Happy Tails – Ontario SPCA and Humane Society https://ontariospca.ca Protecting Animals Since 1873 Fri, 19 Apr 2024 16:06:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.0.3 Northern dog gets a second chance thanks to re-homing partnership https://ontariospca.ca/blog/northern-dog-gets-a-second-chance-thanks-to-re-homing-partnership/ Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:00:13 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=49655 A lack of access to basic animal wellness services, such as veterinarians and spay/neuter services, has contributed to an increase in animal populations across Northern Canada. In many Northern communities, there are more adoptable animals than there are families who can give them homes.  By working together with like-minded organizations and Indigenous communities, the Ontario […]

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A lack of access to basic animal wellness services, such as veterinarians and spay/neuter services, has contributed to an increase in animal populations across Northern Canada. In many Northern communities, there are more adoptable animals than there are families who can give them homes. 

By working together with like-minded organizations and Indigenous communities, the Ontario SPCA is giving Northern animals the second chance they deserve. We’re providing sustainable resources to the North and helping animals to find loving homes. 

Cub’s journey 

Cub had been waiting for a loving home at the Thunder Bay Animal Services for nine months before being transferred into the care of the Ontario SPCA to find a loving home. It wasn’t long before he was adopted. 

“We cannot thank you enough for bringing Cub into our lives,” his adopters wrote in a thank you card. “Cub is truly perfect and gives us more love than we could have imagined. Thank you, again, for all that you do, and for bringing us all together.” 

2023 Northern successes 

We are proud to announce that in 2023, the Ontario SPCA completed eight Northern animal transfers, covering 24,307 kilometers. Through these efforts, we brought 232 animals to our animal centres where they found loving homes. Additionally, we distributed an astounding 232,432 lbs of pet food and supplies to 30 Northern communities, providing over 567,838 meals to furry friends in need. 

Looking ahead 

This year, the Ontario SPCA has plans for additional transfers to help Northern animals, like Cub, find loving families. These animals needing homes will be brought to areas of the province where there are families waiting to adopt. We will also be hosting two spay/neuter and wellness clinics to provide further aid to Northern communities in need of veterinary care for their beloved companion animals. 

 Learn more at ontariospca.ca/communitysupport 

Join our efforts 

The Ontario SPCA does not receive annual government funding and relies on donations to provide programs and services to help animals in need.   

Your donation will help us find loving homes for animals in need, as well as support our ongoing efforts to provide pet food, supplies, and spay/neuter and wellness clinics to underserved Northern communities. To contribute and make a difference, please visit please visit ontariospca.ca/donate 

 

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Isabella’s happy tail https://ontariospca.ca/blog/isabellas-happy-tail/ Thu, 22 Feb 2024 12:00:02 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=48614 Isabella arrived at the Humane Society of Durham Region fearful of everything and everyone.   Coming from a hoarding situation, she was fearful and anxious. With time, patience and lots of love, the animal care team helped Isabella learn to trust again to give her a chance at finding a loving forever home.  The animal care […]

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Isabella arrived at the Humane Society of Durham Region fearful of everything and everyone.  

Coming from a hoarding situation, she was fearful and anxious. With time, patience and lots of love, the animal care team helped Isabella learn to trust again to give her a chance at finding a loving forever home. 

The animal care team spent weeks working with Isabella to increase her confidence, but ultimately realized she would need additional support to come out of her shell. They decided to send Isabella to the Ontario SPCA Provincial Dog Rehabilitation Centre in Peterborough. 

“When she arrived she was extremely shut down,” says Kassie Dickson, Animal Behaviour Coordinator, Provincial Dog Rehabilitation Centre. “She was terrified and huddled in a corner.” 

The care team got to work with a desensitization and counterconditioning program to help Isabella build confidence and trust in new situations. This program targets certain stimuli to systematically change the emotional responses an animal has to things or environments. A key component of training is high value treats –  liver treats were Isabella’s favourite. 

“It was really about Isabella learning to do what other dogs do to help set her up for sucess in finding a home, says Kassie. 

