April is home to National Volunteer Week, so it’s time to start planning now! From April 20–24, we’ll be celebrating volunteers with a series of training seminars. Please plan to join us for an informative evening that will include a shelter tour and refreshments. A list of topics is below.

Mon, April 20 6–8 p.m. First Aid for Animals
Wed, April 22 6–8 p.m. Emergency Animal Protection Services and Investigations
Thu, April 23, 6–8 p.m. Temperament Testing Dogs (Behaviour vs. Temperament)
Fri, April 24, 6–8 p.m. Cat Colours and Breeds/The Emotional Lives of Cats

Please contact us to reserve a seat by April 14. We hope to see everyone there!

Many 'newbie' volunteers at the OHS will be familiar with the process of obtaining a police check before they can begin work. Most not-for-profits require the checks, and the OHS follows the practice of the humane movement in the U.S. which requires the check only for volunteers who will be in contact with at-risk populations.

We are asking all (XXX all or those who require?XXX) volunteers to submit an up-to-date police check by July 31, 2009. The check is free, and all that’s required is a letter you need to take to the police station. Please contact us and we’ll send you out a letter.

Volunteers have always been the backbone of the OHS and its work to create a better life for Ottawa’s animals. Most of you not only give your time, but also support the animals with monetary gifts. Volunteers are so important to the OHS that it has been decided to create a special recognition area in our planned new facility that will highlight OHS volunteers and, in particular, those who help to create a brighter future for Ottawa’s animals through the Breaking Ground Campaign.

Campaign cabinet member and volunteer Paula Fraser will be working with a select group of OHS volunteers to raise funds by challenging the different volunteer programs (dog walkers, foster volunteers, office volunteers, etc.).

To date, volunteers have contributed over $31,000 of the $250,000 targeted towards our new building campaign — so when your fellow volunteer calls, please answer and help build a brighter future for Ottawa’s animals!

Easter is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to get ready for our holiday bunny snaps! We’re looking for four or five volunteers to help us on each day of our photo shoots. Volunteer positions include:

• Two bunnies (to fill 3-4 hour shifts)
• One photographer assistant
• One registrant
• One photographer printer

We have already had great feedback from last year’s volunteers who are eager to help out again, but are still in desperate need of people to get furry and sport the bunny suit! Please visit our website for dates and times, and let us know if you’re able to help.

Joanne Tremblay has been a volunteer at the OHS for approximately 10 years. She contributes in a big way to our Walkathon every year, and holds a bake sale at her work to raise funds for the animals. One initiative Joanne has been very involved with is fostering dogs with behaviour problems. Joanne and her pack have made a big difference to the lives of countless shelter dogs. Thank you, Joanne, for all you do!

Here's Rosie — fresh from her day at the spa. Rosie was adopted last fall, by Mark and Cheryl, a few weeks after they lost their beloved 13-year-old dog, Bobbie. Rosie is now best friends with BhuBhu, who was adopted two years ago. The two friends love to play tug of war with squeaky toys and jockey for the best spot on an available lap.