2023 Media Releases

More Than 20 Big Dogs in Need of Foster Homes

March 17, 2023 — The Ottawa Humane Society urgently needs foster homes for more than 20 big dogs. Some of the dogs have been waiting for months for a foster placement.

“Foster homes are essential for the wellbeing of the animals,” explained Kristina O’Hanley, OHS manager: intervention services. “The shelter can be a stressful place for some animals. A calm home environment can aid an animal’s recovery, behaviour training and so much more.”

The length of each dog’s stay in a foster home varies. Some dogs may only need a few weeks while others may need to stay for several months. Big dogs can be more difficult to find a foster home for as they often require more space and the care of someone who has experience with dogs.

The OHS provides everything a foster volunteer needs to care for the animal including food, supplies, toys and veterinary care.

More information about the OHS’s foster program and how to join is available on their website.

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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 7, 2023 — Tickets are now available for the Ottawa Humane Society’s For the Love of Animals Lottery.

The grand prize is a brand new 2023 Audi Q5 Sportback Luxury SUV by Audi West Ottawa, with other great early bird prizes like a home gym bundle and a cash prizes. Ticket purchasers will also be able to purchase tickets for a 50/50 draw.

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,” says 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 Snow, a two-year-old Scottish fold who had swallowed a ribbon and needed emergency surgery to save her life.

Tickets are on sale until 12 p.m., Friday, April 28, 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.

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

Ottawa Humane Society Seeking New Board Members

March 3, 2023 — Applications are open for the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS) board of directors until March 31, 2023. The OHS is recruiting for two board positions that will become vacant in September 2023.

The board of directors is crucial to the work of the OHS, providing oversight for the organization to be successful in being a community leader for animal welfare, creating opportunities for young people to learn about animals and compassion, and providing a safe haven for Ottawa’s homeless animals.

“Our board members contribute specific skills to help us advance our mission and reflect varied lived experiences in our community,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “Individuals’ unique perspectives and talents together provide the OHS with direction on how to meet the needs of our community.”

The OHS board of directors serves many purposes. The board helps create the OHS’s mission and purpose, supports and evaluates the President & CEO, participates in strategic planning, monitors and strengthens the OHS’s programs, and many other duties.

Successful candidates will serve on the board for six years. For more information or to apply, visit the OHS’s website or email ceo@ottawahumane.ca.

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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. 24, 2023 — On Feb. 28 the Ottawa Humane Society will spay and neuter 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.”

Spay/neuter is the most responsible decision an owner can make for their pet. Not only does it help the pet live a happier, healthier life, but it will prevent generations of unwanted pets to come.

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.

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

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

Feb. 2, 2023 — As the temperature is predicted to plummet tonight and remain cold throughout Friday, the Ottawa Humane Society is warning pet owners about the dangers cold weather can pose to pets — especially cats allowed to roam outdoors.

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.

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

  • Limit the time dogs spend outside.
  • Take dogs for shorter, more frequent walks, and consider a sweater or coat for the dog.
  • After a walk, wipe the dog’s 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.
  • Be mindful of animals hiding in cars to keep warm. Bang on the hood a couple times 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.

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