TORONTO HUMANE SOCIETY
NOVEMBER 2023
HUMANEINSIDER
FEATURED ARTICLES You’re Invited to Our 90’s Themed Appreciation Event Page 2 Our Holiday 50/50 Launches on November 1st Page 3 Save the Date: Annual Holiday Pet Pics Event Page 4 Toronto Humane Society in the News Page 5 Toronto Humane Society Lands a Spot on Top 100 Charities List for the Second Year in a Row Page 6 Congratulations to Greg Ratelle on his CAWA Certification Page 7 Introducing The New Training Class “Polite Family Dog Advanced Manners Class” Page 8 Volunteer Updates Page 9 Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities Page 10 Onboarding Specific Need Foster Parents Page 11 Volunteer Spotlight of the Month: Brandon K Page 12 Welcome New Social Work Students Page 13 Thank You, Pet Parent Support Network Volunteers Page 13 Calendar of Events Page 14
You’re Invited to Our 90’s Themed Appreciation Event
Get ready to step back in time to the groovy 90's!
Save the Date:
Join us on Friday, November 3rd, from 2:00pm to
When: Friday, November 3rd, 2023
7:00pm for a blast from the past and an
Time: 2:00pm – 7:00pm
unforgettable appreciation event.
Where: 11 River Street, the lunch room and patio area on the second floor
We're celebrating our remarkable staff, dedicated volunteers, and our fantastic foster parents. It's your dedication and hard work that keep our mission alive, and we want to celebrate YOU! The 90's are back, and we're throwing it back in style. Dress up in your favorite 90's fashion, or simply come as you are—either way, you're in for a totally tubular time. What to expect: Delicious Free Food and Drinks Fun Games and Activities Fabulous Prizes Come and reminisce about the iconic era that brought us the Spice Girls, flannel shirts, and slap bracelets. Let's make this an appreciation event to remember!
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Our Holiday 50/50 Launches on November 1st!
YOU WIN. PETS WIN. torontohumanesocietylotto.com
Amidst the challenges our city faces, the spirit of
Why Your Participation Matters:
giving becomes even more meaningful. This
1. Uplifting Our City in Crisis: Our city has been
holiday season, we invite you to be part of our
facing challenges, and this holiday season,
Holiday 50/50 raffle, a chance to contribute to a
your participation in the Holiday 50/50 event
greater cause while embracing the festive spirit.
will
Mark your calendars for November 1st when the
community. Let's come together and make a
raffle kicks off its launch!
real difference!
play
a
crucial
role
in
uplifting
our
2. Spreading Hope and Happiness: The festive
Toronto Humane Society Staff and Board of
season
Directors, as well as their spouses, children, and
happiness. By joining in, you're not only
children-in-law, are not permitted to purchase
contributing to the community but also
tickets and are not eligible to win. But don’t worry,
spreading hope to those who need it most.
you can still participate in the spirit of giving by
3. Winning Big: Who doesn’t want an extra
sharing this raffle on social media!
is
all
about
spreading
joy
and
$9,999 this holiday season? With a prize amount that continues to grow, this could be
Following our launch, our first early bird prize
your relief fund this year!
ticket deadline will be November 14th at 11:59 pm EST with a prize amount of $1000. Our second
Don't miss out on this chance to be a part of
early bird prize ticket deadline will be November
something greater this holiday season. Join us on
28th at 11:59 pm EST with a prize amount of $500.
November 1st or share the raffle on social media and be the driving force in making a positive
Our
final
jackpot
draw
will
take
place
on
difference in our city.
December 13th, so if you’re eligible to participate, you’ll want to grab your winning ticket well in
The raffle is licensed by AGCO
advance! With a guaranteed prize of $9,999 that
Lottery License #RAF1302302
will continue to grow, you won't want to miss out on winning big!
Save the Date: Annual Holiday Pet Pics Event
The holiday season is just around the corner, and
How To Book
what better way to celebrate than by creating
Keep your eyes open on your inbox or on social
beautiful memories with your furry friends?
media for a booking link. Appointments must be
Toronto Humane Society is excited to invite all pet
booked in advance to attend this event.
parents and their beloved companions to our annual Holiday Pet Pics event.
