In January, I wrote a blog about the Ford government’s introduction of shameful and dangerous Bill 156, the so-called Security from Trespass and Animal Safety Act.
It appeared that the government had, sensibly, backed away from this terrible law, but this week, it decided to proceed to pass this legislation on June 15 without even a reasonable opportunity to hear the voices of Ontarians. Two days of consultations cannot seriously be considered consulting the public.
There is a joke circulating on the internet that with so many people at home during the crisis, the dogs think we have quit our jobs to spend more time with them. The cats think we were fired like the losers they always thought we were. It may not be entirely fair to cats, but it’s pretty funny anyway. My cat Gracie, the cat who must be obeyed, would like nothing more than for me to stay home to pet her all day — at least for the brief periods when she isn’t sleeping.
I always listen to CBC when I’m driving. Last week one of the segments was checking in on Canadians across the country amid the pandemic, some famous, and some just regular Canadians. One gentleman — a newcomer to Canada — was a restaurant owner. He had closed his restaurant, but was continuing to prepare and distribute 300 meals a day to front line workers.
There are many aspects of working at the Ottawa Humane Society that are rewarding, the things that make me happy and make all the work and worry worthwhile.
The happiest moment here at the OHS is when we find a forever home for an animal, a home that is the perfect match, one where she will be loved and cared for.
Throughout this crisis, like I am sure you have, the Ottawa Humane Society been trying to find a balance between over- and under-reacting in our decision-making. Small decisions can have big consequences. Information and the reality of this situation has changed frequently and it has been a challenge to adjust our plans to keep up.
This is perhaps a little-known fact, but today is National Therapy Animal Day. I think this year, this day is particularly relevant, because during this crisis, those of us with pets have recognized that every day is National Therapy Animal Day.
I have had the honour of working with volunteers in every job in my career. People who donate their time and their talent are a special breed and the Ottawa Humane Society’s volunteers are among the very best. This week is National Volunteer Week, and though we have had to adapt or postpone the offerings for this year, we are no less grateful for their tremendous contribution.
As an employee of an essential service, I’m still coming to work every day. Frankly, that suits me, but it’s not possible for everyone. A lot of my friends are working from home and more than a few of them are having trouble adjusting, especially those with children cooped up at home.
“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo.
“So do I, said Galdalf, and so do all who live to see such times. But it is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what we do with the time that is given us.”
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