Isabella was in the care of the Provincial Dog Rehabilitation Centre for close to four months. During that time, Kassie says they saw Isabella become more playful and get excited to see people she had formed a bond with. 

The care team knew Isabella would need a home that could offer patience and love as she adjusted to a new environment and new experiences. They found a family that was the perfect fit!  

“I took one look at her and her big brown eyes and I’m like, ‘Yep! Not a problem,’” says Debra , Isabella’s adopter. 

At first, Debra says she couldn’t even look at Isabella without the dog running to her “safe spot” in her crate. However, with patience and time, Debra began to see trust build between them.  

“Now she lets me pet her and she comes to me for love. I’ve let her do it all on her terms,” says Debra. 

Debra has another dog, a mini Australian Shepherd, who normally doesn’t associate much with other dogs. However, sheb and Isabella have become best friends – maybe because shesensed Isabella needed some extra love, Debra wonders. 

“She’ll lick Izzy and she’ll let Izzy sleep next to her on one of the big beds,” says Debra. “Izzy will sometimes play as well. She’s coming along quite well.” 

As Isabella gains confidence, Debra says she’s looking forward to seeing more of her silly and mischievous personality come out. Debra credits Isabella’s transformation to the Ontario SPCA Provincial Dog Rehabilitation Centre, and she’s grateful for the support she has received throughout this process. 

“The people at the SPCA are absolutely wonderful,” Debra says.“They invest their heart and soul in that place and you can tell that they are emotionally invested in these animals. They want them to succeed, and they want them to have forever homes and to be happy.” Debra. 

To learn more about the Ontario SPCA’s Provincial Rehabilitation Program, or to make a donation to change the lives of animals like Isabella, please visit ontariospca.ca/dogrehab 

Watch Isabella’s story!

 

 

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Transformative cleft palate surgery changes life for abandoned puppy https://ontariospca.ca/blog/transformative-cleft-palate-surgery-changes-life-for-abandoned-puppy/ Tue, 20 Feb 2024 12:00:49 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=48618 When animal control services discovered a helpless puppy roaming a parking lot in Ajax, they brought him to the Humane Society of Durham Region for help. As part of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, the HSDR works collaboratively to strengthen and grow the programs and community support services it provides to help animals and the […]

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When animal control services discovered a helpless puppy roaming a parking lot in Ajax, they brought him to the Humane Society of Durham Region for help. As part of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, the HSDR works collaboratively to strengthen and grow the programs and community support services it provides to help animals and the families who love them. 

While the circumstances surrounding how this adorable three-month-old bulldog mix puppy, later named Archie, ended up alone in a parking lot remain unclear, no one came forward to claim him. Perhaps he was abandoned due to his medical needs, as he was born with a cleft palate.  

Understanding cleft palate in dogs 

The palate refers to the roof of the mouth. When a dog has a cleft palate, there is a gap in the middle of the palate, ranging in size from small (a few millimeters) to severe (extending along the entire length of the hard and soft palate). As a result, there is a lack of tissue connection between the mouth and nasal passages. 

Dogs with cleft palates often face difficulties such as coughing or gagging while eating and drinking. This occurs because the food and water pass through the trachea instead of the esophagus. Inhaling food and water may lead to respiratory infections. Early symptoms may include runny nose, persistent coughing, and fever, progressing to lethargy, difficulty breathing, and potentially even death. 

$6,000 surgery and dental work for Archie’s bright future 

The animal care team at the Humane Society of Durham Region scheduled Archie for an appointment with a surgeon to discuss the next steps in the pup’s health journey. The veterinarian confirmed that surgery to correct the medical condition was necessary, along with extensive dental work, to give Archie the best chance at a bright future. The vet expressed optimism for a successful procedure, ideally eliminating the need for ongoing care.  

The estimated cost for Archie’s procedure and follow-up care was $6,000. Though significant, our team knew that moving forward with the veterinarian’s recommendation would give Archie the best chance for a happy and healthy life – something he truly deserves! 

