2022 Media Releases

2022

Winter Storm a Danger to Pets Ottawa Humane Society Warns

Dec. 22, 2022 — The Ottawa Humane Society is urging pet owners to take caution this week as a flash freeze is expected on Friday accompanied by heavy winds and snow, leading into a weekend with the coldest temperatures of the season to date.

“Every year, cats left out in the cold suffer from frostbite and other injuries, and are brought to the OHS,” said Sharon Miko, 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. If a cat is in danger, call Ottawa By-law Services at 3-1-1.

The OHS recommends 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 animals seeking shelter.

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.

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

Badly Wounded, Pepper Sprayed Dog Recovering at the Ottawa Humane Society

Dec. 13, 2022 — Last week, Dottie, a badly injured two-year-old Labrador retriever, was found on March Road and brought to the Ottawa Humane Society. Minutes after she arrived, blood started pouring from her mouth.

The OHS veterinary team quickly sedated Dottie and discovered the extent of her wounds. She had suffered multiple bites on her face and legs, and an acrid smell hung around her, suggesting she had been pepper sprayed. She was bathed to clear away the chemical and dried blood.

After her bath, OHS veterinarians cleaned and bandaged Dottie’s wounds and administered pain medication to keep her comfortable.

When Dottie arrived, she had been wearing a collar and a sweater. The bite wounds may have been from a fight with another dog, but the OHS does not know the exact cause of her injuries. The OHS has reported the incident to Ottawa Police Services for further investigation and urges anyone who knows what may have happened to Dottie to contact the police.

“There are many unknowns about what happened to Dottie,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “But regardless of how she got here, she is safe and we will continue to provide her with the care she needs.”

Dottie is currently recovering under close monitoring in the OHS’s critical care unit. Anyone who would like to make a donation to help Dottie and animals like her can donate on the OHS’s website.

Photos of Dottie are available for media use.

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

Giving Tuesday — Donations to Ottawa Humane Society Doubled Until Nov. 29

Nov. 24, 2022 — Donations made towards the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS) will be doubled until Tuesday, Nov. 29.

“It’s incredible how our community has rallied to save lives and help complete so many families,” said OHS President & CEO, Sharon Miko. “If you’ve ever thought about donating to help Ottawa’s most vulnerable pets, this is a great time to make a huge difference.”

The extra support goes a long way for animals like Ella, a five-year-old shih tzu who arrived at the OHS with a badly injured eye. Support from the community made sure Ella could receive the surgery and care she needed to get back to her best pain-free life and find a loving forever home.

Donations to Ottawa’s animals will be matched by an anonymous donor until Tuesday, Nov. 29. Visit the OHS’s website to double your impact.

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

Santa Paws is Coming to the Ottawa Humane Society

Nov. 17, 2022 — This weekend, Santa Pet Pics return to the Ottawa Humane Society and Ren’s Pets locations.

From Nov. 19 to Dec. 21, entire families (pets included) can drop in to get festive portraits taken with Santa.

All proceeds go directly to supporting Ottawa’s homeless animals. More information about the event and a full schedule are available on the OHS’s website.

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

Ottawa Humane Society Announces New President & CEO

Nov. 3, 2022 — The Ottawa Humane Society Board of Directors has announced the successful candidate for the position of President & CEO. Sharon Miko, the current Director of Operations for the organization, begins the new role in mid-November. The news comes four months after the announcement of current CEO Bruce Roney’s retirement.

“It has been an incredible journey and honour to be part of this team’s work,” said Roney, who has been leading the OHS for more than 20 years.

In April of this year, the OHS Board of Directors appointed a search committee and recruited a hiring firm to assist in conducting a country-wide search. The committee reviewed a long list of candidates, which was narrowed to a short list through a series of interviews.

“In the end, we found that the best candidate for the job was already within the organization,” said Travis Webb, Chair of the OHS Board of Directors.

Sharon Miko joined the OHS in 2003 as Manager: Outreach, before moving to her current role of Director: Operations in 2007. Since then, Miko has been leading many of the organization’s successes, including the creation of the OHS’s mobile spay neuter services and its new Community Programs and Intervention Services departments, as well as leading the initiative that saw the OHS become the first humane society to be nationally accredited by Humane Canada.

“I’m very excited to take this next step in my career,” said Miko, “and to continue the organization’s work in creating a more humane and compassionate community for all animals.”

