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Canadian Publications Agreement Number 40659555 Toronto Humane Society Rescue - Page 8

Animal Talk Winter 2009

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Animaltalk is The Toronto Humane Society’s news magazine containing articles and information on animal welfare issues, as well as updates on what’s happening at the Society and special features.

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Page 1: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Canadian Publications Agreement Number 40659555

Toronto HumaneSociety Rescue - Page 8

Page 2: Animal Talk Winter 2009

The Toronto Humane Society11 River St., Toronto ON, M5A 4C2

2802 Victoria Park, Toronto ON, M2J 4A8

Tel: 416.392.2273 Fax: 416.392.9978

email: [email protected]

website: www.torontohumanesociety.com

Canadian Charitable Registration Number 11925 9513 RR0001

Society OfficersTim Trow, President

Bob Hambley, Secretary-Treasurer

Joan Milne, Vice-President

Carol Lupovich, Vice-President

Board of DirectorsStephen Dooley Carol Lupovich

Bob Hambley Patricia McIlhone

Brenda Hind Joan Milne

Sandi Hudson Delores Qasim

Pam Inglis Tim Trow

Alan Johnson Al Tweten

Valerie Jones Bud Walters

Animaltalk is distributed free of charge to

approximately 55,000 Society members and

financial contributors.

ISSN 1192-4861

Cover from left to right: Will Robinson, Manuela Urlea,

Christian Lewin, Tre Smith, Dr. Steve Sheridan,

Don Smith (not present: Surinder Birdi)

A Publication for the Friends of the Toronto Humane Society

Winter 2009 IssueCover Story

Toronto Humane Society Rescue 8

Features

Nina 4

Whatever it Takes Update 26

Get e-volved 22

Tre-rific Advice 6

Membership 18

The Importance of Life 28

Heartworm Health Crisis 7

Shelter

Wildly Happy Endings 12

Wiggles The Pig Update 21

Adopt ME! 23

Staff Profile 24

Paws in the Park 14

Thanks to the Kids 35

Winter 2009Animaltalk2

Page 3: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 3

This is an exciting issue of

Animaltalk, beginning

with the dramatic cover pic-

ture of Toronto Humane

Society Rescue.

Our officers are coura-

geous first-responders in

every sense. Day or night,

in any weather, they are on

the streets, at fires and dis-

asters. Where there is vio-

lence they stand up to bul-

lies and abusers.

I can think of no finer role

models for young women

and men contemplating a

career of public service than

Toronto Humane Society

Rescue Officers.

It’s sobering to realize how

badly our rescue program is

needed. Kittens crying in

dumpsters, dogs turned into

the streets when they become

old and sick, cats left to die in

empty apartments when the

lease is up, these stories are

far too common.

And in Toronto, there is

only our own Toronto

Humane Society welcoming

and providing homes for the

animals day and night.

Thankfully, The Toronto

Humane Society is strong

and enduring. It begins with

the support of 80,000 donors

who give generously to pro-

vide the services delivered by

the hundreds of staff and vol-

unteers at the Society. Our

good work so far in 2009

has attracted 1.6 million

supporters to the website.

Through our weekly e-blast,

30,000 people keep abreast

of what we do to help.

This magazine is mailed and

read in over 55,000 homes

that support our mission. I

hope you to enjoy this issue

of Animaltalk.

If you are pleased with

what you read, I hope that

you will step up step up to

make a donation to The

Toronto Humane Society. It

is only with your support

that we will keep our officers

on the road and pay for our

other animal care programs.

Thank you.

The animals need your supportMessage from the President

Tim Trow, President

Surinder Birdi in Action

Page 4: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk4

Nina was found in a dumpster early on a Sunday morning.

A good samaritan heard her crying and found her trapped

in the bottom of the bin and unable to get out. She had been

abandoned without food or water.

One year old, we believe that Nina was someone’s pet,

dumped when she was no longer a puppy and the family did

not want her anymore. Nina is extremely friendly, outgoing and

loves people and affection.

It’s horrible that someone would leave this poor innocent

animal trapped and abandoned to fend for herself. If someone

hadn’t happened to come along, Nina could have been there

for days and died.

The Toronto Sun ran several high profile stories about this

rescued pup and we were fortunate to get dozens of applica-

tions for her adoption. Nina is now in a new home and is

receiving all the love and attention she could want!

