FEATURED ARTICLES
Shop Our Sunshine and Rainbows E-Store for a Cause
Page 2
Last Chance! The Spring 50/50 Raffle Ends Soon
Page 2
Toronto Humane Society in the News
Page 3
Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities
Page 4
Volunteer Updates
Page 5, 6
From Fear to Friendship: Gio's Journey to Trust Through Training
Page 7
Fostering Stronger Communities: Toronto Humane Society's Collaborative Workshop
Page 8
Toronto Humane Society Hosts Inaugural Purpose and Learning Day
Page 9
April Community Day Recap
Page 10
May Volunteer Spotlight: National Volunteer Week Winners
Page 11, 12
Upcoming Events
Page 13
Shop Our Sunshine & Rainbows E-Store for a Cause
Toronto Humane Society’s Sunshine & Rainbows Shop isn’t just another online store it’s a beacon of hope and happiness for furry friends waiting for their forever homes.
Every purchase you make from our e-store directly supports our work of providing shelter, care, and love to animals in need Whether you’re picking out tasty treats for our furry residents or opting for the “keep a kennel free” item to help us support families and pets in crisis, your contribution is invaluable
Picture this: as you browse through the online store, selecting items with a purpose, you're not selecting virtual items you're filling hearts with joy Each treat, each toy, each donation contributes to the well-being of animals.
As a token of our gratitude, you’ll receive a heartfelt thank you, complete with photos and videos of our animals enjoying the treats you’ve generously provided. It’s a heart-melting reminder of the impact you’ve made and the smiles you’ve brought to their faces.
And with Mother’s Day just around the corner, why not spread the love to the maternal figures in your life? Select from our specially curated “Mother’s Day Gift” items to show your appreciation in a meaningful way
Toronto Humane Society’s Sunshine & Rainbows Shop today and let your compassion shine!
Last Chance! The Spring 50/50 Raffle Ends Soon With an Estimated Jackpot of Over $29,000!
Volunteers, foster parents, friends, and extended family of staff members can purchase 10 tickets for $10, 40 tickets for $20, or 200 tickets for $40, and encourage others to participate in the raffle. To purchase tickets, visit wwwTorontoHumaneSocietyLottocom The raffle will end on May 8th, 2024 at 11:59pm EST with the final draw on May 9th, 2024
Please note that staff and Board of Directors, along with their spouses, children, and children-in-law, are prohibited from purchasing tickets and are not eligible to win.
Page 2
Toronto Humane Society in the News
In March, Toronto Humane Society was mentioned in over 127 media clips and reached over 60,364,161 earned media impressions through radio, online news and television! Of this earned media coverage, we can see that 28% came from news articles, 63% from television, and 9% on the radio. Here’s what Toronto Humane Society news was buzzing in the media last month:
National Guinea Pig Adoption Month
Toronto Humane Society promoted National Guinea Pig Adoption Month by appearing on TV shows to promote Guinea Pig adoption Lucas Solowey appeared on CP24, and Lauralee Dorst appeared on CBC Kids.
Expanding Veterinary Services
Phil Nichols, CEO, Toronto Humane Society spoke with CityNews Toronto about a grant from PetSmart Charities of Canada that allows the organization to expand veterinary services.
Dog Attacks
Following several dog attacks, Toronto Humane Society offered tips on how to keep pets and people safe and the importance of early training. Coverage includes: Toronto Sun, Global News, CP24, CTV News, CBC News, and CityTV
Adoption Highlights
In March, animals looking for their forever home were featured in a variety of publications Pet profiles appeared in Toronto Guardian, The New Classical FM, Global News Toronto, and Toronto Sun.
Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities
Staff Announcements
Toronto Humane Society is continually growing!
Here is a list of new staff members who have joined our team or moved internally
Darragh Newman – Veterinarian (PVS)
Emma Okumura – Administrative Assistant, Marketing and Development
Rebekah Bergin, RVT
Melissa Herman – Veterinarian (PVS)
Dana Badran - HR Coordinator
Claire Blumenthal – Senior Certified Animal
Trainer and Behaviour Education Specialist
Career Opportunities
Toronto Humane Society is committed to Improving the the Lives of Animals Our team of talented, dedicated staff work to support this mission. If you are interested in joining our dedicated team please forward your resume to our Human Resource Department via email at hiring@torontohumanesocietycom
Current Job Openings:
Senior Major Gifts Officer
Certified Animal Trainer
Veterinarian
Page 4
dedication!