A Gift That Keeps Giving By participating in our annual Holiday Pet Pics
Event Details
event,
Date: Saturday, November 18th and Sunday,
memories but also contributing to the welfare of
November 19th
animals in need. The funds raised from this event
Time: 10:00am until 5:00pm – pet parents will need
will directly support Toronto Humane Society's
to book a time in advance to attend
public programs, enabling us to continue our vital
Cost: $50 per session
work in the community.
you're
not
only
creating
cherished
What's Included: Each session booked entitles you to 3 professionally edited photos, as well as a delightful 2024 New Beginnings calendar.
2024 New Beginnings Calendar Our 2024 calendar is better than ever! We are thrilled to present to you our new and improved calendar, showcasing our most adorable pets throughout the year! Don't miss out on the chance to own a copy. To purchase your calendar online, click here. Start the new year off on the right foot with the cutest calendar of 2024!
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Toronto Humane Society in the News In September, Toronto Humane Society was
Lakeview Dog Dip 2023
mentioned in over 72 media clips and reached
Toronto Humane Society participated in the
over 34,481,307 readers, listeners, and viewers! In
Lakeview Dog Dip at the Radisson Blu Hotel. At
terms of sentiment – 56% of the stories were
this event, dogs were invited to swim at the pool,
viewed positively, and 44% were perceived as
and ticket sales were donated to Toronto Humane
neutral. Of this earned media coverage, we can
Society. This story earned 8
see that 31% came from news articles, 63% from
reached over 3.1 million impressions. Major
television, and 4% on the radio. Here’s what
outlets covering this story include; NOW Toronto,
Toronto Humane Society news was buzzing in the
Canada
media last month:
CityNews(680).
Today,
Curiocity
mentions and
Canada,
and
Dog Training The controversial dog trainer “Dog Daddy” was
Adoption Highlights
visiting Toronto, and animal advocates criticized
In September, animals looking for their forever
his training practices. Media covered the story and
home were featured in a variety of publications.
was interested in learning about best practices for
Pet profiles appeared in Toronto Guardian, The
dog training. Approximately 20 mentions and 8.5
New Classical FM, Global News Toronto, Toronto
million impressions resulted from this topic.
Sun, and Canada Today.
Major outlets covering this story include; CBC News, CBC Marketplace, Radio Canada.
Other Media Hits:
Note: There was a misquote in the original CBC
“Heartwarming Cat Stories That’ll Make You
online story, we were able to get the quote
Smile” - Readers Digest
improved but decided to issue a statement on our
“Starlight Investments Marks Inaugural Impact
website to clarify our position on dog training.
Day” - CEO.ca
September Media Stats: Mentions: 72 Impressions: 34,481, 207
Toronto Humane Society Lands a Spot on Top 100 Charities List for the Second Year in a Row
With the rising cost of living and ongoing challenges
challenging times, two in ten Canadians (22% of the
of economic hardship, Canadians are turning to
population) rely or plan to rely on charitable services
charitable organizations for support. At the same
to meet their basic needs.
time, wallets are shrinking, and fewer people are able to support these charities.
At Toronto Humane Society, we have seen firsthand the escalating demand for our public services,
Every dollar donated to our cause is invaluable, but
including our Pet Food Bank, Pet Parent Support
the question for donors remains: Is their support truly
Network, Urgent Care, and Public Veterinary Service.
making a difference?
Addressing
the
concerns
of
our
community,
especially during the upcoming holiday season, is a Recognizing
the
need
for
transparency
and
daunting task. However, it is our unwavering belief
accountability, Charity Intelligence published its
in the power of unity and teamwork that drives us to
prestigious Top 100 Charities list to help donors make
meet this challenge head-on.
informed decisions when giving. We are thrilled to announce that Toronto Humane Society has once
Together, we can ensure that every pet in our care
again earned a spot on this coveted list for the second
receives the care they so rightfully deserve. We can
year in a row!
also keep more families together as we strive to build a stronger, more compassionate community.
The Power of Unity in Action
It's the spirit of teamwork that drives us forward and
This recognition not only reaffirms our commitment
makes our mission not only possible, but probable.
but also serves as a testament to the power of our collective efforts. According to Canada Helps, in these
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Congratulations to Greg Ratelle on his CAWA Certification! integral members of Toronto Humane Society’s leadership team: Greg Ratelle and Phil Nichols. With Greg and Phil’s expertise, we’ll continue to advance our animal welfare initiatives, reinforcing a culture of kindness and compassion. Building Trust and Credibility In the non-profit sector, trust and credibility are critical. Greg's CAWA certification serves as a testament to his credibility and expertise in the field as it shows that he is continuing to pursue and achieve growth, excellence, and professional development. As the Senior Development Officer, Annual Fund at Toronto Humane Society, it In a step towards improving our community, Greg
reinforces
Ratelle, Senior Development Officer, Annual Fund,
partners, and the community have in our ability to
has recently earned his Certified Animal Welfare
deliver on our promises and commitments.