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Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Gillian Lemieux, Acting Manager: Communications
marketing@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Humane Society Says No Costumes for Fido

Oct. 20, 2022 — The Ottawa Humane Society is advising pet owners to not dress up their pets for Halloween. The OHS says that at best your pet will not care they are dressed up, and at worst, the costume could stress out or injure your pet.

“Putting an animal in costume is entirely for the entertainment of people,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “Animals don’t know what costumes are, and a costume only has risks and no benefits for the animal.”

Pets can get tangled in or even choke on straps and pieces of a costume. Costumes can restrict a pet’s movement which can create stress for your pet. Some costume materials can irritate a pet’s skin and cause uncomfortable itchiness.

The OHS has suggestions to safely include your pet in seasonal celebrations without dressing them up:

Get a Halloween-themed collar or bandana;
Use Halloween filters on social media;
If you bring your dog trick-or-treating, make sure they are comfortable around groups of excited people, keep your dog on a secure leash and harness, and bring water and dog treats along; and,
Dress up as a character who has a dog sidekick. That way you can include your dog in your costume without dressing them up.

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Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Gillian Lemieux, Manager: Communications
marketing@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca

Haunting Event Returns to Ottawa Humane Society

Oct. 14, 2022 — On Sunday, Oct. 30, Howl-o-ween, a spook-tacular event for the whole family, returns to the OHS. From 1 – 3:30 p.m., all are welcome to come to the OHS for free Halloween fun, including:

Creepy, crawly crafts;
A phantasmagorical photo booth;
A devilish craft sale; and,
Reverse trick-or-treating where goblins and ghouls can deliver treats to Ottawa’s homeless animals.

The OHS welcomes donations to support this Halloween fun and Ottawa’s animals.

More information about Howl-o-ween is available on the OHS’s website or through OHS supervisor: programs at programs@ottawahumane.ca or 613-725-3166 ext. 298.

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

Historic Wait Times for Foster Homes at the Ottawa Humane Society

Aug. 9, 2022 — More than 40 animals are currently waiting for foster homes at the Ottawa Humane Society, and some have been waiting for more than a month.

“The summer is when our need for foster homes is the greatest,” said Kestrel Wraggett, OHS manager: volunteers. “We’ve never seen wait times like this before. Usually it only takes an animal about three to five days to find a foster home.”

During the summer, Ottawa’s interest in fostering cools as families plan vacations and aren’t able to give a temporary home to an animal in need. In addition to fewer homes being available, population at the OHS spikes as homeless momma cats and their kittens flood the shelter.

Foster volunteers make a huge difference both for the animal in their care and for other animals at the OHS. Foster volunteers give the animals a comfortable home to relax while they wait for their forever home, work on their behaviour or recover from a life-saving surgery. With more animals in foster homes, the OHS has more space and resources to provide for animals in need.

“Fostering one animal helps so many more,” added Wraggett. “And right now, our need is the greatest it has ever been.”

The OHS provides foster volunteers with everything required for the animal in their care. Many of the animals currently in need of a foster home only have to stay with their foster family for a couple weeks.

Anyone interested in becoming a foster volunteer can learn more on the OHS’s website.

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

Seven Abandoned Bunnies Arrive at Ottawa Humane Society

July 27, 2022 — Last night, seven rabbits were found abandoned on the shared yard of an apartment building near McEwan Avenue in Ambleside and brought to the Ottawa Humane Society.

The OHS had recently declared the week of July 24 to 30 as Rabbit Week in an effort to find homes for the more than 20 rabbits already in its care.

“We did not expect the number of rabbits in our care to dramatically rise this week,” said Stephen Smith, OHS manager: communications. “We were hoping for the opposite.”

With the OHS’s resources already strained to accommodate the many animals in its shelter, the organization is appealing to the community to help find forever homes for adoptable rabbits, and foster homes for rabbits that are not ready for adoption.

“We find homes for every adoptable animal, no matter how long it takes,” said Smith. “Adopters are key in making this possible, and foster homes help ensure the OHS always has resources for the animals who need us most.”

All adoptable rabbits are available on the OHS’s website, and the OHS Shirley Kearns Memorial Adoption Centre is open for visitors to come and meet the rabbits. Anyone who would like to become a foster volunteer can learn more on the OHS’s website.