Archie awaits surgery in loving foster-to-adopt home 

At just three months old, Archie was deemed too young to receive the surgery he needed. Fortunately, it did not take long for this special pup to find his perfect family. Placed in their loving home through our “foster-to-adopt” program, Archie thrived with his forever family until reaching the suitable age and weight for the procedure.  

Successful surgery gives Archie his second chance  

While he will need some time to fully recuperate and heal from the procedure, Archie is on his way to living his best life! The surgery to correct his cleft palate was a success! And, has since been officially adopted! 

“As we celebrate Archie’s upcoming transition to the next chapter of his life with his forever family, our team, who has become very attached to this special pup, will undoubtedly miss him dearly,” says Shannon Stephenson, Manager of the Humane Society of Durham Region. Shannon adds, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our veterinary partners, Archie’s foster-to-adopters, and our generous donors whose unwavering support made his transformative medical treatment possible.” 

How you can help 

As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, we rely on the compassion and generosity of individuals like you who make it possible to provide urgently needed care and shelter for thousands of vulnerable animals each year. To make a donation to help change the lives of animals, please visit our website: ontariospca.ca/donate 

Fostering is another great way to help animals in need. If you are interested in giving vulnerable animals the TLC they need to help them find a loving forever home, visit our website to learn more and apply: ontariospca.ca/volunteer/become-a-foster-family/ 

 

 

 

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Husky travels kilometres to return to her new friends at the Ontario SPCA https://ontariospca.ca/blog/husky-travels-kilometres-to-return-to-her-new-friends-at-the-ontario-spca/ Fri, 26 Jan 2024 12:00:59 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=48290 Here at the Ontario SPCA, we do everything we can to create a safe and comfortable place for the animals that come into our care. So when a dog named Ava traveled three kilometres to come back to the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre – and the people who worked so hard to […]

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Here at the Ontario SPCA, we do everything we can to create a safe and comfortable place for the animals that come into our care. So when a dog named Ava traveled three kilometres to come back to the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre – and the people who worked so hard to gain her trust – our team saw first hand the lasting impact they have on the animals who depend on them. 

Ava is a Husky who was brought to the animal centre in Sudbury by a community member looking for support with re-homing. After having puppies, and never having experienced life beyond a whelping box, they wanted more for Ava and turned to us to help find her a home. Ava was shy and needed a lot of extra time with staff to build trust. 

“We all took our time bonding with her while she was with us,” says Leah Earl, Manager of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre. “She had a really loving, really beautiful spirit.” 

Building trust 

With comfortable bedding, new enrichment activities each day, nutritious meals and compassionate staff and volunteers, the goal is to help all animals feel safe and happy while in the care of the Ontario SPCA. Leah says it was clear Ava needed time to adjust to a new environment, regular meals, and outdoor time. 

Searching for Ava 

A few weeks later, Ava was placed in a foster-to-adopt home. Although her new family knew she was a potential flight risk, Ava somehow managed to escape through the fence. Fearing for Ava’s safety, Ontario SPCA staff began searching for her, guided by reported sightings from the community. 

“As I mapped out the sightings I realized she was kind of staying around her old house and our centre. She kept doing circles,” says Leah.  

After several days had passed, the team at the animal centre worried they may never see Ava again. Just as they began preparing for a long weekend of searching, Leah says they saw a smiling Husky face outside the animal centre door. 

“She showed up back at our centre, tail wagging, like she’s just been on a little adventure and she was ready to come home,” says Leah. “Honestly, we all just started crying.” 

Finding the right forever home 

Ava’s foster-to-adopt home recognized that she would not be the right fit for their family. While Ava may not have been the dog for them, a potential adopter named Eric knew she was the perfect companion he had been looking for. He made the four-hour drive from Mississauga to adopt the dog he had fallen in love with online. 

“I saw her smiling face and I instantly fell in love and had to find out for myself what this dog was like, and I guess the rest is history,” says Eric.  

Although Eric says Ava was initially wary, he says she’s becoming more trusting with each passing day. Through love and patience, he’s helping Ava become the best dog she can be.   

