At the Ottawa Humane Society, we never know what condition animals will be in when they come into our care, and in my near 20 years at the OHS, I have seen many things that have broken my heart.
Firefighters, health care workers, police officers, shelter workers, and many other professions witness trauma regularly, as part of their day-to-day jobs.
People often ask how they can help Ottawa’s animals. Volunteering, adopting, donating or even working at the OHS are all great ways to help out, but there’s something else you can do that is also invaluable to protecting Ottawa’s animals. You can even do it right at home.
“Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one.”
Brad Paisley, American Country Singer/Songwriter
Here at the Ottawa Humane Society, we are always looking to the future. We look to see how we can better serve our community and its animals and people.
The Ottawa Humane Society is urging pet owners to take caution this week as a flash freeze is expected on Friday accompanied by heavy winds and snow, leading into a weekend with the coldest temperatures of the season to date.
“Every year, cats left out in the cold suffer from frostbite and other injuries, and are brought to the OHS,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “A cat’s situation can change quickly in extreme weather — what was once an enjoyable stroll can become a matter of life and death with little warning.”
Around the holidays, I often start writing up a list of things that I’m grateful for. There are of course the simple things like food and a warm home. My partner and my baby son. Working in a place where I get to connect with people who care so deeply for animals in need.
There’s another list that goes around at the OHS during the holidays — and it’s not quite as happy. It is a list of animals who have been searching for a forever home for longer than most.
Last week, Dottie, a badly injured two-year-old Labrador retriever, was found on March Road and brought to the Ottawa Humane Society. Minutes after she arrived, blood started pouring from her mouth.
The OHS veterinary team quickly sedated Dottie and discovered the extent of her wounds. She had suffered multiple bites on her face and legs, and an acrid smell hung around her, suggesting she had been pepper sprayed. She was bathed to clear away the chemical and dried blood.
What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? Between handmade crafts and cards from my kids, and accessories from my husband that I’ve worn for decades, there are many small things that are very close to my heart.
Last week, we made a post about how we had welcomed 27 cats into our care in a single day. The story made some waves. Many people shared messages of support for our amazing team, how much they care for cats they haven’t even met, and thanked us for being there for the animals in their time of need. The story was even picked up in the news, making an appearance in the Ottawa Citizen.
I couldn’t be more thankful for all the support. I am grateful to be part of a community that cares so deeply for animals.
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