To schedule an adoption appointment, call 613-725-3166 ext. 258.

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

Ottawa Humane Society Hopping with Rabbits

July 25, 2022 — More than 20 rabbits at the Ottawa Humane Society are looking for forever homes. The OHS has declared the week of July 24 to 30 as Rabbit Week in an effort to find homes for these bunnies in need.

“Since the fall, we’ve consistently had more than 20 rabbits available for adoption at any given time,” said Stephen Smith, OHS manager: communications. “They’re being adopted out at a steady pace, but more continue to come into our care.”

The OHS announced last fall that Ottawa’s rabbit population was approaching crisis levels, and since then the number of rabbits in the OHS’s care has not slowed down.

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.

“The OHS is the best place to get a rabbit because when you adopt a rabbit, not only are you helping a bunny in need, but they have already been spayed or neutered,” explained Smith.

The OHS will be promoting its adoptable rabbits throughout the week on its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

One rabbit that the OHS is hopeful to adopt out this week is an American chinchilla mix named Gordo who has been searching for a forever home since May 2021.

All adoptable rabbits are available on the OHS’s website. Anyone who would like to learn more about a rabbit can call the OHS at 613-725-3166 ext. 258.

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

Rising Temperatures Pose a Danger to Pets

July 15, 2022 — After a relatively mild June and July, high temperatures forecasted for Ottawa this week pose a great danger to pets left alone in cars, warns the Ottawa Humane Society.

“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 this weekend, 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.

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

Ottawa Humane Society President & CEO Announces Retirement

July 14, 2022 — After more than 20 years of service for Ottawa’s animals, Bruce Roney, Ottawa Humane Society President & CEO, has announced he will be retiring in November 2022.

“It has been an incredible journey and honour,” said Roney. “The OHS has made leaps and bounds to provide more and more support for the animals and our community. I couldn’t be happier to be a part of this team’s work.”

Roney’s decision came as the OHS has nearly made a full recovery from the public health crisis. The adoption centre is open for visitors, programs for pet owners, children and youth, and more have returned, and the OHS is poised to embark on a new strategic plan for the coming years.

Roney will be working closely with the incoming CEO, once hired, to ensure a smooth transition and that the incumbent is prepared to meet the challenges of the role — continuing the organization’s work in creating a more humane and compassionate community for all.

“It’s hard to leave, but it’s easier knowing the animals are in the great hands of OHS staff and a community that cares,” added Roney.

Roney has been the CEO of the OHS since 2000 and spearheaded the construction of the OHS’s new shelter at 245 West Hunt Club Road. In 2020, Roney was awarded the Order of Ottawa in recognition of his work for the community.

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

Canada Day Celebrations Pose a Risk to Pets

June 30, 2022 — The Ottawa Humane Society is preparing for a possible spike in lost dogs as Canada Day celebrations and fireworks return in force.

Dozens of pets become lost or injured because they are spooked by fireworks. As restrictions from the public health crisis are lifted and the community moves away from virtual celebrations, pet owners may not be prepared to protect their pets from the increased noise and activity. Dogs in particular fill the OHS shelter in what continues to be a consequence of loud Canada Day festivities.

“Even very confident and calm dogs can become frightened by fireworks and other loud noises,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “While humans understand what is happening, animals with sensitive hearing have no idea what those booming noises are. Animals can become very scared, very quickly, increasing the risk that they might try to bolt and become lost. We strongly advise people not to take their dogs to firework displays.”

The OHS recommends that pet owners take precautions to protect their pet so that everyone can have an enjoyable long weekend. They suggest that if you are home when fireworks are exploding, you should remain calm and take your pet to a place protected from the noise, like a bathroom, basement or perhaps a crate padded with blankets. Draw your curtains and block all exits. If your pet is used to the television or a fan, you can turn that on to mask and camouflage the sound.

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

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.

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

Ottawa Humane Society Dog Seeking Foster Family

June 29, 2022 — The Ottawa Humane Society is seeking a temporary foster home that can take care of Harley, a four-year-old Presa Canario, until late August.

Harley has received specialty surgery to repair her knees, and needs the comfort of a home while she recovers.

“Foster homes make a big difference for animals recovering from surgeries or other intensive treatments who are stressed out in the shelter,” said Kestrel Wraggett, OHS manager: volunteers. “It gives them a calm, comfortable place to heal, and also gives us a good idea of how they will behave in a home environment.”