“She’s really sweet with me. She’ll approach me with ears down, tail wagging, which I always love about her,” says Eric.  

Would you consider opening your home to an animal in need like Ava? Visit our website to view animals available for adoption today. 

Not in a position to adopt? Please consider making a donation to give animals like Ava the second chance they deserve. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need. Donate today.  

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A purrfect match: FIV positive cat and widow find joy and healing together https://ontariospca.ca/blog/a-purrfect-match-fiv-positive-cat-and-widow-find-joy-and-healing-together/ Mon, 22 Jan 2024 12:00:14 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=48194 Fred’s story is one of joy and mutual healing. No one could have anticipated the instant bond between a loveable orange FIV-positive tabby and a cat-loving widow. But this unlikely duo were clearly meant to be together!  A rough start  Fred arrived at the Ontario SPCA Lennox & Addington Animal Centre mid-December 2022, with bite […]

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Fred’s story is one of joy and mutual healing. No one could have anticipated the instant bond between a loveable orange FIV-positive tabby and a cat-loving widow. But this unlikely duo were clearly meant to be together! 

A rough start 

Fred arrived at the Ontario SPCA Lennox & Addington Animal Centre mid-December 2022, with bite wounds on his body. The care team estimated he was about three years old.  

“Fred came in looking like he’d been roughed up a little bit. So we tested him and discovered he was FIV positive,” says Kristy White, Manager of the Lennox & Addington Animal Centre. 

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), is usually transferred from cats through deep puncture wounds. In addition to having a weakened immune system, White says Fred also had an abscess on his leg that required treatment, and gum disease – a common complication of FIV. Although having the virus doesn’t preclude a full and happy life, a diagnosis can mean a longer time waiting for adoption. But Fred never let that get him down! 

“Fred was the sweetest. He had quite a crackly meow; he sounded like a little grandpa,” says White. “He was super friendly and happy.” 

A kind donor generously paid for Fred’s adotion fee through the Ontario SPCA’s Adopt-it-Forward program to help him find the right home sooner. Even with that helping paw, the animal care team was prepared for a long journey ahead, as FIV positive cats are often overlooked by potential adopters.   Maybe it was fate that brought  Stefanie to the animal centrejust a few weeks after Fred arrived..  

New beginnings 

A year after Stefanie said goodbye to both her husband and her adored cat, only two weeks apart, she says she decided it was time to bring another cat into her life. 

“My approach has always been to have the shelter staff pick out a cat that is unlikely to be adopted. That’s the one I take home, and this time was no different,” Stefanie says. 

She was open to adopting any cat under one condition – if she adopted a male cat she would name him “Fred.”  

“Freddie Bodek was a dear friend of my father, Stefan,” says Stephanie. “They designed and built a tailless glider together in the 50s. My brother and I adored Freddie, and he loved children. He drove cool cars, including a Citroen, and of course, he gave us rides. My partner, George Knight, who loved cats and passed away two years ago, had Alfred for a middle name, so my cat’s name is a tribute to two wonderful and unique characters. Aptly so, since Freddie the cat is a unique character!” 

After being shown into the adoption room and introduced to the cats Stefanie was shown a big orange cat, who just so happened to have the name “Fred” written on his kennel. She says she knew it was fate. 

It was a bittersweet goodbye for the animal care team, who had fallen in love with Fred in his short time with them.  

“It was kind of a meant-to-be situation when Stefanie came in, and we were more than happy to get Fred into his forever home,” says White.  

A happy ending for Fred 

With his voracious appetite, chatty attitude, endless purrs, and entertaining habits, Stefanie says Fred has brought a lot of joy and comfort into her life. Stefanie says she’s built a small deck enclosure and a screened tunnel that will eventually lead to a catio she’s having built so Fred can enjoy the outdoors safely. 

“I can think of nothing more blissful and healing than curling up with a book and a purring cat with velvety paws and face. I truly believe we were meant for each other,” she says.  

There are many animals like Fred across the province waiting for their forever homes. Visit our website to view animals waiting adoption.  

