your dog means better quality of life and reduced risk of serious conditions associated with obesity. Here are some ways you can feel confident you’re helping them stay fit and well.  Whether your dog has recently lost weight, gained weight or you’re looking to make sure it stays as fit as possible, it’s important to feel confident that you’re doing […]

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• May 1, 2026

  Why neutering your male cat matters 

  Neutering your male cat is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health and well-being, as well as for the well-being of animals in your community. While it’s a routine procedure, its impact is far-reaching, helping cats live safer, healthier lives while reducing pet overpopulation by preventing unplanned pregnancies.  Health benefits for your cat  Neutering offers several key […]

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• April 27, 2026

  The Ontario SPCA launches Dog’s Day Out program to help shelter dogs find loving homes

  IMMEDIATE RELEASE Stouffville, ON (April 27, 2026) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is launching Dog’s Day Out, a new pilot program giving shelter dogs the chance to spend time outside the animal centre while community members enjoy a rewarding day with an adoptable dog.  Modeled after similar programs in the United States, and supported by VCA Charities, Dog’s […]

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• April 27, 2026

  Give a dog a day out and change their future 

  What if changing a dog’s life didn’t require a long-term commitment?  With the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s new Dog’s Day Out program, it doesn’t. In fact, all it takes is a few hours.  Dog’s Day Out is a new pilot program at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society York Region Animal Centre that gives shelter dogs the chance to spend time outside […]

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• April 23, 2026

  Tips to prevent your cat from scratching furniture 

  That sweet, cuddly little fur ball that has stolen your heart has suddenly decided to channel their inner tiger and is shredding your furniture. As a pet parent, understanding why your cat scratches furniture can help you manage this unwanted behaviour.   Scratching is an instinctive behaviour and cats do it for several reasons: To stretch, to communicate, play, seek attention […]

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