1 Year:
Kavina B, Special Species and Canine Care
Sam B, Canine Care
Anna Marie C, Pet Support Service Agent
Noah C, Feline Care
Julie C, Feline Care
David DL, Canine Care
Erika D, Animal Bio Writer
Aaron D, Canine Care
Geneva F, Animal Bio Writer
Roman F, Canine Care
Sarah G, Animal Bio Writer
Celia G, Animal Bio Writer
Robyn H, Feline Training Assitant
Juliana H, Canine Care
Liya I, Animal Bio Writer
Esther J, Pet Support Service Agent
Laura J, Special Species Care
Uma G, Special Species
Shari K, Feline Care
Trisha K, Canine Care
Sandra G Remote Foster
Maude P, Animal Bio Writer
Justine O, Driver
Amaya P, Pet Support Service Agent
Sylvanna P, Canine Care
Jeannine P, Special Species Care
Rikena R, Onsite Foster Support
Katie R, Canine Care
Payal S, Feline Care
Lauren S, Animal Bio Writer
Johanna S, Canine and Feline Care
Iain S, Canine Care
Agnes V, Onsite Foster Support
Heidi V, Canine Care and Public Training Assistant
Erica W, Special Species Care
Gaye W, Remote Foster Support
Jackie Y, Canine Care
Zeid Z, Driver
15 Years: Dominique R, Canine Care and Board Member
r
Volunteer Opportunity
Doors Open Tour Guides and Welcome Volunteers
Doors Open Toronto is coming up on May 25th and 26th, and we are looking for 7 volunteers each day to guide tour groups consisting of 15-20 people through the building while answering questions and providing information about the various Toronto Humane Society programs
There will be two shifts per day, one from 9:30 AM2PM and the other from 1:30PM-5:30PM and we are looking for 4 volunteers for the morning shift and 3 for the evening shift There will be virtual training before the event and on-site directions and instructions. Tour notes will also be provided to volunteers but having knowledge of Toronto Humane Society’s building is a strong asset This role will provide experience giving tours and make you more comfortable with the building's layout.
Furthermore, when not giving tours, volunteers will be stationed at a welcome desk where they will help with the lineup of attendees, crowd control and will provide information to visitors.
Doors Open Toronto is an incredible opportunity for our staff and volunteers to spread the word about Toronto Humane Society’s missions and programs to a greater audience, so if you have the availability, please consider joining us. Thank you in advance!
We are looking for one volunteer for Saturday May 25, 1:30pm-5:30pm
If you are available and interested, please email Chris ( cbuchner@torontohumanesociety.com ) .
Volunteer and Foster Parent Town Hall
Date: Thursday, May 23rd from 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Event Details: This is forum for us to connect with our volunteers and foster parents to share important updates, get your input and/or answer any questions you may have! In this town hall participants will hear from:
Volunteer Department
Foster Department
Shelter Care
Adoption Department
Location: Zoom - Town Hall Registration to register.
Page 6
From Fear to Friendship: Gio's Journey to Trust Through Training
At the heart of every pet parent’s journey lies a desire for their furry, feathered, or scaly companions to lead happy, healthy lives For Gio, a 6-year-old brown tabby adopted alongside his friend Kiki in 2020, this journey took an unexpected turn as his guardian navigated the challenges of gaining his trust and ensuring his well-being
Since his adoption, Gio's guardian noticed his reluctance towards human interaction, making vet visits a particularly stressful ordeal for both him and her. Determined to ease his anxiety and create a positive experience, Gio's guardian sought assistance from Toronto Humane Society's Public Training Services
Certified Animal Trainer Jessica Tartaglia, CPDTKA, became an invaluable resource in Gio's journey towards cooperative care Through a Cat Problem Solving and Behaviour Modification Consultation, Jessica provided personalized guidance on administering fear-free medication and acclimating Gio to his carrier, all aimed at making vet visits less daunting
Guided by Jessica's expertise, Gio's guardian embarked on a training regimen, starting with the introduction of liquid treats via syringe a crucial step in creating positive associations with medication administration Additionally, they worked on gentle handling techniques, gradually building Gio's tolerance for necessary procedures.
The results were transformative Gio's guardian's commitment to training bore fruit when she successfully administered the medication and transported him to the vet, all while minimizing
stress for both Gio and herself! She shared in an update, “When Gio tasted the Gabapentin, he took off and wouldn't let me near him After about an hour of playing peek-a-boo, he sought refuge inside a soft-aided carrier. Once contained, I was able to administer the Gabapentin and then, a little later, carefully moved him from the soft-sided carrier to the hard-sided carrier suitable for transporting him to the vet. Fortunately, I was still able to take him to the vet forhisrabies shot and nail trim. I am so relieved! I have learned from this morning's challenges and will be sure to put my hand on his neck each morning”
This success story underscores the power of positive reinforcement and the profound impact of training in fostering trust and reducing stress in pets Through dedication and learning, Gio's guardian not only improved his well-being but also empowered herself to navigate future challenges with confidence
This tale of triumph serves as a testament to the invaluable support and resources offered by Toronto Humane Society's Public Training Services Ready to start your own journey? Book a training class or consultation with Toronto Humane Society today and unlock the potential for positive change.