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Lily’s legacy for the animals https://ontariospca.ca/blog/lilys-legacy-for-the-animals/ Mon, 08 Jan 2024 12:00:53 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=48158 Lily and her husband, Mike, have shared a lifelong journey filled with love, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to their four-legged family members. In a heartwarming conversation with Lily, the profound impact of her furry companions on her life and her commitment to the welfare of animals shines through. Lily is a dedicated supporter of […]

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Lily and her husband, Mike, have shared a lifelong journey filled with love, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to their four-legged family members. In a heartwarming conversation with Lily, the profound impact of her furry companions on her life and her commitment to the welfare of animals shines through. Lily is a dedicated supporter of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society and has decided to leave a gift in her will. 

A beautiful tradition of caring for animals in need 

The story of Lily and Mike began in their teenage years, blossoming into a lifelong love story that saw them welcoming animals into their lives as cherished family members. Bandit and Cuddles, their first beloved animals, graced their lives for an impressive 19 years, marking the start of a beautiful tradition of caring for animals in need. 

Unique tales of adoption 

Their furry family expanded over the years, with each addition bringing its own unique tale of adoption. Brandy, a loving pup with kidney issues, became their companion and “princess” for 16 years after the couple welcomed her into their lives after her previous pet parent could no longer care for her.  Not long after, Macy, the calico cat born to a feral mother, found her place within Lily and Mike’s home; she is currently 10 years old. Willy, the one-eyed tabby, was adopted after being found abandoned in a park. He was loved and cared for by Mark and Lily until his passing in 2022. 

Continuation of their mission despite losses 

Despite their losses, Lily and Mike continued their mission by adopting Tucker, a tabby feline, and Toby, a Havanese pup, who were born five days apart. The two formed an inseparable bond and are a pair of mischief-makers that Lily affectionately refers to as “Drop and Destroy.”  

Lily and Mike’s passion for animal welfare stems from their belief in adoption and their profound empathy for creatures facing hardship. This commitment reflects not only bringing an animal home, but also offering a second chance to those in need. 

A lasting legacy for animals 

Lily and Mike have made arrangements in their will to ensure their cherished animals are cared for if something were to happen to them. Additionally, they’ve made a heartfelt decision to leave a lasting legacy to the Ontario SPCA. Lily’s choice to support the organization stands as a testament to her enduring love for animals in need and her desire to provide a voice for them. 

Lily’s legacy is one of compassion, kindness, and unwavering devotion to the well-being of animals. Her story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the enduring impact that love and advocacy has on animals in need. 

Leave your own legacy for animals 

When you remember the Ontario SPCA with a gift in your will, you can continue to help animals  long after you’re gone. 

Visit our website to learn about creating your own legacy for animals and to download your free will-making toolkit today.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Silverado gets the VIP treatment and a fresh start https://ontariospca.ca/blog/silverado-gets-the-vip-treatment-and-a-fresh-start/ Thu, 28 Dec 2023 12:00:27 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=48122 Animals of all types and sizes come into the care of Ontario SPCA and Humane Society animal centres every day. From sweet puppies to frisky cats, we love seeing the different personalities that emerge when an animal is in our care. But sometimes animals arrive who need a little extra help coming out of their […]

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Animals of all types and sizes come into the care of Ontario SPCA and Humane Society animal centres every day. From sweet puppies to frisky cats, we love seeing the different personalities that emerge when an animal is in our care. But sometimes animals arrive who need a little extra help coming out of their shell, or additional support to learn appropriate behaviours before they are ready to find a loving home.  

This was the case for Silverado. When Silverado arrived at the Ontario SPCA York Region Animal Centre he was very nervous and anxious in the shelter environment. The stress was affecting him so much that he needed anxiety medication and was placed in the VIP program to give him more one-on-one support.   

The Ontario SPCA’s VIP program, which stands for Very Important Paws, helps animals like Silverado who need a little extra help. Sometimes it’s a puppy who needs to learn new behaviours, a cat that needs more socialization, or and adult friend who is having challenges adjusting to major changes in their life. Whatever their needs, the VIP program is uniquely tailored to each animal. 