Because of Harley’s condition, she has specific requirements for her foster home. She needs a caretaker who is comfortable helping with her physio and medical needs, and is able to bring her to regular veterinary visits. She cannot use stairs because of her knees and is not comfortable being picked up. To help her stay relaxed and ensure a smooth recovery, she would do best in a home without other animals.

The OHS foster department describes Harley as a great girl who is friendly, happy and a joy to be around. She is crate trained, house trained, knows basic commands and walks well on a leash. The OHS provides all supplies and veterinary care needed for foster volunteers to care for animals.

Those who are interested in sharing their home with Harley this summer can reach out to the OHS at kestrelw@ottawahumane.ca to learn more about Harley and fostering.

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

Ottawa’s Biggest Event for the Animals Returns After Two Years of COVID

June 8, 2022 — The Ottawa Humane Society’s Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run presented by Hill’s Pet Nutrition will be returning on Sept. 25 at Lansdowne Park’s Great Lawn.

Registration opens today. The public health crisis had placed the event on hold since 2020, but this year’s event is expected to be bigger and better than ever.

“It’s been a long two years, we couldn’t be more thrilled to bring back the Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “It’s incredible to see the community come together in such a big way to help animals in need.”

Participants can join a 10K and 5K run, a 3K walk, the 2K Furry Fun Run and the 1K Kids Fun Run — it’s an event for the whole family. Every registration and pledge provides life-saving care for Ottawa’s homeless animals.

Anyone interested in running or walking for the animals can register at ottawahumane.ca/wwwr.

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

Ottawa Humane Society Facing Mounting Costs as Power Outage Drags On

May 26, 2022 — The Ottawa Humane Society has been without power since Saturday’s storm. In addition to repairing damages to the building and property, the OHS is taking on substantial costs in fuel.

The OHS has a backup generator to maintain essential services for the animals. This includes keeping the lights on in the critical care unit, powering machines for monitoring vitals, and providing oxygen for animals in need of surgery. The generator has been running non-stop since the outage began.

“It’s a hefty cost, but it is an absolute necessity,” explained Lori Marcantonio, OHS director: development. “The generator makes it possible to avoid gaps in providing life-saving care for Ottawa’s animals during emergencies like this.”

The OHS is anticipating the total cost from the storm to be upwards of $15,000, and is reaching out to the community to help offset some of the cost.

Anyone who would like to help keep the lights on and ensure Ottawa’s animals continue to receive life-saving care can make a donation on the OHS’s website.

The OHS is available to admit animals in distress. To make an appointment to bring an animal in distress to the OHS, call 613-725-3166 ext. 221.

The adoption centre is closed, but existing adoption appointments will take place as scheduled. Most other programs and services are cancelled until Monday, May 30.

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

Ottawa Humane Society Without Power

May 24, 2022 — The Ottawa Humane Society has been without power since the storm on Saturday, May 21. Trees were downed on the property, the building sustained some damage and is currently running on a backup generator. The organization is implementing its emergency plan.

“Our animal care team has pulled together — as they always do — for the animals,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “Fortunately we are able to continue caring for the animals and are we are tackling the situation day-by-day.”

The OHS continues to provide essential services for Ottawa’s animals and is available to admit animals in distress. To make an appointment to bring an animal in distress to the OHS, call 613-725-3166 ext. 221.

The adoption centre is closed, but existing adoption appointments will take place as scheduled. Most other programs and services are cancelled until Saturday, May 28.

The OHS Emergency Pet Food Bank will take place as scheduled at the shelter on 245 West Hunt Club Road on Thursday, May 26. To schedule a pet food pick up, call 613-725-3166 ext. 249 or visit the OHS’s website.

The OHS reminds pet owners to keep their pets safe during this time. Cats should be kept indoors and it is best to leave pet dogs at home except for their usual walks.

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

Serious Danger to Pets Left in Cars as Temperatures Soar

May 12, 2022 — High temperatures forecasted for Ottawa this weekend pose a great danger to pets left alone in cars, warns the Ottawa Humane Society.

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

The temperature is expected to exceed 30 degrees today, and is forecasted to remain high throughout the weekend.

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

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

Battered and Bruised Great Dane Puppy in the Care of the Ottawa Humane Society

April 13, 2022 — Last week, Scooby, an injured, nine-week-old great Dane puppy, was brought to the Ottawa Humane Society.

