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The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has welcomed more than 50 animals from remote Northern communities into its care this January, responding to increased calls for support as extreme winter conditions, limited supplies, and hazardous travel continue to affect communities across the North.
On Tuesday, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society welcomed 23 cats, seven puppies, and three dogs from remote Northern communities, some travelling as far as 2,000 kilometres.
Thanks to the help of the Northern Reach Network, the Bark Bus and many volunteers, staff and community members who put in long hours, these animals will soon find loving homes through Ontario SPCA animal centres in Barrie, Orillia, Midland, York Region, Napanee, and Sudbury.
Earlier this month, the Ontario SPCA took in 18 puppies who were transferred from Northern communities in urgent need of shelter. Not long after, a nursing dog and her three pups arrived. The Ontario SPCA has also sent more than 12,000 lbs of food North to help keep animals fed, and with the families who love them.
“There is an urgent and growing need in the North this winter,” says Arista Wogenstahl, Northern Regional Manager of Community Outreach Services with the Ontario SPCA. “Communities are reaching out earlier and more often for support as extreme weather and supply challenges make it harder for people to care for their animals.”
Limited access to veterinary care, including spay and neuter services, has contributed to rising animal populations in Northern Canada. Working alongside community partners, the Ontario SPCA delivers critical resources such as food and mobile wellness services while supporting long-term solutions through population management and adoption initiatives.
As a registered charity that is 100 per cent donor funded, the Ontario SPCA relies on the generosity of supporters to help animals and the people who care for them. To donate to support the Ontario SPCA’s work in the North, visit ontariospca.ca
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