Local Architect Barry Hobin's Firm Hired

The OHS is very pleased to announce the hiring of Barry Hobin and Associates as the lead architect for our new facility on Hunt Club. The well known local firm has a track record of designing high quality and beautiful public buildings as well as residential projects.

"From the beginning, everyone at the OHS has been excited about this project and what it will mean for the animals. Having Barry Hobin on board just adds to the excitement," comments OHS Executive Director Bruce Roney. "I think that we are all anxious to see what Mr. Hobin will bring to this project."

The firm was hired after a careful review of proposals from six local architects. Hobin's firm was the strongest bid in that they demonstrated an understanding of the needs, brought the best team, and was very competitive in price.

The firm will be the lead architect, and will design the new facility with the assistance of specialist architect George Miers.

Veterinary Hospitals Come Through for the Animals

The Ottawa Humane Society has enjoyed a very long and very strong relationship with local veterinarians and veterinary practices who work with us to help the animals.

The OHS Breaking Ground Building Campaign has demonstrated just how much this positive relationship can benefit Ottawa's animals, as many veterinary practices have come on board to both donate and raise funds for the new facility. To date, Ottawa, Manotick, and Barrhaven Veterinary Hospitals have made significant commitments to the project. Joining them with a pledge have been individual veterinarians, Drs. Sue Kilborn, Greg Varney, Anne Downes, Miriam Boileau, and Steve Batty. Several other practices are considering their pledge and we expect more to come on board in time.

We are all very grateful to the clinics, veterinarians and clinic staff who have demonstrated that they care about the future of Ottawa's animals through their support for the campaign.

Information Evenings Prove Popular

Over the past year, OHS staff have been hosting information evenings for groups of supporters to bring them up to date on the campaign and the building projects. Over a dozen such evenings have been held for life members, volunteers, legacy donors, and other groups.

The popular evenings, hosted by Executive Director Bruce Roney and Building Campaign Manager, Anna Silverman have provided detail on the progress of the project and many of the features that are being considered for the new facility. Included in the presentation are slides of new facilities in Winnipeg and Edmonton that illustrate some of the current and best thinking in animal shelter design.

If you would like to attend an information evening, please contact Anna Silverman at 613-725-3166, ext. 279 or at annas@ottawahumane.ca.

Chef Kurt Waldele to be Honoured in New Facility

Chef Kurt Waldele was one of the most extraordinary and committed supporters of the OHS. For nearly a decade, he volunteered his time and talent to help us, raising close to $750,000 for the animals.

We've created a fund to name the volunteer reception room in our planned new shelter in honour of Kurt. Please help us build this lasting legacy.