2021 Media Releases

2021

Abandoned Dog Needs Life-saving Surgery

Dec. 16, 2021 — In late November, Bosley, a senior Rottweiler-hound mix, was found abandoned in an outdoor dog enclosure at the Ottawa Humane Society.

After admitting Bosley, OHS staff soon discovered that he was suffering from a potentially life-threatening condition known as a bilateral perineal hernia. The condition is treatable, but requires intensive care and a specialized surgery — the total cost of Bosley’s care will be more than $6,500.

“Bosley is an incredibly well-behaved dog — basically the perfect patient,” said Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS chief veterinarian. “We don’t know for sure how long his condition has been left untreated, but we’re happy he’s with us now and can get the care he desperately needs.”

After Bosley receives his life-saving surgery, he will be closely monitored for several weeks while he rests and recovers with a regimen of medications. Once Bosley has fully recovered, the OHS will begin searching for his forever home.

The OHS is reaching out to the community to help cover the cost of Bosley’s surgery and care. Anyone who would like to make a donation to make emergency care possible for Bosley and animals just like him can donate at: ottawahumane.ca/helpbosley.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca

Ottawa Humane Society Warns Against Cold Weather Dangers to Pets

Dec. 9, 2021 — As the temperature falls, the Ottawa Humane Society is warning pet owners about the dangers cold weather can pose to pets — especially cats allowed to roam outdoors.

“Every year, cats left out in the cold suffer from frostbite and other injuries, and are brought to the OHS,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “A cat’s situation can change quickly in extreme weather — what was once an enjoyable stroll can become a matter of life and death with little warning.”

The OHS always recommends keeping cats indoors for the animals’ safety. During the winter, the OHS further stresses the importance of keeping cats indoors.

The OHS is encouraging members of the public who find stray cats in the cold to contact 613-725-3166 ext. 221 to ensure the cat can return home safely or to arrange for the cat to be brought to the OHS.

As well, the OHS urges pet owners to take additional precautions to protect their pets and other animals from freezing temperatures:

Limit the time dogs spend outside.
Take dogs for shorter, more frequent walks, and consider a sweater or coat for dogs.
After a walk, wipe dogs’ paws to remove salt, sand and other harmful substances.
Monitor outdoor water bowls to ensure the water hasn’t frozen.
Avoid leaving pets in a cold car.
Animals may hide in cars to keep warm. Before starting a vehicle, bang on the hood to scare away cats and wildlife.

Dogs that live outside are required by law to have an insulated doghouse built from weather-proof material, facing away from prevailing winds. The shelter must be elevated from the ground with a door flap and bedding.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Ottawa Humane Society and Ottawa Food Bank Partner to Feed Ottawa’s Pets

Oct. 21, 2021 — A new partnership between the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS) and the Ottawa Food Bank (OFB) stands to feed more than 600 of Ottawa’s pets-in-need each month and make emergency pet food accessible throughout the city.

“The OHS Emergency Pet Food Bank has already fed more than 5,000 pets during the public health crisis,” said Lindsey Marcon, OHS manager of community programs. “By working together with the Ottawa Food Bank, the service will be available where people need it most and will help even more of Ottawa’s pets.”

Through the partnership, the OHS funds the OFB to order and distribute pet food to OFB member agencies — ensuring pet food is accessible for Ottawa’s pets whose owners are experiencing hardship.
“Pets are a part of the family,” said Rachael Wilson, CEO of the Ottawa Food Bank. “We are happy to partner with the Ottawa Humane Society and build upon their successful Emergency Pet Food Bank by making it possible for food bank clients to access the pet food they need from a location that is most convenient for them.”

Pet food will be made available to clients accessing their regular local Community Food Bank. Registered clients will be invited to access pet food as part of their usual food pick up. Individuals who do not require a food bank for themselves or whose pet food needs cannot be met by the OFB can still schedule appointments at the weekly OHS Emergency Pet Food Bank, held at 245 West Hunt Club Rd.

To learn more, visit the OHS’s website.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Ottawa’s Animals Need Foster Volunteers

Oct. 7, 2021 — More foster volunteers are needed at the Ottawa Humane Society to address the shelter’s growing animal population and help homeless pets find their forever homes.

