June 6, 2025
Heroes in the Haze
As wildfires sweep across Canada, displacing people and animals alike, our friends at the Winnipeg Humane Society and Humane Canada are making incredible efforts to support pets and their people. We have been in communication with them to offer our support and assistance, from housing for displaced animals to veterinary support.
In collaboration with the Canadian Red Cross, Winnipeg Humane Society has opened a pop-up shelter for the pets of people who have evacuated their homes because of the wildfires.
Whether because of natural disaster or another type of emergency, we know that temporary shelter for a person’s pet can make all the difference in preventing a loving family from giving up their pet in times of crisis.
At the OHS, we stand at the ready to help our colleagues, their communities, and the animals in navigating the ongoing natural disaster. The humane movement has learned a lot about emergency response over the past couple of decades. Centralization of efforts is key to ensure that animals are helped at the right time, in the right way. We are grateful to belong to such a solid movement that works together so effectively.
In Ottawa, our skies are smoky, and Environment Canada released an air quality warning just this morning. Know how to look after yourself and your pets in hazardous conditions and take steps to prepare an emergency plan.
Wildfires are likely to become more intense and frequent in summers to come. The efforts in Winnipeg show how people who care are standing together to meet these increasing pressures and support pets and the people who love them through disasters.
At the OHS, we’re taking steps to make sure we’re always ready for our community’s pets and people in need — no matter the conditions.
Sharon Miko
President & CEO