Ottawa Humane Society doubling donations on special day of giving 

Today marks the Day of Giving at Ottawa Humane Society, where donations will have double the impact in providing shelter and care for animals in need.

“It’s incredible how our community has rallied to save lives and help complete so many families,” Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO, said in a press release. 

“If you’ve ever thought about donating to help Ottawa’s most vulnerable pets, there’s never been a better time to make a difference.” 

This year, the Ottawa Humane Society has set a goal of raising $120,000 to help local animals in need.

Funds will go towards shelter and care, medical treatment and rehabilitation, spay/neuter programs, community education and outreach initiatives, and more.

“As we enter the spring and summer season, we’re going to see the number of animals in need ramp up quite significantly,” Stephen Smith, Senior Manager in Marketing & Communications at the OHS, said.

“Kitten season will be starting soon — with moms and their kittens coming to us — and on top of that, we also have many animals that need life-saving care at the OHS.”

According to Smith, an anonymous donor is matching donations up to $120,000 on the Day of Giving.

Additionally, a donor said they will donate an extra $25,000 if the OHS reaches 125 monthly donors today, he explained.

The community’s support goes towards helping animals, like Panda, who was recently admitted to the OHS. The ten-week-old puppy was found alone and in distress.

“She was sluggish and had very low energy, possibly suffering trauma while she was fending for herself,” OHS said in a press release.

“The OHS veterinary team closely monitored her and supported her recovery.”

“Not only do we have animals who need intensive veterinary treatment – like Panda – but we also have animals that simply need somewhere safe to stay, daily food and water, and someone to look after them as they wait for their forever family,” said Smith.

Panda is on her way to making a full recovery, and will soon be searching for her forever home.

This week also marks National Volunteer Week, where the Ottawa Humane Society is recognizing close to 800 helpers who give the animals love and attention, help with daily tasks such as feeding and walking, foster animals. 

Back in March, the animal shelter also expanded its volunteer program to include youth between the ages of 14 and 18.

As a part of the Youth Foster Volunteer program, students have the opportunity to foster rabbits to fulfill volunteer hours and learn about animal care and enrichment, while providing a home away from the busy shelter environment.

Those interested in supporting the OHS can visit the Ottawa Humane Society website.