“Foster volunteers make a huge difference for the animals,” explained Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “Foster volunteers increase the OHS’s capacity for care and help homeless animals receive some much needed TLC.”

172 animals are currently placed with OHS foster volunteers and many more animals are waiting for a foster placement. Since the summer, the number of animals needing a foster home has remained high and is likely to stay that way without additional support.

“We need more people to give their time to help Ottawa’s animals,” said Roney. “We provide all of the tools, supplies and training a foster volunteer needs, and they supply a loving, temporary home for an animal in need.”

Anyone interested in making a difference for Ottawa’s animals by joining the foster volunteer program should visit the OHS’s website or email volunteer@ottawahumane.ca for more information.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Ottawa’s Rabbit Crisis

Sept 23, 2021 — The Ottawa Humane Society is alerting the community to a burgeoning bunny crisis in Ottawa and the province. Shelters across Ontario — and even in other parts of North America — are seeing a growing bunny population with few homes willing to adopt the rabbits.

Over the past decade, rabbit intake at the OHS has steadily increased — especially relative to the intake of other species.

Currently, the OHS has close to 20 rabbits waiting for adoption, a third of which are in the homes of OHS foster volunteers.

One contributing factor to the exploding bunny population may be new rabbit owners who purchased a rabbit and are unaware that like cats and dogs, rabbits should be sterilized. Doing so benefits the animal’s health and helps to control the domestic rabbit population.

“At the OHS, every rabbit is spayed or neutered before they’re adopted,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “Adopting a rabbit rather than buying is one way the public can help address the approaching crisis.”

The OHS never turns away an animal, but when the shelter population grows, intake may be delayed for a few days up to several weeks and potentially months to ensure resources are immediately available for animals in life-threatening emergencies. Constraints resulting from the ongoing global health crisis have resulted in a large number of rabbits currently on the OHS’s waitlist for admission.

“I do worry that if we’re unable to immediately admit a rabbit, that the owner might consider something drastic like releasing their pet outside,” said Roney. “This is possibly the worst case scenario as that rabbit has gone from being safe in a home on a waitlist to be admitted to the OHS, to being in danger and in immediate need of shelter care.”

For those who would like to help tackle the growing bunny crisis, consider adopting a rabbit from the OHS or becoming a foster volunteer.

If you are thinking about surrendering your rabbit, call the OHS at 613-725-3166 ext. 221. It may take some time before your rabbit can be admitted to the shelter, but waiting is a much better choice than the alternatives.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Donations to Ottawa Humane Society Tripled Until Sept. 15

Sept. 13, 2021 — PAW monthly donations and one-time gifts made to help animals in the care of the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS) will be tripled until Wednesday Sept. 15.

COVID-19 has had a major impact on the community, and the OHS continues to rely on its generous supporters to provide life-saving surgeries, medications and care for Ottawa’s animals.

“It’s incredible how our community has rallied to save lives and help complete so many families,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “If you’ve ever thought about donating to help Ottawa’s most vulnerable animals, there’s never been a better time.”

The extra support goes a long way for animals like Gilbert, a nine-week-old Pekingese puppy who arrived at the OHS with three broken ribs after being flung from a car window. Support from the community provided the X-rays, medications and care that Gilbert needed to make a full recovery and get back to being a fun-loving, energetic pup.

Donations will be matched up to $80,000 by a group of generous donors. Visit dayofgiving2021.com to triple your impact for Ottawa’s animals.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Ottawa Humane Society Cancels Annual Wiggle Waggle Walk and Run, Shifts To Online Fundraising

Aug. 17, 2021 — The Ottawa Humane Society (OHS) has made the difficult decision to cancel its annual Wiggle Waggle Walk and Run for 2021 due to the ongoing public health crisis.

To ensure essential resources are available for the animals, the OHS is turning the event into an online fundraiser where would-be walkers and runners can raise money for the animals through their own fundraising campaigns. This year, thanks to OHS donors and sponsors, all pledges raised through the virtual event will be triple-matched.