Fostering Stronger Communities: Toronto Humane Society's Collaborative Workshop
In the intricate web of community welfare, the bond between humans and animals holds a profound significance Recognizing this, the Community Animal Welfare and Social Work teams joined forces this year to craft a 2.5-hour interactive workshop tailored for frontline and supervisory staff in human-serving shelters across Toronto The workshop, a collaborative effort between Toronto Humane Society experts and social services professionals, aims to equip staff with crucial knowledge and skills to safely accommodate pet parents and their beloved companions within shelter environments.
This innovative workshop, offered both virtually and in person, addresses a pressing need in our communities Too often, individuals facing hardship find themselves in precarious situations when they cannot access shelters that accommodate their pets By opening doors to pets alongside their guardians, shelters not only provide a safe haven but also nurture a reciprocal emotional support system, strengthening bonds amidst adversity.
Throughout the year, the workshop has been presented to four agencies across five events, reaching frontline staff and supervisors alike. The outcomes for participants are profound, encompassing a diverse range of skills and understandings essential for creating a secure and nurturing environment for residents and their furry friends.
Participants emerge from the workshop equipped to define and articulate the importance of the human-animal bond, manage dog-dog and doghuman interactions safely, and implement crucial
enrichment and behavioural considerations in shelter policies Moreover, they gain insights into dog body language, safe handling techniques, and emergency protocols, empowering them to provide optimal care for shelter residents.
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with one attendee expressing gratitude for the invaluable insights gained. They commented, “Their expertise and passion for animal welfare were evident throughout the session, and we were truly inspired by the knowledge and skills they shared with us. The training provided invaluable insights into best practices for handling and caring for the pets in our shelter, and we are confident that it will greatly benefit our staff, our clients, and the animals under our care. The knowledge gained from the training session will undoubtedly enhance our ability to provide the highest standard of care for the animals in our shelter We are committed to implementing the techniques and protocols discussed during the training to ensure the safety and health of our pets."
Initiatives like this training workshop exemplify the power of collaboration in fostering stronger, more resilient communities. By providing evidence-based education and support, we can bridge gaps, uphold the human-animal bond, and ensure that families and their beloved pets remain together, even in the face of adversity. Together, we can continue to improve and strengthen our communities, one helping hand at a time
Page 8
Toronto Humane Society Hosts Inaugural Purpose and Learning Day
On April 25, 2024, Toronto Humane Society launched our first-ever Purpose and Learning Day, an internal initiative aimed at enriching the skills and knowledge of our fosters, staff, and volunteers. Held in our boardroom, the afternoon was filled with education, appreciation, and community building
The event kicked off with quarterly updates from Phil Nichols, CEO, Dillon Dodson, Director of Social Work, and Melissa Shupak, Director of Animal Sheltering They provided insights into our recent achievements, ongoing projects, and future goals. This segment also provided attendees with an opportunity to engage in a Q&A session, fostering open communication and transparency
Following the updates, the atmosphere shifted to one of appreciation and recognition. Chris Buchner, Manager of Volunteer Services, took the time to honour new and long-serving members, celebrate milestones, and present awards to volunteers and foster parents.
A highlight of the event was the series of talks and workshops designed to enhance participants' knowledge and skills. Dr. Alex Focken led a captivating discussion on anesthesia, delving into its intricacies and best practices
Attendees also had the opportunity to sharpen their media skills through a workshop led by Lucas Solowey, Manager of Public Relations With a focus on effective communication and representation, participants gained valuable insights into engaging with the media and effectively conveying our message to the public
Throughout the day, attendees were treated to a delectable spread of healthy, plant-based, and nut-free foods provided by Kupfert & Kim
Overall, the inaugural Purpose and Learning Day was a resounding success, laying the foundation for future editions of this transformative initiative. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, appreciation, and community engagement, Toronto Humane Society reaffirmed our commitment to excellence in animal welfare and empowerment of its dedicated workforce Thank you to everyone who attended!