the
trust
that
our
stakeholders,
Administrator (CAWA) certification through The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement. This
Jim Tedford, The CEO of The Association for
remarkable feat demonstrates not only Greg's
Animal Welfare Advancement noted, “Certified
dedication to maintaining high standards, but also
Animal
his commitment to learning and applying his skills
demonstrated
at Toronto Humane Society.
qualifications
Welfare
Administrators
that and
they a
hold
have
specialized
commitment
to
high
standards and ethical practices in our industry. What Does it Mean to be CAWA Certified?
We
The CAWA certification is one of the most
professional development and their pursuit of
respected and unique credentials in the animal
leadership excellence.”
welfare
industry,
signifying
a
high
level
respect
their
dedication
to
their
own
of
excellence and a deep commitment to the welfare
This achievement started its journey when Greg
of pets. In addition to meeting strict eligibility
joined our team as an adoption agent and
requirements for leadership and management in
followed him as he took on new and varying roles
the animal welfare sector, individuals must pass a
across the organization. His growth serves as an
rigorous exam to earn their certification. Greg's
inspiration to all of us and underscores the
accomplishment is not only a personal milestone,
importance of striving for excellence within our
but
respective roles. We congratulate Greg on this
also
a
positive
development
for
our
organization as a whole.
remarkable achievement and look forward to seeing
the
positive
impact
of
his
CAWA
Currently, there are only six individuals in Canada
certification in our mission to Improve the Lives of
that possess a CAWA Certificate, two of which are
Animals!
Introducing The New Training Class “Polite Family Dog Advanced Manners Class”
The
Public
Training
Services
team
recently
Accepting a Friendly Stranger
partnered with the MarCom team to launch a
Politely Accepts Petting
campaign highlighting our new, affordable, and
Appearance and Grooming
accessible
Out For a Walk
group
class
and
private
training
options. With a paid social media campaign
Walking Through a Crowd
announcing
Sit/Down on Command and Stay in Place
our
reduced
group
class
prices
targeting local pet parents, we sold out our
Come When Called
inaugural Introduction to Agility class and quickly
Praise/Interaction
programmed more.
Reaction to a Passing Dog Reaction to Distractions
Our very popular Reactive Dog class, which allows
Supervised Isolation
pet
Walking Through a Door/Gate
parents
to
work
on
simple
foundation
behaviours in the presence of other dogs behind
In this fun class, we’ll work on teaching dogs
wonderful barriers which filter sightlines (courtesy
alternative behaviours to jumping up, counter
of
our
Facilities
also
been
very
surfing, over excited greetings to people and other
selling
out.
We
dogs – all using positive reinforcement. These
currently have a number of opportunities for pet
behaviours look deceptively simple, but are quite
parents to sign up for both of these popular
difficult, especially for young dogs, so we are
classes.
looking forward to working with pet parents to
successful
and
team)
has
consistently
teach their dogs to navigate their surroundings We’ve also introduced some new classes in our
calmly and confidently!
attempt to provide a comprehensive menu of classes to suit every need. We are hoping to fill our
Finally, we’ve also reduced our rates for private
Polite Family Dog Advanced Manners class, which
behaviour training for cats and dogs, and have
focuses on practicing polite behaviours even in
reintroduced a 2-session package to ensure pet
very high-distraction environments. Based on the
parents can access the affordable behavioural
Canine
care they need.
Good
practice
polite
Neighbour behaviour
program, in
the
dogs
will
following
situations: Page 8
Volunteer Updates Anniversaries
Volunteer Opportunities
Please join us in celebrating volunteers who are
If you are interested in any of the following
reaching a milestone anniversary this month!
positions,
Thank you for all your hard work and continued
cbuchner@torontohumanesociety.com.
please
Chris
at
dedication! 5 Years:
1. Research Assistants
Aileigh K – Canine Care
Under the direction of the Senior Manager, Shelter Medicine Advancement, the Research Assistant
10 Years:
volunteer will aid in data entry and investigation
Fotoula H – Feline Care
from case records, for research investigations. The
Bronwen M – Feline Care
volunteer will help with initial data cleaning, then work through case records, enter required data
25 Years:
into a database, and participate in the research
Ligita M – Feline Care
and publication process.