The Wiggle Waggle Walk and Run raises money for the close to 8,000 animals that come into OHS care each year. The last in-person event in 2019 raised more than $200,000, but the public health crisis has made 2020 and 2021 a “ruff” time to wiggle and waggle.

“It’s sad that we need to cancel the Wiggle Waggle Walk and Run again for 2021,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “We’re counting on participants to take advantage of having their pledges tripled to provide life-saving care for Ottawa’s animals.”

Participants can use the OHS’s online fundraising platform to track their success and share it with their friends and family to raise money for the animals.

For more information or to participate in the online fundraising event, visit: www.ottawahumane.ca/walkrun.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Rising Temperatures Pose a Danger to Pets

Aug. 9, 2021 — High temperatures forecasted for Ottawa this week pose a great danger to pets left alone in cars, warns the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS).

“Dogs die in hot cars,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “Temperatures in vehicles rise extremely quickly — even with windows open. Pets can quickly overheat, leading to brain damage and even death.”

The temperature is expected to hit 30 degrees today, and is forecasted to remain in the 30s and high 20s most of the week.

If you see an animal alone in a vehicle with the owner nowhere in sight, dial 911. Signs of heatstroke in dogs include:

Rapid heartbeat
Heavy panting
Lethargy
Lack of co-ordination
Weakness or muscle tremors
Unconsciousness
Glazed eyes
Convulsions

“High temperatures can quickly kill an animal left alone in a car,” said Roney. “If you’re running an errand, leave your pet at home. Don’t take the risk. It’s a choice that could make the difference between life and death for your best friend.”

The OHS has also released a video PSA to remind the community to protect dogs from hot cars.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Sunny the Puppy Needs Your Help

July 26, 2021 — Earlier this month, Sunny, a five-month-old Yorkshire terrier, arrived at the OHS with a broken leg. An X-ray revealed that Sunny’s elbow had a complicated fracture and that amputating the damaged leg was in the puppy’s best interest.

“It was hard seeing Sunny limping on her leg while still trying to be an excited, happy puppy,” said Dr. Mary Thompson, OHS veterinarian. “But I’m really glad we were able to give her the care she needed and that she’s on the road to recovery.”

After the successful surgery, the OHS prescribed Sunny a regime of pain medication and placed her in the home of an OHS foster volunteer. Sunny will complete her recovery in the foster volunteer’s care, and once she is ready, she will find her forever home.

To help recoup the cost of Sunny’s extensive care, the OHS is asking anyone who would like to help Sunny and animals just like her to make a donation at ottawahumane.ca/sunny or to text SUNNY to 20222 to donate $10.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Foster Volunteers Needed at Ottawa Humane Society

July 22, 2021 — The Ottawa Humane Society is calling for more people to provide temporary homes for Ottawa’s animals by signing up for the organization’s foster volunteer program.

“Foster volunteers make a huge difference for the animals,” explained Ashley Britton, OHS manager: volunteers. “Some animals don’t adjust well to life in the shelter, or have behaviour or medical needs that only a foster volunteer can address.”

134 animals are currently placed with OHS foster volunteers and nearly 30 animals are waiting for a foster placement. The number of animals needing a foster home is only expected to grow as the summer winds on.

“We provide all of the tools and training a foster volunteer needs,” said Britton. “We just need more people to give their time to help Ottawa’s animals.”

Anyone interested in joining the foster volunteer program should visit the OHS’s website or email volunteering@ottawahumane.ca for more information.

Celebrations for Reopening and Canada Day Pose Serious Risk to Pets

June 30, 2021 — As Ontario enters Step 2 of reopening and prepares for backyard Canada Day celebrations, the Ottawa Humane Society is preparing for a spike in lost dogs.

With fireworks and other noisy displays, an increased number of pets become lost or injured as they bolt from the loud noises.

“Fireworks can frighten even very confident and calm dogs,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “Animals with sensitive hearing have no idea what the unpredictable, booming noises are and pets can become terrified fast, increasing the risk that they might run and become lost. This is why the OHS strongly advises pet owners to keep their dogs away from firework displays.”

