Ottawa Humane Society Shares How to Help Wildlife in the Spring

April 16, 2026 — The Ottawa Humane Society is reminding community members to keep their distance from wildlife spotted in their neighbourhood. As the weather warms, people are more likely to encounter wildlife. Often, it is best to admire wildlife from afar.

As encounters with wildlife may become more common, this can lead to more cases of concerned community members removing wildlife from its habitat and bringing it to the OHS, even if it does not need their help. Juveniles may appear abandoned, but in fact their mother may be nearby.

“Many animals are not in need of help and may actually be worse off with it, especially juveniles,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “Unless it seems sick or in distress, wildlife often should be left alone.”

Each year, the OHS receives approximately 1,400 sick, injured and orphaned wild animals from Ottawa By-law and Regulatory Services officers and members of the public.

Often, rehabilitation is not an option for wild animals who are vulnerable enough to be caught and brought to the OHS, but whenever possible, the OHS works to transfer suitable animals to its partners in wildlife rehabilitation.

Judging if wildlife needs help:

Wild animals may need help if they show clear signs of distress or danger. These include, but are not limited to:

• Visible injuries, bleeding, or unable to move normally;
• Acting unusually tame, disoriented, or unresponsive; or
• Being in immediate danger (e.g. near a road or predators).

How to prevent unwanted encounters with wildlife:

• Keep dogs on leash unless in an off-leash dog park or enclosed yard: Dogs can seriously injure wildlife or be harmed themselves. Before letting a dog off-leash at a off-leash dog park or in your fenced in backyard, scan the area for wildlife which may have a conflict with your dog.
• Keep cats indoors unless on leash and harness or in the safety of a catio: Outdoor cats impact bird and small animal populations and are at risk from predators.
• Secure garbage, compost, and outdoor pet food. Put waste out on the morning of collection rather than the night before.

The OHS has more information on its website about encounters with wildlife and who to call to help wildlife in need.

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