New Home for Nina

Nina

Nina

Page 5: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 5

Page 6: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk6

My wife Paola and I

were recently blessed

with the birth of our daugh-

ter, Victoria. Like all new

parents, we wanted Victoria

to learn to love our cat and

two dogs, but we also want-

ed to ensure her safety.

We had, in fact, begun to

address our concerns togeth-

er well before the arrival of

our little one.

Animals are very smart,

they could see and sense the

changes Paola was going

through during her pregnan-

cy. I think it is important to

acknowledge this with your

pets, starting by letting your

cat or dog come close and

examine the new mom’s

growing belly. This interac-

tion will help pets under-

stand and be ready for the

approaching change. Keep in

mind that this is also a stress-

ful and confusing time for

your pets so try and show

them extra love and attention

so they can begin to associate

this change as a positive one.

When the baby is born

you will be spending a lot of

time at the hospital. If possi-

ble, have someone your pets

know come by and spend

some time with them to

reduce any feelings of aban-

donment or separation anxi-

ety. Putting a worn sweat-

shirt in their sleeping area

will help them when you

aren’t there. A great condi-

tioning tool is a receiving

blanket with the scent of

your newborn. Let your pet

smell it, examine it and even

sleep with it. Once your

baby comes home, the fami-

lar scent will drastically

reduce any feelings of fear,

jealousy or uncertainty.

A common concern is that

a pet may attack a child,

whether out of fear, territorial

reasons, or simply accidental-

ly. This is a very serious and

real issue. Only you know

your pet, but always keep in

mind that even though your

animal has never been aggres-

sive in the past, there could

be a first time.

It is imperative that you

take it slowly and observe

your pet’s behaviour in the

days, weeks and months

before you even consider

any close interaction. This

applies not only to dogs but

to cats as well. Even though

cats are small and less of a

threat, they can cause seri-

ous injury from a bite or a

swipe of their claw.

During this “feeling out”

period keep a close eye on

your pet for any tell-tale signs

of aggression, jealousy or

change in behaviour.

Remember, give your pet lots

of love and attention so that

your pet doesn’t see the new

addition as a threat. If, and

when, you feel the time is

right to, play it safely and be

gradual. First, try having

both your pet and your baby

Introducing New Family Members to Pets

Tre-rific Adviceby Tre Smith

Tre Smith

Trixxi, Victoria, Sid

Page 7: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 7

Recently, veterinarians have

made the public aware of

dogs from the Southern United

States being imported into the

province and an alarming

increase in heartworm in

Ontario. The Southern US has

high incidents of heartworm in

dogs. Veterinarians believe these

animals did not receive appropriate test-

ing before entering Canada. The

American Heartworm Society recommends

three negative test results for heartworm and

most of these animals only received one. This

crisis will not be transitory because, in addition

to spreading to other dogs, heartworm can spread to

wildlife such as wolves, coyotes, foxes and raccoons.

Sadly it appears that heartworm will be prevalent in

Ontario on a long term basis.

The Hamilton Academy of Veterinary Medicine (HAVM)

and the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA)

have issued an urgent call to

action to combat the heart-

worm crisis in Ontario.

The Toronto Humane

Society has written to the Ontario

Minister of Agriculture, Food and

Rural Affairs, the Hon. Leona Dombrowsky,

to request that the Cheif Veterinarian of

Ontario, Dr. Deb Stark, launch a public inquiry

into the cause of the heartworm epidemic and make

recommendations as to the best course of action to take to

protect Ontario’s pets and wildlife.

We urge you to keep up to date on the crisis by visiting

torontohumanesociety.com frequently.

Heartworm Health Crisis in Ontario

Introducing New Family Members to Pets

in the same room with one

person holding the baby and

another holding your pet.

Watch for any negative signs,

while at the same time pro-

viding reassurance and prais-

ing toward your pet.

Overtime, bring them closer

together, always monitoring

your pet’s behaviour.

When you feel the time is

right, bring your child feet

first, and continuously

praise and monitor your pet.

I personally waited 4-5

months before this stage.

When the right day arrived,

we were very pleased that

the cat and two dogs turned

out to be very loving, caring

and gentle towards Victoria.

As Victoria grows, she will

become more and more

interested in our pets and it

may take a while before she

can grasp the concept that

they are living, breathing ani-

mals. Victoria has started to

reach out to them, chase

them and even grab at their

ears. We have taught her to

be “gentle” with our pets and

have shown her the “nice”

way to touch and interact

with them. Kids will be kids;

they will poke, slap and pull

at things, so keep a close eye

on your children and pets to

make sure they play “safely”.