The OHS recommends that pet owners also take precautions at home to protect their pets. If you are home during fireworks, you should remain calm and take your pet to a place protected from the noise, like a bathroom, basement or a crate padded with blankets. Draw the curtains and block all exits. Sounds from a television or fan can also mask the sound of fireworks.

Roney added, “Do your pet and yourself a favour. The last thing you want is to spend a very worried Canada Day searching for your missing pet.”

Anyone who sees a lost dog is asked to call the City of Ottawa at 311.

Those who unfortunately lose their pets can fill out a lost report on the OHS’s website.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Wild Animal Responsible for West End Cat Killings — New Police Evidence Shows

June 24, 2021 — A necropsy — conducted by the Ottawa Police West Criminal Investigations Section — of one of the deceased cats from Ottawa’s recent string of west end killings revealed that the perpetrator is a wild animal — most likely a coyote.

“There is some relief in knowing that it’s not a person behind these killings,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “But it doesn’t change the fact that these cats suffered a horrendous death and that the safest place for a cat is indoors.”

“We are pleased to see how seriously both the community and OPS treated this case,” Roney continued. “Our hearts go out to the people who lost a beloved pet during these past few weeks.”

The OHS always recommends that pet owners keep their cats inside, citing wild predators as one of the many dangers the outdoors poses to domestic cats.

The OHS has announced that the $5,000 reward will be directed back to Ottawa’s animals to provide life-saving care and shelter for animals in need.

More information on wild animals in Ottawa and how to humanely handle encounters with wildlife is available on the OHS’s website.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Puppy Thrown from Car Window Lands in OHS Care

June 24, 2021 — Last week, Gilbert, a nine-week-old Pekingese puppy, was thrown from a car window on Laperriere Avenue.

When Gilbert was admitted to the OHS, he was struggling to breathe and could barely move. OHS Clinic staff immediately provided Gilbert with oxygen to stabilize him. An X-ray was inconclusive, revealing no answer as to why the little pup was having difficulty breathing.

“I only needed to look at Gilbert to know something was seriously wrong,” said Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS Chief Veterinarian. “But trying to find out exactly what was wrong was the challenge.”

Gilbert showed little progress on his next day. He would eat, but he remained stationary and still struggled to breathe.

The OHS worked with a specialist to assess Gilbert’s condition and discovered that three of his ribs were broken near his spine and were likely the cause of his breathing problems. Gilbert is currently in the OHS Critical Care Unit where he is receiving a regime of pain medication and recovering through rest.

The OHS has reported the case for investigation into possible abuse or neglect with the province.

For those who would like to help cover the cost of Gilbert’s care, a donation can be made at: ottawahumane.ca/Gilbert.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

More Deceased Cats Ignite Further Concerns

June 18, 2021 — More deceased cats with signs of abuse have been found in Ottawa’s west end in an area bounded by Greenbank, Baseline, Merivale and Hunt Club Road. In total, six cats have been discovered and are under investigation.

“This is an extremely disturbing pattern of violence,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “The sooner the killer is in custody, the better.”

The OHS is urging owners to keep cats indoors, and stresses the importance of this while an animal killer may be running at large.

Those interested in contributing to the reward for information leading to the conviction of the killer may do so at ottawahumane.ca/reward.

Anyone with more information about the killings should call the Ottawa Police West Criminal Investigations Section Tip-Line at 613 236 1222 x5760.

To report an animal in distress or an emergency situation, call 9-1-1. To report concerns about animal cruelty or neglect, call 1-833-9ANIMAL.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

New Organization Emerges to Champion Animal Welfare across Ontario

June 17, 2021 — A group of several humane societies has formalized their partnership as the Ontario Animal Welfare Network (OAWN), A Collaboration of Leading Community SPCAs & Humane Societies. The OAWN formed after years of informal collaboration between the humane societies to share best practices, lend support and help individual organizations grow — all with the goal of helping animals.