Once Silverado was identified as a good candidate for the VIP program, our team of animal behavioural specialists created an individual plan using evidence-based training and Fear Free® techniques to help reduce his stress and build his trust. The team knew Silverado could overcome his challenges with appropriate enrichment and socialization. 

With Silverado on the path to success, he was matched with a foster family who was committed to helping him be his best self. In his new environment, Silverado was given his own room and the space he needed to adjust at his own pace. After a few weeks, Silverado was exploring his new environment and starting to seek attention from his foster family. 

With the help of the VIP program and Silverado’s foster home, he was finally able to be adopted to his furever family! 

Silverado is now feeling like the king of the castle in his new home. He loves climbing up the 7.5-foot cat tower he shares with his feline family members where he claims his spot at the top of his throne. He spends hours perched there but still likes to come down for love and attention. 

“Willow, one of the other cats, really helped him come out of his shell. They are a real pair those two,” says Jeff, Silverado’s adopter.  

Looking back at Silverado’s journey, this once high-stress cat has come a long way to living his best life.  

The VIP program has allowed Silverado to overcome his behavioural challenges and helped him put his best paw forward. Now he is enjoying the loving home he deserves.  

Visit our website to learn more about the VIP program and how it’s changing the lives of animals. If you’ve been thinking of adopting, visit our adoption page to see animals waiting for loving homes – watch for the VIP icon to meet our most special furry friends! 

Not in a position to adopt? Please consider donating to support the VIP program. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals. Please donate today. 

 

 

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Life-changing surgery gives Vulcan new hope and a new home https://ontariospca.ca/blog/life-changing-surgery-gives-vulcan-new-hope-and-a-new-home/ Mon, 25 Dec 2023 12:00:52 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=48079 It didn’t take long for Vulcan to win the hearts of the staff at the Ontario SPCA Lennox & Addington Animal Centre. The four-year-old German Shepherd mix needed immediate medical attention when he came into our care, and we rallied around him throughout his recovery.   Staff at the animal centre initially noticed Vulcan had something […]

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It didn’t take long for Vulcan to win the hearts of the staff at the Ontario SPCA Lennox & Addington Animal Centre. The four-year-old German Shepherd mix needed immediate medical attention when he came into our care, and we rallied around him throughout his recovery.  

Staff at the animal centre initially noticed Vulcan had something wrong with his gait. His leg joints were also moist from him licking, likely due to pain or discomfort. A veterinary examination and resulting X-rays revealed bilateral hip dysplasia – severe on the right side, and mild remodeling on the left.  

After much consideration, it was determined the best course of action for Vulcan would be a Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO). The FHO surgical procedure aims to restore pain-free mobility to a diseased or damaged hip by removing the head and neck of the femur. 

To really understand hip dysplasia, it’s important to know that the hip joint functions as a ball and socket,” says Mags McLarty, Registered Veterinary Technician at the Lennox & Addington Animal Centre in Napanee.With hip dysplasia, the hip bone (socket) can erode, so the leg bone (femur – the ‘ball’) that’s connected to the hip joint isn’t moving as smoothly as it should, and the two bones rub or grind together. With larger breed dogs, they have a lot of weight to bear, and that’s what makes this condition so painful.” 

Healing journey begins 

Before Vulcan could undergo surgery, however, the team needed to treat his allergic skin condition, as well as an abscessed tooth. Kristy White, Manager of the Lennox & Addington Animal Centre, says the staff really fell in love with him during that time.  

“He was just a big goof and he loved attention, and the staff were more than willing to give it to him,” says White. 

Because Vulcan would tire easily, White says the staff would sit with him in the yard, take him for short walks and play with him in the kiddie pool where he loved to swim and lounge. At the same time, the team searched for a foster or foster-to-adopt home for Vulcan. 