Additionally, as your child

begins to crawl and walk, he

or she will most likely head

over to your pets “turf”,

where they sleep, keep toys

and eat. Watch for territorial,

food or toy or possessiveness

or other signs of concern.

The calmest of dogs can turn

in a split second if they have

any of these traits.

In addition to behaviour,

parents need to be alert to

possible allergic reactions.

At first don’t let your pets

come into your newborn’s

room even if the baby isn’t

there. There is always the

possibility that your child is

severely allergic to one or

more of your pets and you

don’t want to find this out

with an emergency trip to

the hospital. Speak with

your doctor about symptoms

and signs you should be

looking for in case your baby

does have pet allergies. These

steps have worked well for

my family and I hope they

do for you as well.

Have a great winter and

love your pets!!!

Page 8: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk8

Animal Rescue

Toronto Humane Society Rescue‘We help all animals’. That is our motto. And when animals need

our help, Toronto Humane Society Rescue is there to respond.

Tre Smith Dr. Steve Sheridan

Page 9: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 9

Toronto Humane Society

Animal Rescue was

formed in early 2006. The

animals needed a dedicated

group to work for them

every day to look out for

their interests.

The Toronto Humane

Society rescue team is solely funded through the generous

donations of supporters of The Toronto Humane Society

since we receive no financial support from government. For

our first responders animals are the priority. We are

extremely thankful to have thousands of supporters of the

Society and our work, and because of this support, we are

able to have the rescue team in place.

Answering over 1200 calls in 2008, Toronto Humane

Society Animal Rescue is active every day helping animals.

First responders are both proactive and respond to calls.

Every call that comes in is evaluated and prioritized to

determine the response needed. Sometimes telephone

counselling is appropriate; other times an emergency call is

needed and officers are dispatched immediately.

Rescue Officers work closely with the experienced and

skilled telephone answering staff at The Toronto Humane

Society. They work with other agencies in Toronto and the

GTA in many cases for, police, fire fighters, paramedics, the

Red Cross, and social agencies, The Toronto Humane Society

is the key contact in a situation involving an animal. Because

of your support we are there - the first responders on site to

Animal Rescue

Dog living in deplorable conditions before rescue

Kittens rescued from a dumpster

Tre Smith brings rescued dog into shelterTre Smith rescues dog from rooftop

Page 10: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk10

“Dede is an elderly 17 yr old collie cross whose owner was hospital-

ized and no one was able to care for her. I received the call and visit-

ed the owner in the hospital and quickly realized she most likely will

not be returning home. I got permission from Dede’s owner to enter

her home and remove Dede to bring her to the shelter for care and

housing. Dede has now been adopted to a wonderful new home with

another dog for companionship.”

“Kya was brought into The Toronto Humane Society by police because

her owner was seen abusing her. He was witnessed by police kicking

and hitting the dog in the face in front of children in a west-end park.

Included in this group of children were his own kids who were begging

him to stop. Police stopped the abuse, seized the animal, and charged

the owner. The suspect surrendered the animal to the care of The

Toronto Humane Society. Kya is currently available for adoption to her

new forever home.”

Tre talks about Dede

Manuela tells about an abused dog

Animal Rescue

“One of my most memorable animal rescue cases involved the plight

of a young Dachshund named Daisy. The Department of Public Health

found Daisy living in deplorable conditions. The Social Worker who

made the report to the THS advised that conditions in the home were

the worst she had ever seen in 30 years. A protective hazardous mate-

rial suit needed to be worn before entering the house because of the

filth and poor air quality. Inside the home, I discovered Daisy, a help-

less little soul who was the most pitiful, sorrowful creature I had ever

seen. She had no bedding, no food and no water. I immediately

rushed her back to The Toronto Humane Society where she was

assessed by our vets and given nourishment and fluids. After receiv-

ing all her vaccinations, de-worming, de-fleaing, a medicated bath and

a thorough health check, Daisy was soon adopted to a loving home.”

Christian rescues Daisy

Page 11: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 11

“A young puppy was found abandoned in the Riverdale area of Toronto.

His paws were very cold and he was lethargic and covered in fleas. It was

clear that this animal was not appropriately cared for in his former home.