Scooby was yelping in pain when he arrived at the OHS. OHS staff examined the pup and found his jaw was red and swollen, but that wasn’t his only problem. X-rays revealed that he also had several broken ribs. The slightest movement or even simply breathing caused him a tremendous amount of pain.

Scooby is currently in the OHS’s critical care unit where he is healing through cage rest, and OHS veterinarians are closely monitoring his recovery.

“I can only imagine how much pain he is in,” said Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS Chief Veterinarian. “It’s hard to see a puppy, who should be bouncing around happy and excited, having to endure such pain.”

The OHS expects Scooby to remain in the critical care unit for several weeks. The total cost of his care is likely to be more than $2,500.

Anyone who would like to make a donation to help Scooby and animals like him can donate on the OHS’s website.

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

Ottawa Humane Society Supports Partners in Animal Rescue

March 31, 2022 — In early 2020, the Ottawa Humane Society created the OHS Partner Support Program to support local animal rescue partners and help provide for Ottawa’s animals throughout the public health crisis.

The OHS Partner Support Program has helped more than 7,200 animals in the care of more than 20 local partners — helping with projects like: acquiring mobile care unit equipment to care for farm animals, providing medications and medical supplies for birds and providing behaviour support for dogs in need.

Originally created to ensure no animal was left behind during the public health crisis, the OHS has laid plans to make the program permanent.

“More can be done for the animals when people who care work together,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “The OHS Partner Support Program is one of our methods of investing in building a caring and compassionate community for all.”

Local animal rescue organizations that meet OHS partner requirements may submit an application to the OHS Partner Support Program to receive a modest grant to help support the animals in their care.

Applications for the program’s next grant cycle begin on May 1. Animal rescue organizations interested in applying can reach out to Lindsey Marcon, OHS manager: community services for more information.

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

Ottawa Humane Society and Ottawa Fire Services Partner to Protect Pets from Emergencies

March 23, 2022 — The Ottawa Fire Services and the Ottawa Humane Society have partnered to help keep pets safe in the event of an emergency.

A “Save our Pets” emergency decal is available at no cost to anyone who would like one.

This decal is to be placed somewhere on the front of the home to alert firefighters of the total number of pets inside the home.

Decals similar to this one have been launched in the past, but were hard to remove and therefore not taken down when the information became inaccurate.

This new decal is vinyl and easy to peel away. The OHS and OFS ask that home owners remove the decal and order a new one at no cost when the information changes.

“An emergency decal on your front door can make all the difference when disaster strikes, as first responders will know exactly how many pets in your home need to be saved,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “As the pandemic winds down and people begin returning to work, planning for how to protect our pets, especially while they are home alone, is very important.”

When practising your home escape plan, always make sure to keep your pet in mind and whose responsibility it will be to bring your pet to your meeting point. In the event that it is not possible to safely retrieve your pet in an emergency, never go back in to rescue your pets. Notify the 911 dispatcher that there is a pet or pets inside and give them as much information as possible (where the pet was last seen, where the pet sleeps, where they may hide if they are afraid, etc.) OFS dispatchers will ask the appropriate questions if something is missed and will quickly relay that information to the responding fire crews.

To order a no cost decal, please visit: www.OttawaHumane.ca/Decals

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

Brutally Wounded Cat Rushed to Ottawa Humane Society

March 15, 2022 — Last week, Harvey, a brown tabby cat, was rushed to the Ottawa Humane Society with a severe wound on his face.

“There’s no nice way to describe it, it was horrific,” said Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS Chief Veterinarian. “The left side of his face was hanging off, exposing his teeth and gums.”

The maimed tabby was found wandering a neighbourhood in Ottawa South and a by-law officer brought the cat to the OHS. The OHS performed an emergency surgery to repair Harvey’s face and save his life.

“We don’t know what caused Harvey’s injury, but we are glad he was able to come here to get the care he desperately needed,” added Dr. Hutchings.

The OHS expects Harvey to remain in critical care for several weeks as veterinary staff closely monitor his healing and recovery.

The total cost for Harvey’s care will be more than $3,000. Anyone who would like to make a donation to help Harvey and animals like him can donate on the OHS’s website.

A donation can also be made by texting BUDDY to 45678.