The group consists of 11 humane societies and SPCAs who together serve more than 30% of Ontario’s population:

Guelph Humane Society
Hamilton/Burlington SPCA
Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes
Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth
Humane Society London & Middlesex
Lincoln County Humane Society
Oakville & Milton Humane Society
Ottawa Humane Society
Sarnia & District Humane Society
Sault Ste. Marie Humane Society
Windsor/Essex County Humane Society

“This collaboration has been tremendous,” says OAWN member Steve Ryall. “When I joined Humane Society London & Middlesex as Executive Director, it was hugely helpful to be able to draw on the experience of other leaders across the province.”

The group provides leadership on animal welfare matters, advocates for animals and works to bring humane societies and SPCA’s in Ontario together collaboratively. Since 2016, OAWN has unofficially partnered to strengthen individual organizations in the interests of animal welfare. “This has been an amazing partnership that was missing in Ontario,” says Windsor/Essex County Humane Society Executive Director Melanie Coulter. “If I need to run an idea past someone, if I need a policy or a recommendation for a supplier, I have colleagues across the province to turn to.”

Beginning with just 5 members, OAWN has grown to 11 members and continues to advocate, educate and collaborate.

Those interested in learning more about the Ontario Animal Welfare Network are invited to visit www.oawn.ca.

Media Contact
Lincoln County Humane Society
Kevin Strooband, Executive Director,
kstrooband@lchs.ca

OHS Relaunches Online “Catch the Ace” Raffle

June 16, 2021 — Ticket sales begin today for the Ottawa Humane Society’s second-ever Catch the Ace progressive jackpot raffle sponsored by Ren’s Pets.

Last month, the OHS had launched its first Catch the Ace raffle, and the Ace of Spades was revealed in the very first draw.

“It was definitely a surprise for the first raffle to end so soon,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “But the community showed a huge amount of support for the animals, so we decided to launch another exciting game.”

Fifty per cent of ticket sales go towards helping Ottawa’s most vulnerable animals during the public health crisis. Another 30 per cent of sales contribute to the raffle’s progressive jackpot, and the remaining 20 per cent will be won in weekly prizes.

Tickets can be purchased at OHSCatchTheAce.ca in bundles of 3 for $10, 20 for $25, 50 for $50 and 100 for $75.

Weekly draws will be held every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. and will continue until the Ace of Spades is revealed.

Only people 18 years of age or older who are in the province of Ontario may purchase tickets.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Ottawa Humane Society Offers Cash Reward to Bring West End Cat Killer to Justice

June 16, 2021 — The Ottawa Humane Society is offering a $5,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest of the person responsible for killing four cats in Ottawa’s west end.

Anyone with information about these incidents should contact Ottawa Police West Criminal Investigations Section at 613-236-1222 ext. 2666.

“The OHS is very concerned about these killings,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “We want to see the perpetrator apprehended as soon as possible to ensure the safety of our community and its animals.”

The OHS warns that the west end cat killer is not only a danger to Ottawa’s animals, but also to the community. Evidence shows that violence against people and violence against animals are not distinct or separate problems and are often part of a larger pattern of violence.

“This is clearly the work of someone who is deeply disturbed,” said Roney. “Their arrest is both important for the community, but also to ensure they receive the professional help they may need.”

For your pet’s safety, the OHS always recommends keeping cats indoors, and stresses the importance of this while an animal killer runs at large.

To report an animal in distress or an emergency situation, call 9-1-1. To report concerns about animal cruelty or neglect, call 1-833-9ANIMAL.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Mother Cat Found Alone, Injured and Fending for Three Kittens

June 3, 2021 — Last month, an injured mother cat and her three kittens were admitted to the OHS. With a broken leg that pierced her skin, the mother, Lucky, was found fending for herself and nursing her kittens.

After arriving at the OHS, an X-ray revealed that Lucky’s leg was beyond repair. To improve her quality of life and reduce her pain, the OHS amputated her leg the day after her arrival.

“We cannot say for certain what might have caused her injury or how long she had been suffering for,” said Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS Chief Veterinarian. “But we are very happy that she and her little family are safe.”

Lucky and her kittens — Star, Charm and Shamrock — are now in the care of a foster volunteer where Lucky will complete her recovery from surgery and raise her kittens.