The puppy had severe pneumonia, was hypothermic, had very low blood

sugar, and problems breathing. At the shelter, the veterinarians immedi-

ately began providing emergency care. He was placed in a nebulizer and

on an IV in our veterinary hospital in an attempt to save his life. Tragically

and despite all medical efforts we were unsuccessful in saving the animal.

His condition was too severe and he passed away a few hours later.”

Surinder remembers a case of neglect

Animal Rescue

I was called to the west end of the city about two dogs that were

living in poor conditions. I arrived at the house and we were not

allowed entry. I left to get the help of Toronto Police. Inside we

found the one dog, Tar, living in the front bedroom in his own

feces. Another dog Imperious was in another room at the back of

the house. I removed the dogs one by one and loaded them into

the rescue van. After explaining to the owner why we were remov-

ing his dogs, we took the dogs back to The Toronto Humane

Society for evaluation. Tar and Imperious were both adopted out

to loving forever homes in the GTA. It is situations like this that

make me proud to be an investigator for the Toronto Humane

Society knowing that we can take animals from bad situations and

help them to find their forever homes.”

“I have been working for The Toronto Humane Society for close to

a year now while I was studying investigative sciences and police

studies at Seneca College. After completion of my studies, I recent-

ly became a proud member of Toronto Humane Society Rescue. I

have had the opportunity of releasing wildlife, and responding to

calls. My goal as part of Toronto Humane Society Rescue is try to

improve the lives of every animal I encounter.”

Will rescues Tar and Imperious

Introducing Don

Page 12: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk12

Wildlife Recap

Wildly Happy Endings

Page 13: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 13

Wildlife Recap

This pretty fawn arrived after being found in the middle of a road in North

Durham Region. She was very scared when she first arrived, but the wildlife

staff prepared special milk for her and fed her until she could be transferred

to a wildlife sanctuary with lots of space for her to run and learn how to be a

deer. She has now been released back to where she was found, hopefully to

reunite with her herd.

This wonderful raccoon came to us when he was only a couple of days

old. We bottle-fed him and raised him until he was old enough to be

released at four months. On a very clear night, he was released back into

the wild, to the same place he was found, to reunite with his family there.

A young peregrine falcon came in after falling from his nest on top of the King

Edward Hotel in downtown Toronto. We fed him and let him recover from the

shock. As he had no major injuries, he was soon released by being placed

back on the top of the building. As soon as he came out of his carrier, he let

out a cry, which was immediately answered by an adult male, his father, who

swooped down to his baby. Jiha, a Supervisor at The Toronto Humane Society,

who was there, reports that reuniting this family was magical.

This snapping turtle who is about 25 years old came in after being hit by

a car. He had a damaged shell as well as a crushed jaw. Our veterinarians

wired his jaw back together and treated his injuries. After a long recupera-

tion, his jaw healed and he was ready to be released. Things worked out

perfectly because he was ready to be released before hibernation season,

allowing him to settle himself in for the winter. As the snapping turtle

touched the water in a lake that he knew, he was so happy he didn’t wait

a second before swimming and playing in the water.

The loon in the picture was brought in after landing in the middle of

Highway 407 while migrating south for the winter. As often happens with

loons, she mistook the highway as a waterway and tried to land. Loons’ legs

are positioned very far back on their bodies so they can swim and dive as

well as they do. Unfortunately, this means that they cannot walk on land,

nor can they take off from the ground. Once on the highway, she was

marooned until a very brave citizen picked her up and brought her to THS.

When examined, she amazingly had only some minor scrapes, and we were

able to release her almost immediately to continue her migration. When

the day came, and she was set free in the water, we knew she was in her

element as she began diving and swimming very happily.

Page 14: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk14

On Sunday, October 4th, fellow animal lovers joined together and

dedicated their morning walk to support the over 10,000 sick, injured,

lost and abandoned animals cared for every year by The Toronto Humane

Society. For the first time ever, Toronto Humane Society’s new Paws In

The Park was celebrated not just in one location but throughout the GTA

in local parks, trails and neighborhoods. The animals friends were exceed-

ingly generous and we are so thrilled to have surpassed our fundraising

goal for the walk. We are already planning PAWS IN THE PARK™ 2010, and

hope you will sign up next year as well! Visit us at www.pawsinthepark.com.