Finding his forever family 

During this time, Alison was having conversations with staff about whether Vulcan would be a good fit for her family. Her family has had German Shepherds for years and she says they were now looking for an adult dog to bring into their home. She says Vulcan stole their hearts right away and they decided to bring him home as a foster-to-adopt. 

“He was just so sweet! His temperament was so delightful. He just kind of won your compassion immediately,” Alison says. 

Mags and the animal care team continued to regularly check in on Vulcan and set him up with physiotherapy appointments. In the meantime, he was adjusting beautifully in his new family. 

“As soon as Dave came in, Vulcan acted like, ‘Here’s my person,’ and immediately jumped on the couch and put his head on his lap,” Alison says, recalling when Vulcan met her husband for the first time.  

A happy ending 

Now officially adopted, Vulcan is finishing his final physiotherapy appointments. He’s now running after squirrels and is a very happy boy. Alison says she wasn’t sure what to expect from the surgery but was thrilled with the results. 

“He totally got his life back,” she says. “He’s such a happy boy.” 

Please consider making a donation to give animals like Vulcan a second chance. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals. Please make a donation today. 

There are also many animals across the province looking for forever homes. If you’re thinking of welcoming an animal into your life, please consider giving a dog like Vulcan a second chance. View adoptable animals here. 

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Puppy with parvovirus fights for life and a second chance https://ontariospca.ca/blog/puppy-with-parvovirus-fights-for-life-and-a-second-chance/ Mon, 04 Dec 2023 12:00:04 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=47778 Sally was only 11 weeks old and fighting for her life when she arrived in the care of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre. Lethargic, dehydrated and emaciated, Sally tested positive for parvovirus, a highly contagious and dangerous virus that largely targets the gastrointestinal system. Puppies are especially vulnerable to this life-threatening virus, […]

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Sally was only 11 weeks old and fighting for her life when she arrived in the care of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre. Lethargic, dehydrated and emaciated, Sally tested positive for parvovirus, a highly contagious and dangerous virus that largely targets the gastrointestinal system. Puppies are especially vulnerable to this life-threatening virus, but unvaccinated adult dogs are at risk as well. 

The team sprang into action immediately to find a veterinary clinic to help save her life. The veterinarian gave Sally IV fluids and monitored her through the night. The animal care team waited anxiously until news came the next day – Sally had made it through the night. 

“She really had a will to live,” says Leah Earl, Manager of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre. “She was on the brink of death when she first came to us.” 

Without treatment, the mortality rate in puppies is very high. The best chance at protection is to vaccinate before potential exposure. “Parvo” is very contagious and can pass through direct contact with other dogs and through feces in the environment (such as on the ground, through clothing, leashes, etc.). Parvovirus can survive in the environment for long periods of time (up to a year!), especially areas that can’t be readily cleaned and disinfected, such as grassy areas. 

Treatment and recovery 

Back in the care of the animal centre, Leah says Sally was isolated to prevent infecting other animals. The animal care team wore full personal protective equipment (PPE) before entering Sally’s room and thoroughly cleaned and disinfected multiple times a day. The staff also administered anti-nausea medications and antibiotics to help prevent secondary infections. 

“Despite being in isolation, Sally was still extremely pleasant. It’s almost as if she knew she beat it. It was really cool to witness,” Leah says. 

Soon Sally was perking up, eating on her own, and her body was beginning to function as it should. At the end of the first week, she tested negative for parvovirus, at which point she started a two-week quarantine countdown. 

“She was a miracle dog,” says Leah. “We have never seen a dog so emaciated turn it around in such a short amount of time, it was just wild.” 

A new home and second chance 

At the end of the two weeks, Elysia and her partner Jordan made the three-hour drive to Sudbury from Barrie to meet Sally. Although Sally’s recent illness was somewhat nerve-wracking for them, Elysia says it only increased their desire to bring her home. 

“We were like, she’s the underdog! She’s going to get through this and we’re going to be her family no matter what,” she says. 

Elysia and Jordan brought Sally home with them that day. They decided “Sally” suited their new puppy, so they held onto the name. Since then, Elysia says they’ve been enjoying Sally’s fun quirks, and seeing her get more comfortable with their family. 

