2023 Media Releases

Staying Ahead of the Curve: Ottawa Humane Society Taking Steps to Keep Families Together

Sept. 21, 2023 — The Ottawa Humane Society is taking preventive action to help keep pets and their families together. The public health crisis limited opportunities for pets to socialize and receive essential training, and the OHS is concerned about reports from other communities noting increases in pets surrendered because of behaviour challenges.

While the OHS has not yet seen this influx, it receives frequent calls from struggling pet owners and is taking proactive steps to keep Ottawa’s pets with their families.

“During the pandemic, dogs were being rehomed through online sites at record speed – and at record prices, regardless of their needs,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “So we have more dogs in the community, more with training and socialization needs, and less demand for dogs. The OHS needs to be available to the animals who truly have no one else. To do so, we must support families who just need a little help to keep their pets.”

A group of dog owners have embarked on training for their pups at the OHS. At the classes, dog parents learn how to help their pet be on their best behaviour, teach them basic commands, and how to be even more comfortable around new people and new dogs.

“The classes really help build a stronger bond between the dog and their person,” said Melissa Lefebvre, OHS Manager: Outreach. “It’s also a lot fun and a great chance to socialize with other people and their pets.”

The training classes are one of the ways the OHS works to help keep pets and families together. The OHS also offers private training classes, a series of workshops and webinars to support people and their pets, and free consultations to support families who are considering surrendering their pet because they are struggling with their pet’s behaviour.

Lefebvre added, “The OHS is here for every pet who needs us, but if we can meet that need by keeping a pet with their family, that’s a win-win.”

More information on the OHS’s dog training programs is 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 Urges Pet Owners to Brace for a Hot Week

Sept. 1, 2023 — After a relatively mild August, the temperature for the first week of September is predicted to soar into the 30s. The Ottawa Humane Society is urging pet owners to stay vigilant to protect their pets from the heat.

• Do not leave your pets unattended in a vehicle for any length of time.
• Keep your pets hydrated. Small animals like rabbits and Guinea pigs especially can be affected by hot temperatures and will likely need more water than usual.
• Watch for symptoms of overheating like excessive panting, weakness or even collapsing and contact your veterinarian if you pet is showing these symptoms.
• Some breeds of cats and dogs like pugs and Persian cats may be more prone to overheating.
• When taking your pet for a walk, avoid hot pavement whenever possible to protect their paws.
• Do not shave your pet as their coat helps prevent overheating and sunburn.
• Watch out for environmental hazards — a cat can easily slip out an open window .

“Even a mild day can pose a danger to a pet left in a vehicle,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “With this sudden spike in heat, we want pet owners to make sure they are keeping their pets safe.”

If you see an animal alone in a vehicle with the owner nowhere in sight, dial 911.

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

Putting People and Their Pets First: Ottawa Humane Society Planning the Organization’s Next Five Years

August 24, 2023 — Today, the Ottawa Humane Society opened a survey to receive the community’s feedback on the greatest needs of Ottawa’s pets and their owners. The survey is open until Sept. 5 and the OHS will be using the feedback to inform the organization’s strategic plan for the next five years.

“During the public health crisis, it became clear that in order to help more animals, we need to make it possible for more animals to stay in homes where they are already loved and cared for,” said Heather Hunter, OHS Director: Outreach. “The best way to do that? Find out directly from Ottawa’s pet owners what challenges might separate them and their pet and what support they need to avoid a heartbreaking decision.”

The rising cost of living has caused more pet owners to surrender their pets to the OHS. The OHS’s draft plan includes exploring the possibility of opening a new veterinary clinic to provide reduced-cost services for pet owners who typically would not be able to afford veterinary care.

The OHS is looking for feedback from the community on a variety of topics ranging from programs to support pets and their owners, to advocating for stronger legislation for animals, to developing more resources for children to learn about animals and taking care of pets.

The survey is available online and all residents of Ottawa are welcome to complete it.

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

Ottawa's Rabbit Crisis is at Critical Mass

July 24, 2023 — The Ottawa Humane Society is bursting with bunnies as close to 30 rabbits are available for adoption. In an effort find more homes for these hoppy friends, the OHS has declared July 23 to 29 “Rabbit Week” and is offering special promotions to people who adopt during the event.

“The increasing number of rabbits in our care is unprecedented,” said Stephen Smith, OHS manager: communications. “Since late 2021 we’ve been up to our ears in bunnies.”