2023 Annual Volunteer Survey
Volunteer Duties
At Toronto Humane Society, we strive to create
Assist with data entry and cleaning
inclusion and maintain a diverse community of
Check data as needed
strong and committed volunteers. To understand
Flexible hours
the needs and interests of our volunteer base, we
Participate in the research and publication
are launching our annual volunteer survey. The
process
information gathered from this survey will allow us
Assist with data entry and cleaning
to benchmark our progress and create concrete, actionable items to inform our work and decisionmaking
making.
confidential
and
Your
input
will
help
is
to
completely improve
the
Job Qualifications Veterinarian or Veterinarian Student (min second year of studies)
volunteer experience so please be thoughtful and
Research
and
data
entry
experience
detailed in your responses. This survey should take
considered an asset
around 5 to 10 minutes to complete.
Proficiency in Microsoft Suite and Teams
is
1. Excel Guru
Click here to take the Annual Volunteer Survey
Do you consider yourself an Excel pro? Would you like to help out with our research projects in shelter
medicine
advancement?
Then
this
position is for you! The Excel guru will help with Excel debugging as well as complex Excel tasks Please complete the survey by 5:00 PM November
such
as
merging
databases
containing
13th. Thank you for helping us improve our
overlapping but not identical case information,
services!
Macros. Etc.
Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities Staff Announcements
Career Opportunities
Toronto Humane Society is continually growing!
Toronto
Here is a list of new staff members who joined our
promoting the humane care and protection of all
team in October.
animals and to prevent cruelty and suffering. Our
Humane
Society
is
committed
to
team of talented, dedicated staff work to support Rebecca Kukucska - Moved to Veterinary
this mission.
Assistant Role Andrea Badri - Social Work Internship
If you are interested in joining our dedicated team
Brianne Bennett - Social Work Internship
please forward your resume to our Human Resource
Department
via
at
hiring@torontohumanesociety.com. Current Job Openings Veterinarian
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Foster Parent Applications Are Open for a Unique Calling
We believe in the incredible power of love,
What You Can Expect as a Foster Parent
compassion, and dedicated care for animals in need. We're reaching out to individuals with a
Support and Resources: Foster parents will
unique calling, those who are ready to open their
receive additional support through handouts and
hearts and homes to become a foster parent to
guidance
animals in special circumstances.
Training Team. You won't be on this journey alone.
TLC Dogs: Our Tender, Loving, and Caring (TLC)
Make a Lasting Impact: Every small act of
dogs are special animals who need that extra bit
patience and understanding can transform the
of attention and care. These dogs may be going
lives of these animals. Your compassion can create
through
a safe and nurturing environment, helping them
a
challenging
phase,
experiencing
fearfulness or anxiety that requires a gentle touch
from
our
Foster
Department
and
overcome their unique challenges and thrive.
and unwavering support. If you're ready to make a difference, if you have We're on the lookout for foster parents who can
the space in your heart and home for these
offer them the love and understanding they need.
remarkable animals, we invite you fill out this form to apply to be Foster Parent. Your love and
Special Species: Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters,
dedication can help write a new chapter in their
etc.
lives.
Animals Enrolled in the Urgent Care program: Animals of families that are facing unexpected hardships are offered 2 weeks to 6 months of foster care.
Start Your Foster Journey Today!
Volunteer Spotlight of the Month: Brandon K making him an even better and more patient friend to his two beloved dogs. Learning and Bonding: A Fulfilling Journey Brandon has been working with Benani on Bluelevel training, with plans to conquer the purple level soon. Through this training, Brandon has learned how to interpret the body language of the dogs we care for and the profound impact their own body language has on these animals. What Keeps Brandon Coming Back? The passionate and friendly staff and volunteers For Brandon, the decision to volunteer at Toronto
create a welcoming atmosphere, making every
Humane Society was a natural and heartfelt one.
day a joy. There is a sense of duty and call to action
An unwavering love for animals and a lifelong
to help animals in need. Yet, it's the positive
companionship with pets have fueled his passion
impact on his mental and emotional well-being
for continuing to volunteer with us.
from being around the animals that truly keeps him engaged.
