News

It’s a question that comes up often: what would make someone surrender their pet to the OHS?

Surrender sounds like a scary thing, doesn’t it? It sounds like giving up, failing, or even leaving the pet behind — but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

It may be surprising, but the decision to surrender a pet is often made out of love. Imagine these situations:

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I’ve said it before, but Ottawa is full of generous people who care and give to animals in need. There are a few ways that people show their support. Some make a gift whenever they are able. Others donate monthly. Younger people might run a lemonade stand or host an event at their school for the animals.

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“If we look at the diversity situation today and want to change it, we have to present opportunities to learn about the field and remove the barriers to joining it… We have to let people know they are welcome in the profession.”

• Dr. Lila Miller on encouraging more BIPOC to join the veterinary field

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As the temperature is predicted to plummet tonight and remain cold throughout Friday, the Ottawa Humane Society is warning pet owners about the dangers cold weather can pose to pets — especially cats allowed to roam outdoors.

The OHS is encouraging members of the public who find stray cats in the cold to contact 613-725-3166 ext. 221 to ensure the cat can return home safely or to arrange for the cat to be brought to the OHS. If a cat is in danger, call Ottawa By-law Services at 3-1-1.

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I’m thrilled to announce that last week, we welcomed a dog from Iqaluit into our care and two more arrived yesterday. We work with our partner in Iqaluit to give these dogs a second chance in Ottawa.

In their hometown, these dogs faced an uncertain future. Resources were not available to provide them with the veterinary support they need, and it is likely it would have been very difficult for them to have found a forever home.

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At the Ottawa Humane Society, we never know what condition animals will be in when they come into our care, and in my near 20 years at the OHS, I have seen many things that have broken my heart.

Firefighters, health care workers, police officers, shelter workers, and many other professions witness trauma regularly, as part of their day-to-day jobs.

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People often ask how they can help Ottawa’s animals. Volunteering, adopting, donating or even  working at the OHS are all great ways to help out, but there’s something else you can do that is also invaluable to protecting Ottawa’s animals. You can even do it right at home.

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I’m sorry to say it, but 2022 ended on a sour note for animal welfare in Ontario.

In late 2021, Marineland was charged for using dolphins to perform and entertain without authorization — a criminal offence since 2019.

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“Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one.”

Brad Paisley, American Country Singer/Songwriter

Here at the Ottawa Humane Society, we are always looking to the future. We look to see how we can better serve our community and its animals and people.

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“What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future.”

Agnes M. Pahro

All of us at the Ottawa Humane Society wish you tenderness, courage and hope this Christmas.

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