Paws in the Park™

Page 15: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 15

Page 16: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk16

From the Heart

We would like to thank Karina Zorn for holding a lovely sunset jazz concert for The TorontoHumane Society on Sunday, September 20th at the Palais Royale. It was a wonderful event namedFrom The Heart which featured jazz vocalist Karina Zorn as well as a group of talented jazz musi-cians - all of whom gave their time for this fundraiser to help the animals cared for by The TorontoHumane Society. On behalf of the animals, thank you Karina!

Thank you to Karina Zorn

Karina Zorn Mark Climie-Elliott, Tim Trow thank Karina

Page 17: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 17

Autumnat 11 River St.

Page 18: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk18

When you finish reading this issue of Animaltalk, please help the animals

one more time by filling out the membership form attached here.

You may not now be a member, even if you are a donor. (Under Society by-laws,

donors are not automatically members.) Even though you may have sent in finan-

cial support or even if you send in a donation regularly, unless you have a mem-

bership card, you are not a member. (If you already have a membership card,

please ignore this request. You can be assured that your membership is in full

Membership

Join Up as a MemberSpecial Request from the Board of Directors

Membership Protocol

The primary reason for signing up as a member is that the animals need you.

They need the strength of numbers when The Toronto Humane Society speaks

up for the animals. We have spoken up against the seal hunt, the killing of

monkeys by the federal government in their shadowy testing lab in Winnipeg,

the Calgary Stampede, the whipping and other abuse of tourist carriage horses,

and the puny veterinary budget and shameful killing of animals in Toronto

municipal pounds.

Why Be a Member?

The duties and responsibilities of members are both simple and vital.

Members need to read Animaltalk and visit the website from time to time to

keep informed of Society affairs. They need to weigh what is being achieved

and be prepared to question the board of directors to keep it on its toes.

Once a year, members need to step forward to elect the board of directors,

Duties and Responsibilities of Members

Page 19: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 19

force and effect until the membership secretary writes to you to tell you it is

time for its renewal.)

Animaltalk is now on-line at www.torontohumanesociety.com For those who

keep in touch by reading Animaltalk on the website, you can alternatively ask for

a membership form to be sent to you from there.

For information on membership, please feel free to call the membership secretary

at 416 392 2273, ext. 2117.

The other reason to become a member is to support other volunteers.

Many other charities can do their job with professional and paid staff

alone. But because there are so many animals needing care at the Society,

volunteers are part of the animals’ care network. We depend on foster par-

ents, dog walkers and kitten bottle-feeders at the shelter every day of the

week. These good people need the strength of a broad community mem-

bership behind them.

appoint auditors and approve the financial statements at the Annual

General Meeting.

Your board of directors respectfully asks you to assume the duties and

responsibilities of membership. Please become part of a vibrant Society

electorate for the animals’ sake.

Membership

Page 20: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk20

A Message From Ted:

Hi everyone, it’s me Ted, I’m sorry for taking solong to write but I have been busy settling inwith my new family. I would like to thank youfor taking such good care of me when I was atthe Toronto Humane Society and also for find-ing me a great home. I am one lucky dog, mynew family and friends take really good care ofme - in fact, they spoil me rotten.

Monday to Friday is pretty routine: playing ballin the backyard, walks to the park a couple timesa day and just relaxing. When I go for walks tothe park, I am using my ‘bad’ leg a lot more andmy muscles are starting to build up. If I lie downon that side for too long it becomes a little bit stiff,but it’s getting better every day.

My mom works from home so I always have com-pany around. Then comes Friday afternoon and wepack up the truck and head out for a two hourdrive north to the cottage. It’s great there, I get tochase balls, Frisbees and other toys. I really loveplaying in the lake; in fact, sometimes I just goand sit in the lake waiting for someone to comeand play with me.

I look forward to coming back soon, but only fora visit!

Love Ted!

Happy Tail

Ted

Ted

Ted

Page 21: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 21

Toronto Humane Society

Senior Agent Tre Smith

transported Wiggles to the

Painted Rock Animal Farm

& Sanctuary in Tottenham

in late summer. Wiggles was

delighted to be placed in

such an ideal environment.

She enjoyed the fresh coun-

try air as well as being

around the other pigs and

farm animals.

Wiggles, is the little

piglet found injured on

the side of the 401 in late

May after falling from a

truck. Wiggles had surgery

to repair her leg and

spent about two months

recovering at The Toronto

Humane Society.

The Painted Rock Animal

Sanctuary has rescued over

100 animals from across

Ontario including other

pigs. The Toronto Humane

Society has taken animals

to the Sanctuary before and

we are pleased to be able to

have found such a perfect

fit for Wiggles.

