You're making an incredible difference for animals in need!

If you can, we need a little more support to provide foster homes for big dogs who have challenging behaviours. Dogs like Herbie need the loving care and compassion that only a foster volunteer can provide.

That's 2,500 cats who had someone to cuddle them, play with them, talk to them and give them treats. Someone to provide them with the mental and physical enrichment they need to stay healthy and happy while they wait for their forever family.

Patty says that some of her favourite things about volunteering are seeing shy and fearful cats become more comfortable, affectionate and playful over time, and seeing older cats or cats with medical or behavioural needs get adopted.

Patty recently added a new member to her family from the OHS, Melly, who joins her new brother Timmy, and sister Daisy, also adopted from the OHS as kittens. Thank you, Patty, for giving many cats in need a second chance.

Last year, you gave close to 40,000 hours for the animals! We can't thank you enough for your amazing contribution.

• Block off your pet from the front door — they may slip out when you open up for trick-or-treaters. Make sure your pet has a collar, tag and microchip in case they run outside.
• If your pet is sensitive to loud noises, set them up in a quiet, safe space in your home and turn on a radio or TV to provide white noise.
• Keep Halloween candy and open flames out of your pet's reach to avoid an unexpected trip to the veterinarian and to prevent fires.
• Costumes are fun, but make sure wearing a costume doesn't stress out your pet.

As someone who cares, you're probably very familiar with these tips. Help keep more pets safe by sharing this advice with other pet owners!