Sally is the seventh dog with parvovirus to be brought to the Sudbury & District Animal Centre this year. The resources and time required to care for these puppies and provide them a second chance is costly. Please consider making a donation to help give animals like Sally a second chance. Donate today. 

There are many animals in our care still waiting to find their forever homes! If you’re considering bringing an animal into your life, think about adopting. Visit our website to view animals currently available for adoption. 

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Doberman puppy fights for his life, and a second chance https://ontariospca.ca/blog/doberman-puppy-fights-for-his-life-and-a-second-chance/ Tue, 28 Nov 2023 12:00:25 +0000 https://ontariospca.ca/?p=47758 Cairo had a very uncertain future when he arrived at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. Thanks to the dedication and hard work of Ontario SPCA staff, a committed veterinary team, and Cairo’s determination, the 10-month-old Doberman puppy now has a second chance in a forever home.  An uncertain future  Cairo came into the care […]

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Cairo had a very uncertain future when he arrived at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. Thanks to the dedication and hard work of Ontario SPCA staff, a committed veterinary team, and Cairo’s determination, the 10-month-old Doberman puppy now has a second chance in a forever home. 

An uncertain future 

Cairo came into the care of the Ontario SPCA Sudbury & District Animal Centre after an ear-cropping surgery that nearly proved fatal – an unnecessary surgery for this sweet pup to endure. 

Cairo has Von Willebrand Disease, which is a type of blood-clotting disorder that resulted in his ears bleeding continuously after the surgery.  

“With this disease, the injuries can heal, but it does take a lot of time and a lot of care,” says Jaclyn Wozniak, manager at the Ontario SPCA Midland & District Animal Centre, where Cairo was transferred to continue his care. 

Cairo’s journey is truly a story of community collaboration. His condition required extensive care at a level the Ontario SPCA team couldn’t provide. A local veterinary team at Twin Lakes Veterinary Hospital in Orillia spoke up and said they would provide the care he needed. We are so grateful they could lead Cairo back to recovery. 

“Even though he was going through so much, and probably also in pain, he was such a happy dog,” says Wozniak. “He really won over the staff’s hearts, and also broke their hearts to see him in this state.” 

A battle for survival 

Daily care for Cairo, especially at the beginning, was very extensive. The animal care team at the Midland & District Animal Centre, along with Ontario SPCA RVT Jocelyn Rutgers, put countless hours into his recovery. This included changing bandages, watching for infections, providing enrichment, and generally working to help him be as comfortable and happy as possible. 

“A really big bond was built. It wasn’t just the staff really loving him; it was him really trusting the staff to make him better,” says Wozniak. 

When it came time to help Cairo find a home, the staff made sure potential adopters had as much information as possible regarding his condition before making a decision. In time, they found Cairo’s family – two nurses who were ready to support and love him unconditionally. 

“We were well aware of his bleeding condition before arriving and did research about what to expect. We are both nurses and are familiar with clotting disorders and felt even more sure he was meant to be ours,” says Victoria Fish, Cairo’s adopter. 

Bittersweet adoption day  

On his “going home day,” Wozniak says they tried to have as many staff present as possible to say goodbye. Wozniak says it was very emotional, but after all the sad tears cried throughout his recovery, it was healing for the staff to cry happy tears seeing him go to his forever home. 

“They all fought very hard for him,” Wozniak says. “His future was not always certain and the staff fought very hard to return him to health and give him a chance at a loving forever home.” 

One staff member, a part-time animal care attendant, even got a tattoo of Cairo. She was proud to show his adopters how deep of an impact Cairo had made on her life. 

“His loving nature is a testament to the staff at Midland,” says Fish. “Seeing him you would never know what he went through, besides his unique ears. I encourage anyone interested in having a pet to visit the SPCA.” 

Happy endings like this are only possible thanks to adopters who open their homes and hearts to animals in need. Would you consider adding a furry friend to your family? Visit our website to see animals currently available for adoption 

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