When we talk about protecting animals, it’s easy to focus on compassion – and rightly so. But compassion alone isn’t enough. Without clear, consistent standards for animal care, even well-intentioned efforts can fall short. That’s why accreditation in animal welfare is so critical: because without it, animals’ lives are at stake.
As I write this, I can’t stop thinking about how close some pets are to losing a home where they are loved.
At the OHS, we help people who are doing everything they can to take care of their pet. They are stretching dollars, skipping meals and making devastating choices just to keep their pets safe and cared for.
You always hear about the first robin of spring, but I prefer measuring the change of seasons by the swell of people out in the community with their dogs. I’m definitely enjoying the spring with my pups, Reggie and Winston, and it reminds me of something I’m always so grateful for: Ottawa is a pet-friendly city.
As Ottawa’s local animal shelter, it’s not uncommon for people to assume that taking in animals, caring for them, and finding them new homes is all the OHS does. Don’t get me wrong, that work alone is an enormous task, but we’re up to a lot more, and the impact it has for the animals is staggering.
Animal welfare has changed a lot in the last 20 years, and these changes have almost always been for the better.
But one thing that’s remained stubbornly the same is attitudes toward surrendering a pet. Too often what is one of the most difficult and heart-wrenching decisions a pet owner could make is wrongly seen as callous — a choice made out of indifference, not compassion.
International Women’s Day is a moment to recognize leadership, resilience and the countless ways women shape our communities. In animal welfare, the leadership of women is impossible to miss...
Our cats, dogs and small animals are an incredible source of comfort every day. The connection we build with our pets makes even the idea of separating from them painful...
I think you’ll agree that life is better with animals. It’s much harder to feel lonely when you share your home with a pet. Having your lap occupied by a cat, rabbit or even a dog who doesn’t quite fit can be a great cure for a long day of stress.
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