The OHS has made Rabbit Week an annual event. Last year, 20 rabbits were available for adoption during the special week — in 2023, 50% more are looking for a home.

Smith noted that the OHS’s bunny abundance has little to do with a lack of interested adopters. “Eeyore and Pooh have been in our care the longest — they’ve been waiting since December. Compared to 2022 when we had rabbits who had been waiting for more than a year, the time it’s been taking for a rabbit to find their forever home is relatively low.”

It’s no surprise Ottawa has an affinity for the long-eared pets. They are smart, social and are comfortable in homes of all sizes. They can roam your home freely and can learn how to use a litter box.

The proliferation of rabbits is likely owed to online sellers offering unsterilized pets to unsuspecting buyers. Sellers may also be dumping their bunnies outdoors if they are not able to offload them quickly enough.

From July 23 to 29, adopting a rabbit from the OHS has additional perks. Adopters will receive a:

• More than 20% discount on their adoption fee;
• Free bag of hay;
• Farm Boy gift card to provide the first week of fresh veggies for their new rabbit; and,
• New best friend.

Rabbits adopted from the OHS also are spayed/neutered; an essential procedure that could cost a family hundreds of dollars.

Anyone interested in adding a beautiful bunny — or two as the OHS recommends (rabbits love to have a friend) — can find their new best friend on the OHS’s website.

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

Keeping Pets Safe During the Hottest Days Ever

July 7, 2023 — This week, the world has seen record-breaking temperatures. Not leaving pets alone in vehicles remains very important, and the Ottawa Humane Society wants to let the community know about other simmering dangers to their pets.

• Keep your pets hydrated. Small animals like rabbits and Guinea pigs especially can be affected by hot temperatures and will likely need more water than usual.
• Watch for symptoms of overheating like excessive panting, weakness or even collapsing and contact your veterinarian if you pet is showing these symptom.
• Some breeds of cats and dogs like pugs and Persian cats may be more prone to overheating.
• When taking your pet for a walk, avoid hot pavement whenever possible to protect their paws.
• Do not shave your pet as their coat helps prevent overheating and sunburn.
• Watch out for environmental hazards — a cat can easily slip out an open window and an unsupervised pool can be a danger to your pet

“We’re likely to see hotter and hotter temperatures in the summer,” said Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS Chief Veterinarian. “It’s important for pet owners to know the many dangers the heat can pose to their pet and take steps to avoid them.”

If you see an animal alone in a vehicle with the owner nowhere in sight, dial 911.

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

Protecting Pets from Fireworks

June 30, 2023 — The Ottawa Humane Society is preparing for a possible spike in lost dogs as Ottawa prepares for Canada Day celebrations.

“Fireworks and loud nosies can frighten calm and confident cats and dogs,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “Animals can become startled, increasing the risk that they may bolt and become lost. We strongly advise families to not take their dogs to firework displays.”

The OHS recommends pet owners take precautions to protect their pet during Canada festivities. Securing your pet in a place protected from the noise, like a bathroom, basement or a crate padded with blankets will help keep them calm . 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 the sound.

Anyone who sees a lost dog should call the City of Ottawa at 311.

Families whose pets have gone missing may file a lost report with the OHS.

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

Puppy with Badly Broken Leg Recovering at Ottawa Humane Society

June 22, 2023 — Angel, a five-month old puppy, was brought to the Ottawa Humane Society after she had badly broken her hind leg.

“Angel was limping on three legs when she first arrived,” said Dr. Mary Thompson, the OHS veterinarian who repaired Angel’s leg. “Our first priority was to make sure she was as comfortable as possible.”

The OHS immediately provided Angel painkillers and began planning her treatment. The break was so bad that casting wasn’t an option. Instead, Dr. Thompson performed orthopedic surgery on Angel’s broken leg, stabilizing the limb with metal plates and a metal pin. With the surgery, Angel quickly returned to walking comfortably on all four paws.

“Angel is doing incredibly well after the surgery and will soon be back to being a happy, healthy puppy!” Dr. Thompson added.

Angel is not quite ready to find her forever home, but the OHS is optimistic with the progress she is making each day. The OHS is reaching out to the community to help recoup the cost of her surgery and to help provide life-saving care to even more homeless animals in need.

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

$150 for a T-Shirt? Homeless Dogs in Desperate Need of Crates

June 16, 2023 — The Ottawa Humane Society is giving away t-shirts for $150 each. No, it’s not a misplaced decimal. The $150 will go towards supplying crates for dogs in need.