Anyone who is interested in making a donation to help cover the cost of Lucky’s care may do so at: ottawahumane.ca/luckycat or text a four-leaf clover emoji to 45678 to donate $5.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Ottawa Humane Society Launches Catch the Ace Raffle to Support the Animals

May 12, 2021 — Ticket sales begin today for the Ottawa Humane Society’s first-ever Catch the Ace progressive jackpot raffle.

Tickets can be purchased at OHSCatchTheAce.ca in bundles of 3 for $10, 20 for $25, 50 for $50 and 100 for $75.

“The animals need our community’s help more than ever,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “Our Catch the Ace raffle is a new, rewarding way for our supporters to help Ottawa’s animals.”

Weekly draws will be held every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. and will continue until the Ace of Spades is revealed.

Only people 18 years of age or older who are in the province of Ontario at the time of purchase may purchase tickets.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Ottawa Humane Society Achieves Prestigious Accreditation by Humane Canada

April 22, 2021 — The Ottawa Humane Society is proud to announce it has received prestigious accreditation by Humane Canada’s Accreditation Program, recognizing excellence in animal care and welfare.

The OHS is the first humane society to receive accreditation from Humane Canada.

“Everyone at the Ottawa Humane Society is very happy and proud to have achieved accreditation,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “It’s a symbol of our hard work and commitment to the animals and our community.”

Accreditation means the OHS fully met all criteria in providing animals with the Five Freedoms of animal welfare and eight descriptors of high-quality humane societies:

Accountable: Acknowledging and assuming responsibility.
Best practice: Following evidence-based policies and procedures.
Community oriented: Supporting animal welfare needs in the community.
Effective: Using the best approach to achieve a desired result.
Humane: Meeting the needs of animals and people.
Leadership: Setting direction to do the right thing.
Progressive: Evolving strategies to anticipate and meet changing needs.
Transparent: Providing open disclosure of practices and outcomes.

“These organizations are caring for some of the most vulnerable in our society — animals. Standards and accreditation is a way of promoting confidence and signaling to the general public that an organization has achieved best practice and is trustworthy” said Barbara Cartwright, Humane Canada, CEO.

Humane Canada’s Accreditation Program offers humane societies and SPCAs a way to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in animal care and welfare. For more information on Humane Canada’s Accreditation Program, please visit https://humanecanada.ca/accreditation/.

ABOUT HUMANE CANADA™

Humane Canada is the federation of SPCAs and humane societies, driving positive, progressive change to end animal cruelty, improve animal protection and promote the humane treatment of all animals. To learn more about Humane Canada, please visit humanecanada.ca.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Fatal Falls and Thin Ice, Ottawa Humane Society Warns of Spring Dangers for Pets

March 30, 2021 — The Ottawa Humane Society is warning the community about spring dangers to pets.

On March 22, a cat was rushed to the OHS after falling from an apartment balcony. The cat, currently recovering from its injuries in the OHS critical care unit, is a sign of an annual, deadly phenomena — High-Rise Syndrome.

As temperatures rise, cat owners living in apartments may be tempted to let their pets onto their balcony. Cats often seek out perches in high, dangerous places and if watching a bird, cats have been known to become so focused that they will step out onto thin air.

Unless in an enclosed “catio,” cats should never be left outside without a leash and harness and constant supervision. If a cat falls from a balcony, the owner should not assume that their pet has been killed, they should not give up on looking for their pet and they should call their veterinarian immediately.

High-Rise Syndrome is only one of the dangers warmer temperatures pose to pets.

During the spring, streams, rivers, ponds and lakes are a danger to pets. The OHS urges people to keep their dogs on a leash when near these bodies of water, as dogs can easily fall through ice or be stranded on a piece of ice that breaks away from a shoreline.

When close to any body of water, slippery and unstable streambanks and freezing water temperatures can lead to dangerous conditions for pets and their owners.

-30-

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Ottawa Humane Society Launches Lottery to Support the Animals

March 17, 2021 — Ticket sales begin today for the Ottawa Humane Society’s For the Love of Animals Lottery.

The grand prize is a new 2021 Audi Q3 provided by Audi West Ottawa and Audi Ottawa, with additional early bird prizes available.