"Just wanted to let you

know that Wiggles is doing

great, she has a wonderful

personality and we fell in

love with her immediately.

Her new best friend is

Bilbo, our Boston Terrier.

They love to play and chase

each other around, I think

it's because they are so close

in size and both have such

high energy that they make

perfect pals.

Feel free to check in on

her anytime you'd like."

Best Regards, Laura

Wiggles UpdateIdeal Home for Wiggles

Laura, Wiggles and Barry Wiggles staying close to Laura

Wiggles at Her new Home

Page 22: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk22

Page 23: Animal Talk Winter 2009

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Winter 2009Animaltalk 23

SelinaSelina is a 13 year old female/spayed German

Shepherd mix. She is a very dominant dog, who

has had a hard life and sometimes does not want

to be with other dogs or humans. Once she bonds

with you, she will be a lovely companion, but it will

take extreme patience and experience. She will do

well in a home with lots of space, and not a lot of

visitors. Please give this dog a new forever home

to live out her twilight years.

MarblesMarbles is a sweet 6 year old spayed female

domestic medium hair cat. Her previous owner

said that she was born blind. She came to us with

extreme glaucoma, which was causing her pain

and her eyes had to be removed. Marbles is now

ready for her forever home. She is a happy, ener-

getic, and social girl. Having no vision hasn’t

affected her confidence one bit! She will be hap-

piest in a quiet home with no young children or

other pets, and would adapt quickly to a smaller

space such as an apartment or condo.

Adopt Me!

Page 24: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk24

Staff ProfileLaura HendySenior Administrator at The Toronto Humane Society

In charge of adoptions, records and admissions, Laura

is an integral part of the shelter’s daily operations.

Laura enjoys working with the animals and consid-

ers herself ‘blessed’ to work at the Society. She is

deeply committed to the mission of The Toronto

Humane Society to help all animals and believes that

there is an owner out there for every pet that comes

through our doors.

Laura grew up in Oakville where she always

had dogs and cats around the house. Laura attended

Wilfrid Laurier University and has a degree in

Sociology and Psychology. Her education and experi-

ence give her a unique ability to assess adopters and

determine the best pet match for them and their

lifestyle and personality.

Laura currently has four pets (2 dogs and 2 cats) in

her home, including Kacee with whom she bonded at

the Society and adopted as a permanent pet.

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Pepper was recently adopted from The TorontoHumane Society – we are pleased to report that heis doing very well in his new home.

Pepper’s new home is also home to 2 cats but theyhave decided to tolerate Pepper who is actuallyvery timid around them. Pepper enjoys lots oflong walks in local parks and by the water.

Pepper’s new owners say he is a great addition to their lives andthat our staff’s recommendation was perfect for them. He is described as smart, obedient, fun and heloves affection. They are so happy he picked them and they were able to offer a loving home.

Happy Tail

Pepper

Winter 2009Animaltalk 25

“Almost ten years ago to the day, my wife and I walked into

the THS and adopted a German Wirehaired Pointer. We

renamed her Ellie May, to go along with our Jethro, whom we

had adopted from you five years earlier.

We took Ellie May up to our home in Caledon where she

proceeded to drive us crazy daily. We gave her a farm and

fields on which she could run to her heart's content, along

with other dogs and cats.

Our baby girl died on Tuesday, October 13th, when we had

to euthanize her to stop the pain from her bone cancer.

I wanted to send along a message to thank you for giving

us ten years of madly insane bliss. Ellie gave us unconditional

love and was our protector. We are truly lucky for finding her

at your shelter. We feel truly fortunate for the experience.

Keep up the good work, and our heart goes out to all of your

current guests in their quest to find their adoptive families.”

Ellie May: In MemoriumRemebering our Pets

Ellie May

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Whatever it Takes

Updates on Smokey & Boy LondonSmokeySmokey is a 10 year old male American Staffordshire Terrier

mix. He came into The Toronto Humane Society in 2007

after living with a homeless person who became unable to

care for him. When he came into the shelter, he had severe

allergies which caused him to lose fur and break out in

hives. In addition, he had a hyperthyroid condition. Toronto

Humane Society staff fostered Smokey, which helped his

medical conditions. Smokey was seen in the summer issue

of Animaltalk by George, who came down to the shelter to

meet him. It was a perfect match and Smokey is now in his

forever home. His skin condition has cleared up and he is a

perfectly happy and healthy loving family pet.

