The OHS Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run is a lot of wonderful things: a great day out, a fun time with your family and your dogs, a chance to see breeds of dogs you never see anywhere else, and a chance to mingle with other caring and committed people in Ottawa. The run is all that and an opportunity to set a personal best.
Like everyone else, the Ottawa Humane Society had to adapt and change on the fly throughout the public health crisis. As things cool down and we’re starting to get a handle on just what life after COVID might look like, we’ve decided to continue with our method for adopting out animals.
Today is a happy day for me. Film is being installed on the windows at the OHS. I know that sounds pretty boring, but to me it’s exciting. You see, this particular film is going to protect wild birds. Let me explain.
Many people have asked me over the years, “What is the difference between a humane society and an SPCA?” The answer is, today, functionally there is no difference. Most humane societies and SPCAs do similar work and have similar missions and mandates. Best I can tell, the names are different for historical reasons; SPCAs were founded solely to protect animals, while humane societies were founded with a broader mandate of protecting animals and children.
Pre-COVID, the OHS might have had 800 or more animals in our care at any one time. Our shelter capacity is in the neighbourhood of 350. We do not euthanize for space.
So how do we accommodate all these animals? In three ways: managed admission, the Pet Adoption Location (PAL) program, and most importantly, fostering.
Like many charities, the Ottawa Humane Society envisions a future in which we aren’t needed anymore. For us that means a compassionate future where every animal leads a happy and healthy life, and pets are cared for in a committed and responsible home.
The OHS is still needed, but you can help put us out of business by being a responsible pet owner and encouraging others to follow.
As Canadians, we generally view our country as the refuge for Black Americans escaping slavery in the U.S. via the Underground Railroad. While that is true, we tend to ignore our own vile history of slavery. For more than two hundred years, slavery happened in Canada too.
I have enjoyed my 22 years at the Ottawa Humane Society so much, I’m surprised there’s not a line up out the door of people wanting to work here. I was thinking that perhaps everyone doesn’t know all the reasons why the OHS is such a great place to be. So, here’s my top 10 list:
After considerable thought and many emotions, I have decided to retire as President & CEO of the Ottawa Humane Society at the end of November. It’s been an incredible journey and honour to serve the animals and our community for more than two decades.
Leaving a job and people I love has been a hard decision to make. But it’s time. There is more to do, but the reality is there will always be more to do.
This website uses cookies to enhance usability and provide you with a more personal experience. By using this website, you agree to our use of cookies as explained in our Privacy Policy.