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

Ottawa Humane Society Launches Lottery to Support the Animals

March 8, 2022 — Tickets are now available for the Ottawa Humane Society’s For the Love of Animals Lottery.

The grand prize is a brand new 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio provided by Alfa Romeo Ottawa, with other great early bird prizes like a Bowflex exercise bundle and a trip for two to Las Vegas.

Proceeds from the lottery will provide life-saving care for the thousands of animals the OHS cares for each year.

“Our community is fantastic and always willing to support animals who desperately need their help,” said Lori Marcantonio, OHS director: development. “It’s always exciting to provide opportunities for our supporters to help the animals.”

Funds raised from the lottery will help animals like Matthew, a starving, one-year-old tabby cat who was found in a ditch. Matthew had several broken ribs and an upper respiratory infection that needed care and attention.

Tickets are on sale until 12 p.m., Thursday, April 14, 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.

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

Ottawa Humane Society President & CEO Condemns Mass Misinformation

Feb. 25, 2022 — Thursday evening, Bruce Roney, Ottawa Humane Society President & CEO, penned an article confronting misinformation that raised a false alarm that protestors’ pets would be seized and euthanized at the OHS.

“No humane society would agree to euthanizing pets out of spite,” wrote Roney, exasperated with the rapidly spreading myth. “It was an ugly lie invented by someone with an agenda.”

The misinformation spiraled from misinterpretations of an Ottawa By-law tweet stating that if a protestor with pets was arrested, their pets would be placed in protective care.

Roney went on to explain the truth of the situation: In Ottawa, protective care is in place to ensure that the pets of people who are arrested, had a fire, are hospitalized or evicted have somewhere safe to go while their owner is unable to care for them.

Over the weekend, the OHS only received one animal as a result of arrests at the protest, and the animal was returned to its owner the same day.

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

Sought After Microchip Clinics Return to the Ottawa Humane Society

Feb. 24, 2022 — On March 1, the Ottawa Humane Society will offer its first microchip clinic since the outset of the public health crisis. The clinic will take place at the shelter on 245 West Hunt Club Road, and is the first of four clinics the OHS is hosting in March.

A microchip is a permanent form of identification that ensures a cat or dog can be returned home quickly if the pet ever becomes lost. The OHS strongly encourages owners of cats or dogs to microchip their pets and regularly update the information stored in the microchip.

“I couldn’t be happier to get this important service running again,” said Bruce Roney, OHS President & CEO. “Our microchip clinics were very popular before the pandemic, and for the past two years, we’ve been eagerly waiting to bring them back.”

The OHS suspended its microchip clinics in response to safety measures from Ottawa Public Health and the province. As restrictions ease throughout the province, the OHS believes it is safe to resume the service.

“The clinics are going to look different,” explained Lindsey Marcon, OHS manager of community services. “We will offer the clinic through a curbside model. That is, pet owners will drop off and pick up their pets without entering the shelter.”

A microchip appointment at the OHS takes approximately 15 minutes. The cost to microchip a pet at the OHS is $50 for the first pet and 25 per cent off for a second pet. Registration for OHS microchip clinics is available through the OHS website. More dates will be added to the website in the coming weeks for spring 2022.

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

More than 40 Animals to be Spayed and Neutered at the Ottawa Humane Society

Feb. 22, 2022 — Today, the Ottawa Humane Society is spaying and neutering more than 40 homeless cats, dogs and rabbits in the care of local animal rescue partners.

The effort is in recognition of World Spay Day, an international event to raise awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering pets.

“Sterilizing pets has many benefits for their health,” explained Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS chief veterinarian. “It also helps reduce the number of homeless animals in our community. We’re thrilled to provide this service for animals who otherwise would not have been able to receive it.”

The OHS will also soon relaunch low-cost spay and neuter clinics for pet owners in Ottawa who would not otherwise be able to afford the service. The need for these clinics has remained high throughout the public health crisis, and the OHS is working through a waitlist of registrants.

Members of the public who would like to contribute to making these surgeries and other life-saving care possible for animals in need can make a donation to the OHS.

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

Ottawa Humane Society Warns Pet Owners to Take Caution During Cold Snap

Jan. 11, 2022 — As the temperature plummets, the Ottawa Humane Society is warning pet owners about the dangers cold weather can pose to pets — especially cats allowed to roam outdoors.

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.

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