Boy LondonAfter being featured in the last edition of Animaltalk where

his new owner read about him, Boy London was wel-

comed into her home. Boy London is an extremely friend-

ly and outgoing cat. He is paralyzed from the waist down

but that does not stop him from being very mobile and

sneaky. Staff and volunteers are constantly amazed at his

speed and agility. We are thrilled that Boy London, despite

his medical condition, found his perfect match.

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The Fall Adopt-a-thon a Great Success.Many thanks to all those who came out to offer the animals a home.

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Winter 2009Animaltalk28

The reason we rescue and care for lost and abandoned

animals is saving their lives and providing a second

chance. In Ontario we can do better to meet this goal.

Below, the statistics we have received under municipal

Freedom of Information Legislation support this conclusion

all too clearly. As a province, we need to revisit and improve

our policies and procedures that currently leave countless

animals dead. The animals themselves, their friends and tax-

payers deserve better.

At The Toronto Humane Society we are proud to pro-

vide a level of care where animals are not euthanized for

‘lack of space’ or for other correctable grounds, but

instead all animals, including sick or injured ones, are

treated and given the care they need.

Municipal Shelter Statistics

The Importa

Statistics reproduced in the graph are as reported by municipalities under Municipal Freedom of Information and Protectio

Page 29: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 29

Municipal Shelter Statistics

The Toronto Humane Society has tackled the challenge

of saving lives in many ways. We were the first to intro-

duce a foster care program, the first to have a kitten nurs-

ery, and the leader with a fully staffed and operational

veterinary hospital. Last year, we pioneered a stand-alone

adoption centre in the city which has seen over 1000

adoptions in just over a year. We are open 365 days a

year, including Sundays and holidays, to take in animals

and find them new forever homes. We continue to inno-

vate in new ways, for example, with our cutting edge neb-

ulizer program.

We do everything we can to go the distance. We call it

‘Whatever it Takes’.

nce of Life

on of Privacy Act (MFIPPA)

Page 30: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk30

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In February 2009 we dropped into 11 River St.thinking we would like to adopt a small dog.Instead we fell in love with a three-legged catnamed Ash, now named Luke..

We were told by your vet that Luke was neglect-ed by his original owner. When he arrived at11 River St., he had many health problems tocontend with: worms, mites in his ears, fleas and a very badlyinfected leg that later had to be amputated. It broke my heart to see how much he had suffered.

We had to wait for a week to make sure he was ready for adoption, but we knew we were the rightparents for him and that he would never again be neglected or unloved.

We took Luke home on February 19th and since that time we have never had a moment of misgiv-ing about our decision.

Luke is a delightful fellow – loves to communicate, and has a very inquisitive personality. He is a bigorange tabby, with beautiful markings and a gorgeous long striped tail. During his first few days atour home, we were worried that he might not manage the hardwood floors and stairs too well, giventhat he was compromised by missing a limb – but we were wrong. Very quickly he was racing up anddown the stairs, checking out each room and making friends with our lady of the house, our catLucy. Although Lucy did not feel the same at the beginning, she now tolerates him and will touchnoses with him – on occasion.

Luke is fastidious about his grooming and manages quite well with one front paw and loves to bebrushed every day.

Our vet calls him Lucky Luke – but I think we are the lucky ones to be fortunate enough to have sucha delightful little fellow who charms us tremendously and shows us that all God’s creatures areworth saving.

Marie

Happy Tail

Luke

Winter 2009Animaltalk 31

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Winter 2009Animaltalk32

Alexandra Bucur

Arkady Silverman

Buzz Silverman

David Bond

Dr. Leslie Nickell

Elizabeth Pappas

George & Mark Oudesluys-Monk

Gillian & Paul Smith

Ian Fisher

Irene Fergus

Joseph Yeung & Ada Poon

Katya Jacobson

Linda Pellowe

Mark & George Oudesluys Monk

Maya

Mr. Maurice R. Cooke

Mr. Bryan Roach and Mrs. Dorothy Milne

Mrs. Suzana Lyla Vlaovic

Ms. Andrea Hopson

Ms. Elaine Chen

Ms. Gudrun Heinze

Ms. Justine Wiebe

Ms. Madeleine Aidelman

Peter Reich & Bruce Park

Shannon & Mike

Tamara Sitor

Courtney, Duncan and Peter Grujicic

Katie

Leila and Kayen

Marilyn Taylor

Frances Austin-Gallagher

Marjory Mackay

Isis

Ms. Lee Sarjent

Tribute gifts are a thoughtful and meaningful way of expressing your good wishes orcommemorating an occasion. With a minimum donation of $80.00, The Toronto Humane Societywill print the name of the friend or family member you choose to honour. This is a great way

to acknowledge a loved one and help the many animals in our care.