A Love for Animals as the Driving Force Brandon's connection with animals goes back as
And, as any animal lover can relate, there's always
far as he can remember. Growing up, four-legged
a new animal that captures his heart, leading to
friends brought joy to his life, and that joy
playful conversations with his husband about
eventually transformed into a deep-seated love for
adopting them.
all creatures great and small. Beyond his regular volunteer duties, Brandon has Volunteering at Toronto Humane Society became
also actively supported Toronto Humane Society
the perfect outlet for Brandon to combine his
by selecting them as the charity for his fundraising
passion with action. Both of his dogs were
efforts during the Toronto Waterfront Marathon.
adopted,
allowing
him
to
feel
a
personal
connection to all of our pets.
Brandon's story is a testament to the power of compassion and the transformative effect of
A Rewarding Experience at Toronto Humane
dedicated
volunteers.
With
an
unwavering
Society
commitment, he has shown us that connecting
Toronto Humane Society has been nothing but
with animals in need not only brightens their lives
rewarding for Brandon. It's a place where he can
but enriches our own.
share quality moments with animals eagerly awaiting their forever homes. Through hands-on
Thank you, Brandon, for your passion, dedication,
experience and guidance from the dedicated staff,
and all the work that you do!
he's expanded his knowledge and honed his skills, Page 12
Welcoming Our New Social Work Support Students The role of social work in animal welfare has never
Toronto Humane Society believes that the benefits
been more important. Recognizing the need for
of bonding with an animal are not a luxury - rather,
change through human connection, Dillon Dodson,
by working to increase accessibility, we ensure that
Senior Manager of Social Work, has implemented
marginalized community members can enjoy the
programs to strengthen the human-animal bond. In
benefits of caring for and loving a pet. We're
May of this year, one such program was the Academic
confident that both Andrea and Brianne will gain a
Internship Program for aspiring social workers.
tremendous
amount
of
experience
as
they
contribute to our mission of Improving the Lives of Animals.
Andrea Badri As one door closes, another opens, and although we won't be saying goodbye to Rachel just yet, we are honoured to welcome two new students. Please join us in welcoming Andrea and Brianne to Toronto Humane Society!
Our first student, Rachel Beddar, began her journey with us in May and made sure she wouldn't be saying goodbye in August as she chose to stay on as an Urgent Care volunteer. We are now welcoming two new students, Andrea Badri (Laurier University) and Brianne Bennett (University of Toronto) as they begin
Brianne Bennett
their social work careers with us!
Thank You, Pet Parent Support Network Volunteers We wanted to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering commitment and exceptional efforts over the last month. Your dedication to helping pet parents find evidence-based and compassionate solutions during these challenging times has been nothing short of remarkable. We understand the immense challenges that our city is currently facing, with so many pet parents seeking support and guidance. Your tireless work as pet support agents has not gone unnoticed. You've shown exceptional resilience and empathy as you've navigated our extensive list of curated resources, providing invaluable solutions, information about available services, and alternatives that have been instrumental in keeping pets in their loving homes. In a time when surrender often seems like the only option, you have been the beacon of hope for both pets and their families. Your selflessness and dedication have made a profound impact, and for that, we are sincerely thankful.
Calendar of Events
Movember
International Inuit Day
(Men’s Health Awareness)
November 7th
November 1st – November 30th
A day to honour the culture and history of Inuit
An
annual
event
involving
the
growing
of
mustaches during the month of November to
people and affirm their voices across the circumpolar world.
raise awareness about prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health and suicide
Remembrance Day
prevention.
November 11th A day to honour and remember the people and
Veterans Week
animals who have served, and continue to serve,
November 5th – November 11th
Canada during times of war and conflict.
Every year during the lead up to Remembrance Day on November 11, we honour those who have
Diwali
served Canada in times of war, military conflict
November 12th
and peace.
Hindu Festival. Diwali or Deepavali is the Hindu festival of lights and the Hindu New Year. Diwali
16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
lasts for 5 days.
November 25th – December 10th An annual international campaign that kicks off on
Transgender Day of Remembrance
25 November, the International Day for the
November 20th
Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs
A day to memorialize those who have been lost as
until 10 December, Human Rights Day. It is used as
a result of transphobia and raise awareness about
an
the continued violence faced by transgender
organizing
strategy
by
individuals
and
organizations around the world to call for the
people across the world.
prevention and elimination of violence against women, girls, Two-Spirit, trans, and gender-diverse
Click here to read more dates that we are
people in Canada and across the world.
acknowledging this month.
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