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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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Canadian Publications Agreement Number 40659555
Toronto HumaneSociety Rescue - Page 8
™
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
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
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
Winter 2009Animaltalk 5
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
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!!!
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
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
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
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
Winter 2009Animaltalk12
Wildlife Recap
Wildly Happy Endings
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.
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™
Winter 2009Animaltalk 15
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
Winter 2009Animaltalk 17
Autumnat 11 River St.
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
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
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
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
Winter 2009Animaltalk22
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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!
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.
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
Winter 2009Animaltalk26
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.
Winter 2009Animaltalk 27
The Fall Adopt-a-thon a Great Success.Many thanks to all those who came out to offer the animals a home.
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
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)
Winter 2009Animaltalk30
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
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...
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...
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!
Winter 2009Animaltalk 35
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
Winter 2009Animaltalk36