Hundreds of animals — 858 in fact — came through our doors in August, which is par for the course for a busy, warm summer. What was unusual, however, was the number of multiple animal admissions we encountered. In the past two weeks alone we took in 10 cats at once, some of them pregnant, in a protective care case that involved Ottawa Public Health. Another owner surrender case involved 17 cats, all admitted together. And we worked with an Ottawa couple with 50 cats in their home, agreeing to admit several dozen cats over the coming weeks.

Such is the reality of an open admission shelter, where we take all animals that come to us, regardless of their situation or predicament. It's our obligation, of course, but it comes at a cost. In the two cases mentioned above, we received no admission fees or money to cover the care from either owner, because they simply had none to give. That means the cost of caring for these animals now falls to us. Please click here to make a gift to help us help these animals.

With the municipal elections gearing up for next month, chances are you might encounter a prospective politician canvassing at your door very soon. Before you cast your vote in October, take the time to question local candidates about Ottawa's animals about how they intend to create a better community for all inhabitants. Here are some questions to ask those on the local ballots.

• What will you do to encourage identification and licensing for Ottawa's pets?
• How will you create a safer community for animals?
• Can I count on you to maintain the city's spay and neuter clinic?
• Where do you stand on exotic animal entertainment acts in the city?

Make your vote count for Ottawa's animals on Oct. 25!

By now, most of you have likely heard of the unfortunate decision by the provincial Crown to drop all charges against the Toronto Humane Society. The OSPCA is hoping the decision will be overturned, and is asking concerned citizens to contact their MPP to voice support for this action.

The OHS is an affiliate of the OSPCA, meaning we are independent, with our own board of directors and staff. We pay annual dues to the OSPCA, and have voting rights as a member. The OSPCA provides basic training and accreditation for our inspectors and agents, but the OSPCA in no way provides any funding to help care for Ottawa's animals. All expenses related to the investigation of animal cruelty, including staff salaries, vehicles, and the care of animals removed is borne by us.

Cooper is a five-year-old, neutered male who arrived at the OHS with matted fur and full of porcupine quills! Our clinic staff carefully removed the quills, and had his matted fur sheared off. Cooper may look a little less than glamorous after his makeover, but beneath his shorn exterior is a sweet cat who loves to play with toys and receive lots of pats and head scratches.

Cooper arrived in early June and spent a long time looking for a new home. We profiled him on our blog, on our OHS Facebook page and in the media in an effort to get him adopted. And it paid off! His new owner spotted Cooper's stunning shots online and was smitten. He went to his forever home earlier this week. To learn more about the cats available for adoption, click here.

Are you a teacher who would like the humane society to visit your classroom? Our humane education school program could be the ticket. An OHS volunteer and doggie companion will come to speak about responsible animal ownership, dog bite prevention and more. Click here to find out more.

It's not too late to register for our 22nd annual IAMS Wiggle Waggle Walkathon on Sept. 12! Find out how you can sign up and get started with just the click of a button!

This year's new walk location, on Riverside Drive across from the RA Centre, offers beautiful new walk routes along the water, lots of green space for exhibits and activities, and plenty of free parking.

Workplaces across Ottawa are gearing up for United Way campaigns this fall. Remember that you can direct your gifts to the animals at the OHS. It's easy! Click here to find out how.

Bella is a three-year-old beagle who arrived at the OHS two weeks ago, scared and alone — and very pregnant! Several days into her stay, with no owners to claim her, Bella gave birth to seven tiny puppies in the shelter.

Please help Bella and her new bundles of joy as they spend the next months in the care of an OHS foster home. Your gift will ensure this growing family receives the regular veterinary check-ups, ongoing medical attention, food and love they need until they're all ready for new homes.

What's your favourite way to exercise with your pet?