Call 416.392.2273 ext. 2162 / 2166

Gifts of Love

In Honour of...

Page 33: Animal Talk Winter 2009

Winter 2009Animaltalk 33

Adam Scott Bhagiratti

Amber Landau

Angel Mutch

Anna & Edmund Flis

Archie G W Lamont

Arden Lynn Boehm

Betty Markoff

Billie

Bob Rennie

Butch & Kasey

Caldy

Carmela Crofton

Carol Twigg

Chelsea

Cole, Cashew & Dolly

Crush Vaid

Dante Collict

Darwin

Diamond

Dolores Olson

Donald Young

Doris Wilkinson

Douglas Morrison

Dr. Evelyne Corcos

Earl Grey

Edwen Martin

Emily Sibbald

Eric Gaffney

Erna Schilaske

Frazier Peterson

Georgina Amsen

Gisele Kitty MacKenzie

Gizmo

Irene DeSimone

Jacob & Marie

Jake

Jeanette & Bernie Webber

Jeannie

Jimmy the Dog

Jumbo

Margaret Sands

Marge

Marg-Rheta Wright

Martha Moore

Mary Betty Martland

Mickey Sinclair

Mr. Cameron Sime

Mr. Choco Timms

Mr. Joseph Wallner

Mr. Larry Myers

Mr. Robert (Bob) Stewart Rennie

Mr. Roger Stefoff

Mr. Ronald S Baird

Mr. Wilfred Norman Roga

Mr. William Kreiter

Mr. William MacLean

Mrs. Christine Bejnar

Mrs. Dolores BarbaraCatherine Olson

Mrs. Donna Pellettier

Mrs. Lois CatharineSteadman

Mrs. Madelon Jane Smith

Mrs. Martha Lupsity & herkitty cat Emma

Ms Betsy Bowden

Ms. Alexandra Mitchell Smith

Ms. Christine Timms and Family

Ms. Joyce Sheppard

Ms. Roxy Robinson

Nellie Almeida

Oliver

Pamela Newton

Peppy Devlin

Pierre Mancuso

Ray Decaires

Rocky Mazin

Scooter See

Scout Milroy-Bozzo

Shelby

Sherri James Prudenceand Squeker

Spottie Steadman

Steven MacMillan

Striker

Struggle

Sydney & Madison Whitfield

Tasha

Terra, Sam & Matt

Tikva & Maggie Biehl

Tom Thumb Moorcroft

Toubi

Angel

Bart

Blackie

Bob

Bobby

Brigus

Buddy

Charlie

Chloe

Doc, China,Harry & Mister

Fanny

Fluffy

Freddy

Ginger

Jack

Mackenzie

Mattie

Misty

Oreo & Zeus

Pookah

River

Rod & Serena

Snoopy Brazeau

Stoney

Tess

Voan Pohlman

Call 416.392.2273 ext. 2162 / 2166

With a minimum gift of $80.00, The Toronto Humane Society will print the name of the one to whom youwish to pay tribute. This is a great way to acknowledge a loved one’s memory and help the animals.

Gifts of Love

In Memory of...

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Winter 2009Animaltalk34

Fundraising Event

Thank you Throw A Ball!Special thanks to Rachel O’Hearn and the entire Throw A Ball committee, event sponsorsand everyone who attended the November 5th cocktail party in the Distillery District.

With everything donated, including the sale of special “poo-bags” filled with surprise gifts, allproceeds from this event will directly support the animals at The Toronto Humane Society™.

Thanks to everyone for doing whatever it takes for the animals!

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The Toronto Humane Society receives donations from a wide variety of people, but it means a lot when kids come

in with their allowance money or money they received for their birthday or from a fundraiser, and give to the animals.

We want to give a special thanks to all those kids who care so much that they are willing to help their animal friends.

Friends of the Animals

Thanks to the Kids!

Paws in the Park Daniel & Elizabeth Animal Right Association

Maddie Angus & Fiona Paws in the Park

Christina Jordan & Jack Jennie Jamie & Samantha

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