COVID-19 continues to impact the OHS’s fundraising efforts as major events are cancelled. The lottery will help provide life-saving care for the more than 8,000 animals the OHS cares for each year.

“Our community is fantastic and always willing to support animals who desperately need their help,” says Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “It’s exciting to provide new opportunities for our supporters to help the animals.”

Tickets are on sale until 12 p.m., Friday, April 30, and can be purchased at: ForTheLoveLottery.ca
Only people 18 years of age or older who are in Ontario at the time of purchase may purchase tickets.

-30-

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Cat Found Frozen and Near-death Rushed to Ottawa Humane Society

Feb. 23, 2021 — On a frigid winter morning, Gerda, a two-year-old cat, was rushed to the OHS in critical condition after being discovered frozen on her finder’s porch.

Gerda’s body temperature and blood sugar were too low to be measured. She was emaciated and dehydrated. Her tail hung limp and one of her hind legs was broken. OHS veterinarians estimated that if Gerda had spent minutes longer exposed to the cold, she may not have survived.

The OHS clinic team worked quickly to raise Gerda’s body temperature and blood sugar to stabilize her.

Gerda’s tail was severely wounded and her fractured leg bone had broken through the skin. Amputating the damaged appendages was the best option for Gerda’s health and recovery.

Once Gerda was stable enough to receive surgery, Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS Chief Veterinarian, and Dr. Mary Thompson, OHS Associate Veterinarian, performed the operations to remove Gerda’s tail and leg.

“Gerda likely has a long road ahead of her,” says Dr. Hutchings, “But we’re optimistic that she will make a complete recovery.”

Gerda is currently resting in OHS critical care as she recovers from her ordeal and the surgeries.

Anyone who is interested in making a donation to help cover the cost of Gerda’s care may do so at: ottawahumane.ca/gerda

-30-

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Keeping Pets Safe During Cold Weather

Jan. 28, 2021 — In November, the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS) relaunched its Emergency Partner Support Program, providing financial and other support to 22 partners in the animal welfare community.

“Since the beginning of the public health crisis, we’ve recognized that more can be done for Ottawa’s animals by standing together,” said OHS President & CEO, Bruce Roney. “Standing together means helping the organizations who share our vision of a more humane and compassionate community.”

By the end of 2020, the grants provided through the OHS Emergency Partner Support Program helped 2,800 animals.

The OHS has also held five partner sterilization days for partner organizations who have not been able to access these services due to the public health crisis. These sterilization days have provided spays and neuters to more than 57 cats who otherwise would not have received the surgery.

The OHS is making plans for how the Emergency Partner Support Program can be continued and what the program may look like as the pandemic unfolds and after the public health crisis. The OHS stands resolute in supporting the community and caring for Ottawa’s animals.

-30-

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Emaciated Dog with Chain Collar Embedded in Neck Finds Shelter at Ottawa Humane Society

Jan. 21, 2021 — In the late hours of Sunday, Jan. 10, bylaw officers delivered an emaciated dog in critical condition to the Ottawa Humane Society.

Found wandering the rural roads of Dunrobin, the Newfoundland mix, who the OHS has named Jake, was dragging a chain attached to a chain collar embedded in his neck.

“It was unimaginable,” says Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS Chief Veterinarian. “The collar had cut into him and the skin had grown overtop, leaving two ends of chain dangling from each side of his neck. The area was heavily infected, and the hair coat around his neck was matted with discharge.”

Shortly after arriving at the shelter, Jake began vomiting and it was clear that the team needed to act fast. Dr. Hutchings performed an emergency surgery to remove the collar.

Given Jake’s emaciation, the state of the wound, corn found in his stomach and a serious hook worm infestation, it is possible that he had been on the run for quite some time.

The OHS has reported the case for investigation into possible abuse or neglect with the province.

For those who would like to help cover the cost of Jake’s extensive care, a donation can be made at: ottawahumane.ca/jake

At this time, Jake’s outlook appears to be positive. OHS clinic staff closely monitor his progress and recovery as he stays in the OHS Critical Care Unit.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

-30-