Each year, thousands of terrific cats, dogs and small animals, through no fault of their own, come through the doors of the Ottawa Humane Society. Their circumstances and stories are varied: some are abandoned by owners who can't, or choose not to provide care, while others are rescued or removed from abusive situations. Other animals are left alone when an owner dies, or moves away, while hundreds of others wander away from home and become lost. Regardless of how these animals come to us, your support helps us give them a second chance at a happy life.

Thanks to you, we were able to find new, forever homes for thousands of animals in 2009. These happy endings motivate and inspire us to continue on in our sometimes difficult work. We want to share with you a few of last year's most memorable adoption stories — and thank you again for everything you've done to help these animals and others in our community.