Please save the date for our second Purpose and Learning Day, which will be tentatively held on July 25, 2024
April Community Day Recap
Our Community Day events is a heartwarming initiative aimed at providing essential items for beloved pets and support their caregivers in the community. The outcome? A remarkable display of generosity and compassion that touched the lives of many 380 clients were served throughout the day, receiving vital supplies to care for their furry, feathered, or scaly companions. Above is a glimpse of the impact of our April Community Day event
And the highlight of the event? An astounding 6,075 pounds of dry food distributed to ensure pets across the community have nourishment to thrive
We would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this day possible. Your generosity has not only provided essential supplies but has also brought comfort and joy to countless pets and their families
In addition to the Community Day event, the onsite Pet Food Bank witnessed a month of bustling activity and unwavering support Throughout March, 681 pet parents accessed this vital service, benefiting from $6,948 worth of donated pet food from our valued partners
As April unfolds, the demand for assistance continues to grow, with 374 pet guardians already seeking support to feed their animals. This underscores the ongoing need for community involvement and support to ensure that no pet goes hungry
Page 10
May Volunteer SpotlightNational Volunteer Week Winners
You’re a Gem - Michelle Squires
For the past year and a half, Michelle has served as a Pet Support Service Agent, pouring her heart and soul into every task with infectious enthusiasm.
Michelle's remarkable spirit radiates through her tireless efforts, always ready to lend a helping hand and provide invaluable support to both colleagues and the public alike. With her exceptional knack for problem-solving, she navigates inquiries with ease, ensuring every question finds its answer, and every concern finds its resolution.
But Michelle's impact extends far beyond the call of duty She selflessly assists the adoption team, striving to make every interaction a joyous experience. Her warmth and kindness are not just noticed but cherished by all, as she effortlessly brings smiles to the faces of those around her
Without her unwavering commitment, Sundays would be dimmer and less fulfilling. Michelle is not just a volunteer; she's a shining example of selflessness and dedication, deserving every accolade bestowed upon her
Mentorship Award - David Aronoff
In his role as an animal care volunteer working with all species and as a newly appointed feline volunteer training assistant, David's commitment to the well-being of our animals is unmatched. Beyond his direct involvement with our furry friends, David's impact extends to the strategic level, where he serves as an integral member of both our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) council and our Purpose and Learning Day Planning Committee.
As a colleague and mentor, David's passion and commitment are truly inspiring. His willingness to share his wealth of knowledge and insights enriches us all, fostering a culture of learning and growth within our volunteer community
In honoring David Aronoff with the "Mentorship Award," we celebrate not only his remarkable achievements but also his enduring impact as a mentor, leader, and advocate for positive change We are immensely grateful for his contributions and privileged to have him as a valued member of our team
Rockstar Rookie - Prathemesh Phadnis
Despite only joining our team a few short months ago, Prathamesh has already left an indelible mark, dedicating nearly 30 hours of his time to our mission.
Whether it's cleaning enclosures or tending to the needs of our beloved animals, he approaches every responsibility with a sense of purpose and determination that is truly inspiring
His ability to adapt and learn quickly is nothing short of remarkable, ensuring that he not only meets but exceeds expectations at every turn. Moreover, his exceptional communication skills foster a sense of unity and collaboration within our
Through his tireless efforts, Peter has become an indispensable asset to our organization, enriching the lives of both animals and humans alike.
Going the Extra Mile - Ellen Jones
Whether she's lending a helping hand to our canines and felines, or assisting in the clinic, Ellen's commitment to excellence knows no bounds. Her unwavering dedication is perhaps most evident in her role as a clinic volunteer, where she consistently surpasses expectations
In moments of need, Ellen emerges as a true hero, stepping in to fill gaps and provide vital support, even in areas beyond her assigned department Her willingness to go the extra mile knows no bounds, whether it's staying late to assist with Trap Neuter Release clinics or volunteering multiple days to aid in crucial veterinary procedures
Her dedication, reliability, and boundless generosity of spirit embody the very essence of what it means to make a difference We are immensely grateful for all that she does, and we are proud to celebrate her as a valued member of our team.
r e l , s l m e
Page 12
Upcoming Events
Mental Health Week
May 6 - 12
A week to raise awareness about the importance of caring for our mental health
Mother’s Day
May 12
A day to celebrate and honour the role of mothers, maternal bonds, and their influence on society
International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
May 17
A day to celebrate people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics, and raise awareness surrounding the violence and discrimination that the 2S/LGBTQ+ community faces
Endangered Species Day
May 17
A day to promote the learning and action that needs to be taken to protect species that are threatened and endangered
Victoria Day (Public Holiday)
May 20
A public holiday in Canada in honour of the late Queen Victoria's birthday
Pansexual Visibility Day
May 24
This is a day to celebrate the pansexual and panromantic community and educate others on the community
National Accessibility Week (NAAW)
May 26 - June 1
A day to celebrate the contributions of those with disabilities and recognize individuals, communities, and workplaces that are actively working to remove barriers to accessibility and inclusion
Click here to read more dates that we are acknowledging this month.