New Animal Welfare Hub Announced - Ottawa Humane Society

Dec. 11, 2025 — The Ottawa Humane Society announced its plan to open its Community Veterinary Clinic in late 2027 in a former post office building in Vanier. The OHS says they have seen more pets surrendered each year because of the cost of care and the new clinic will provide for income-qualified pet owners who otherwise would not be able to access veterinary care.

“Ottawa has already built a strong safety net for pets,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “But even still there are more animals falling through the cracks. The Community Veterinary Clinic is the next step in further strengthening Ottawa’s total ecosystem of care for animals.”

Building the Community Veterinary Clinic is expected to cost $9.4 million — the OHS is seeking donations and leadership gifts from the community to make the project come to life.

“The clinic will be a hub for animal welfare,” said Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS Chief Veterinarian. “On top of providing subsidized veterinary care, the clinic will also house our preventive and educational programs like wellness clinics, sterilization, pet food bank and dog training programs.”

Yesterday, Ottawa City Council approved rezoning of the property on 258 Durocher for the OHS’s proposed use. The OHS does not own the property yet, but with the successful rezoning, the OHS expects to take ownership in early 2026.

“Nearly every day, a pet owner in Ottawa is faced with a pet expense they cannot afford and they make the incredibly difficult decision to surrender their pet to the OHS,” Miko explained. “Animals arrive at the OHS much too late with veterinary needs that are too far advanced and could have been better helped if treatment had been available. The Community Veterinary Clinic will make more early interventions possible.”

The OHS says it needs to raise about 66% of the funds required to complete the clinic, which it hopes to open by the end of 2027. More information about the upcoming Community Veterinary Clinic is available on the OHS’s website.

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Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Senior Manager: Marketing & Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca