19 Kittens, Abandonment and Community
When 19 kittens showed up in a box this week, we were here for them, thanks to you. Consistently, Ottawa shows that we value animals and believe in a better tomorrow for all of them.
I am grateful for the compassion our community showed for the kittens and their support for Ottawa’s homeless animals. This week we’ve been gearing up for our Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run on Sunday, Sept. 28. I’m looking forward to this magical event – when animal lovers of all kinds come together and show their joy for animals while raising support for their care. Ottawa’s love of animals is abundant and clear.
The care Ottawa shows pets is inspiring. As we look to building a more humane and compassionate future for all, I ask that we also look at how we can share compassion and kindness with the other end of the leash.
When any pet is abandoned, one of the first questions that jumps to our mind is: “How could someone do this?”
Some of the possible answers are strikingly sad: they saw no other option; they didn’t know support was available; they thought they were doing the best thing for the animal.
The plain truth is that without speaking to the person, we’ll never know why they decided to abandon the animal. There is no defensible reason to abandon a pet, but I believe it’s exceptionally rare for a person to do so out of malice. Often a story of abandonment suggests someone wanted to love and care for an animal, but their circumstances changed and their options dwindled.
We know the cost of caring for a pet is a top concern for Ottawa’s pet onwers. Just as important as finding homes for pets, is making sure pets and people don’t have to separate in the first place. And at the OHS, we’re working hard to create new supports to help keep pets with a loving family.
When staying together isn’t possible, the OHS is here to help. There is no fee to surrender a pet to the OHS and there is no shame or judgement in surrendering a pet. Choosing to thoughtfully surrender a pet can be the most compassionate decision a pet owner makes.
If you need to give up an animal — no matter the circumstances — please reach out to us for help. The OHS is here for you.
Sharon Miko
President & CEO