Latest News - Ottawa Humane Society

Protecting Pets from Fireworks

The Ottawa Humane Society is preparing for a possible spike in lost dogs as Ottawa prepares for Canada Day celebrations.

“Fireworks and loud noises can frighten calm and confident cats and dogs,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “Animals can become startled, increasing the risk that they may bolt and become lost. We strongly advise families to not take their dogs to firework displays.”

Jun 30, 2023

Canada Day: When More Animals Need Us

We’re just a day away from what is — traditionally, at least — our busiest day of the year at the Ottawa Humane Society: Canada Day. Why Canada Day? There are a few reasons: First, Canada Day is a very busy day helping dogs brought into our care. This is mainly because of the many fireworks displays on July 1: the big one on Parliament Hill, and the many smaller ones throughout the City. The thing is, most dogs are terrified of fireworks.

Jun 30, 2023

Major Victories for Animal Welfare

June has been an excellent month for animal welfare in Canada. Here are some of the big wins:

Bills S-5 and C-47 have passed – two pieces of landmark legislation that ban cosmetic animal testing and trade, and phase out toxic chemical testing on animals

Jun 23, 2023

Puppy with Badly Broken Leg Recovering at Ottawa Humane Society

Angel, a five-month old puppy, was brought to the Ottawa Humane Society after she had badly broken her hind leg.

“Angel was limping on three legs when she first arrived,” said Dr. Mary Thompson, the OHS veterinarian who repaired Angel’s leg. “Our first priority was to make sure she was as comfortable as possible.”

Jun 22, 2023

$150 for a T-Shirt? Homeless Dogs in Desperate Need of Crates

The Ottawa Humane Society is giving away t-shirts for $150 each. No, it’s not a misplaced decimal. The $150 will go towards supplying crates for dogs in need.

“The shirts feature artwork of a pug named Addison who was recently in our care,” said Stephen Smith, OHS manager: communications. “Right now, we have 30 dogs who would seriously benefit from a crate. Buy a shirt, save a dog.”

Jun 16, 2023

The End of Chemical Testing on Animals

Animal welfare in Canada took a huge step forward this week. Bill S-5 passed the Senate, amending the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and creating a clear path for Canada to phase out the cruel and unnecessary practice of chemical testing on animals.

More than 40 countries worldwide have already banned chemical testing on animals, and Canada is committed to joining their ranks.

Jun 16, 2023

Lost in Smoke: The Unseen Victims of Canada’s Forest Fires

Today is clear skies and clean air for Ottawa.

The smog was obviously top of mind this week. After waking up Tuesday morning to a red sky and air thick with the smell of burning pine, it was hard to think about anything else.

Jun 08, 2023

Smog Poses a Risk to Pets — Warns Ottawa Humane Society

As forest fires threaten to affect Ottawa’s air quality throughout the week, the Ottawa Humane Society is urging pet owners to take caution.

“Smog can irritate a pet’s eyes and respiratory tract,” said Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS chief veterinarian. “Older pets and pets with heart or lung conditions may be at greater risk.”

Jun 06, 2023

This Shelter Used AI to Read a Dog’s Mind: The Results are Unbelievable

We used an AI thought-to-text device to read the mind of Chance, our Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run spokesdog, and asked him how excited he is for the 35^th WWWR. Here is the result:

I’m so so so so excited to tell you about my super awesome special day it’s a day all just for me Chance and it’s happening in

Jun 01, 2023

Can Ottawa Write the Future of Animal Welfare?

“There is no power greater for change than a community discovering what it cares about.” ― Margaret Wheatley

Earlier this month, I found myself in a room with hundreds of other animal welfarists, talking about the future for animals in our country. This was the Humane Canada annual conference, and as a movement, we have many reasons to be proud!

May 26, 2023