News

The Ottawa Humane Society is urging pet owners to take caution this week as a flash freeze is expected on Friday accompanied by heavy winds and snow, leading into a weekend with the coldest temperatures of the season to date.

“Every year, cats left out in the cold suffer from frostbite and other injuries, and are brought to the OHS,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “A cat’s situation can change quickly in extreme weather — what was once an enjoyable stroll can become a matter of life and death with little warning.”

Read More

Around the holidays, I often start writing up a list of things that I’m grateful for. There are of course the simple things like food and a warm home. My partner and my baby son. Working in a place where I get to connect with people who care so deeply for animals in need.

There’s another list that goes around at the OHS during the holidays — and it’s not quite as happy. It is a list of animals who have been searching for a forever home for longer than most. 

Read More

Last week, Dottie, a badly injured two-year-old Labrador retriever, was found on March Road and brought to the Ottawa Humane Society. Minutes after she arrived, blood started pouring from her mouth.

The OHS veterinary team quickly sedated Dottie and discovered the extent of her wounds. She had suffered multiple bites on her face and legs, and an acrid smell hung around her, suggesting she had been pepper sprayed. She was bathed to clear away the chemical and dried blood.

Read More

What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? Between handmade crafts and cards from my kids, and accessories from my husband that I’ve worn for decades, there are many small things that are very close to my heart.

Read More

Last week, we made a post about how we had welcomed 27 cats into our care in a single day. The story made some waves. Many people shared messages of support for our amazing team, how much they care for cats they haven’t even met, and thanked us for being there for the animals in their time of need. The story was even picked up in the news, making an appearance in the Ottawa Citizen.

I couldn’t be more thankful for all the support. I am grateful to be part of a community that cares so deeply for animals.

Read More

Donations made towards the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS) will be doubled until Tuesday, Nov. 29.

“It’s incredible how our community has rallied to save lives and help complete so many families,” said OHS President & CEO, Sharon Miko. “If you’ve ever thought about donating to help Ottawa’s most vulnerable pets, this is a great time to make a huge difference.”

Read More

You’ve heard of Black Friday and Cyber Monday — opportunities to fill carts virtual and physical with savings, and prep for holiday gift-giving.  

Since you’re reading this and are probably following the OHS, you’ve also likely heard of Giving Tuesday. It’s Black Friday for people who care.

Read More

This weekend, Santa Pet Pics return to the Ottawa Humane Society and Ren’s Pets locations.

From Nov. 19 to Dec. 21, entire families (pets included) can drop in to get festive portraits taken with Santa.

Read More

The issue of homeless cats is one that Ottawa and the Ottawa Humane Society have constantly grappled with. 

I have seen the terrible things that happen to cats left to fend for themselves. Killed by predators, maimed by vehicles, succumbing to the elements, disease and starvation. These cats are often brought to the OHS, but often it is too late.

Read More

Simon, a tuxedo cat, was found wandering the dockyards of Hong Kong in 1948 by Seaman George Hickinbottom, a crew member of the British frigate HMS Amethyst. Simon was very undernourished and unwell, so the young sailor smuggled the cat onto the ship. The crew and officers were happy to have Simon onboard, especially because he was excellent at catching rats on the ship. Eventually, Simon became a mascot for the crew.

Read More