“The shirts feature artwork of a pug named Addison who was recently in our care,” said Stephen Smith, OHS manager: communications. “Right now, we have 30 dogs who would seriously benefit from a crate. Buy a shirt, save a dog.”

Addison and her drawing saw internet fame as a TikTok of her went viral and received close to 3,000,000 views. She was adopted shortly after her rise to internet stardom, and now the OHS is hoping the community will help even more homeless dogs just like her.

Addison fans or fans of animals in general can donate now to receive a limited edition Addison t-shirt and save a dog in need.

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

Smog Poses a Risk to Pets — Warns Ottawa Humane Society

June 6, 2023 — As forest fires threaten to affect Ottawa’s air quality throughout the week, the Ottawa Humane Society is urging pet owners to take caution.

“Smog can irritate a pet’s eyes and respiratory tract,” said Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS chief veterinarian. “Older pets and pets with heart or lung conditions may be at greater risk.”

To protect their pets, the OHS encourages dog owners to limit their dog’s time outdoors. As always, cats should remain safely indoors and it is likely best to avoid taking cats for walks or allowing them time in an outdoor enclosure during the smog.

The OHS says that if pets show any difficulty breathing or irritation in their eyes, pet owners should contact their veterinarian immediately.

Indoor activities with your pet are preferred as much as possible – food puzzles, special treats and brain games for dogs can help keep them entertained with less time outside.

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

17 Rats Brought to Ottawa Humane Society on Long Weekend

May 25, 2023 — The OHS is struggling to care for 16 stray rats brought to its care over the Victoria Day long weekend. The rats – all male and predominantly juvenile — were found in a cage outdoors in the Britannia Park area. Many of the rats are underweight and in poor health; one has already died.

The large admission is placing a strain on the resources of the already-stretched shelter as seasonal admissions increase.

Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS chief veterinarian, said “The sad reality is, had these animals been surrendered to the OHS rather than left to fend for themselves, their prognosis would be better.”

The OHS’s small animal population was already at crisis levels. In addition to 27 rabbits, Guinea pigs, rats and other small animals available for adoption, 14 small animals are still being assessed for adoption, and 34 are staying in foster homes. The shelter had already scheduled an intake of more than 20 Guinea pigs in the coming week.

“This seems to be an example of the fallout of the high demand for pets during the pandemic,” Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO Sharon Miko said. “As demand decreases, some pets are now harder to rehome and are being abandoned at increased rates.” Miko emphasized the OHS is available for anyone — regardless of circumstances — who has a pet they can no longer care for.

The OHS is urging the public to prevent the suffering of small animals caught up in unethical pet sales by acquiring pets responsibly. Don’t support online pet sales from breeders, when so many small animals are waiting in shelter for their forever home. Do your research before getting a pet, make sure you have the resources to care for a pet and ask important questions before bringing home a new pet.

Photos of the rats are available for media use.

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

Rising Heat Poses a Danger to Ottawa's Pets

May 10, 2023 — 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 Sharon Miko, 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 reach the mid 20s today, and is forecasted to remain high through the next three days. The temperature may not seem excessively high, but it’s hot enough to put pets left in vehicles at risk.

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 Miko. “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 Eliminates Surrender Fees

April 13, 2023 — In a historic move, the Ottawa Humane Society has eliminated fees for owners to surrender their pets into the organization’s care.

Previously, surrendering could have cost a pet owner $25 to $125 depending on the species of their pet.

“The fee was no longer in anyone’s best interest,” explained Shaun Renton, OHS manager: admissions & rehoming. “We wanted to make sure that if someone was no longer able to provide for their pet, finances weren’t a barrier between them and making the best choice for their pet.”

The surrender fee used to cover a small portion of the animal’s care in the shelter. With ongoing inflation, the OHS chose to remove the fee rather than increase it.

The OHS states that surrendering an animal to the shelter is one of the most responsible decisions a pet owner can make if they are no longer able to care for their pet. Renton emphasizes surrendering is also one of the hardest decisions a pet owner can make. Eliminating surrender fees may make things a little easier for pet owners who are going through rough times.

The OHS predicts removing the fee will reduce the number of animals abandoned outdoors and will bring more animals to the OHS before they develop severe medical or behavioural needs.

The OHS offers programs and services to support pets and their families such as pet food banks, accessible spay/neuter services, microchip clinics and behavioural consultations. The OHS aims to help keep families together whenever possible and is available when staying together is no longer an option.

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

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