™

A True Friend of the Animals

Interview with Ann Rohmer

Where Are They Now?

The pets featured in our TV spot
comfy in their new homes

Canadian Publications Agreement Number 40659555

 Mission Statement: To promote the humane care and protection of all animals and to prevent cruelty and suffering

Spring 2009 Issue

Cover Story The Toronto Humane Society
11 River St., Toronto ON, M5A 4C2
Ann Rohmer, Harry & Henry 10 Tel: 416.392.2273 Fax: 416.392.9978
email: info@torontohumanesociety.com
Whatever it Takes 6 website: www.torontohumanesociety.com
Canadian Charitable Registration Number 11925 9513 RR0001

Features Society Officers

Tim Trow, President
Cujo 22
Bob Hambley, Secretary-Treasurer
Remembrance 13 Joan Milne, Vice-President
Carol Lupovich, Vice-President
Cutting Edge Treatment 8
Board of Directors
Tre-rific Advice 12 Stephen Dooley Patricia McIlhone
Membership 16 Bob Hambley Joan Milne
Sandi Hudson Laurie Overton
Municipal Pounds 18 Pam Inglis Delores Qasim
Gino Innamorato Tim Trow
Shelter Alan Johnson Al Tweten
Valerie Jones Bud Walters
Red Eared Sliders 4 Carol Lupovich

Medical Miracles 9 Animaltalk is distributed free of charge to

approximately 55,000 Society members and
Through Wilbur’s Eyes 14 financial contributors.

Staff Profile 20 ISSN 1192-4861

Wildlife Advice 21
Adopt an FIV+ Cat 26

Whats New
Order Toronto Humane Society Items! 24

2 Animaltalk
Spring 2009

What Your Membership Dollars
Mean to the Animals
n the shelter, they’re only
I weeks away from finish-
ing the sun room where the
tropical birds will soon live
under the big skylight.
The finches, love birds,
budgies and canaries now
away from natural light will
soon wake up to the warm
sunshine and we will hear
their cheerful voices.
Trying to provide better
for the little birds is typical
of The Toronto Humane
Society. It’s a place where
people are always thinking
of new ways to make the
animals’ stay easier.
The way we take good
care of the animals is what
makes volunteering or work-
ing at the shelter rewarding.
Otherwise, seeing animals
who have suffered so much
would be disheartening.
Our shelter sees Toronto’s
animal abuse of all kinds:
rabbits that have arrived
caked in dirt, crammed 12
to a carton; the tiniest kit-
tens wrenched prematurely
from their mothers and
barely alive; dogs so used to
being beaten that they
cringe when your hand is
inadvertently raised.
The timid can be the
hardest to help. They try to
hide, cats under their blan-
kets and dogs shaking in
the back corners of
heir pens. It’s clear that
they’ve had everything they
know pulled from under
them. Thankfully, experi-
ence shows that with kind-
ness they will soon realize
that they are in the safest
of places.
Each day when I come
Message from the President
to the Society and witness
how much is done to
help, I am reinvigorated
and I recommit myself to
telling the animals’ sto-
ries. I want people to
know how much their
support for The Toronto
Humane Society means to
the animals.
The animals need the
Society to stay strong.
That’s why in this issue of
Animaltalk I am asking you Tim Trow, President
to support the animals by Purchasing a member-
joining the Society as a ship is a special gift for the
member. It costs $30.00 animals because it makes a
annually ($10.00 for sen- powerful statement. It sig-
iors). Please use the insert nifies that you have
and return envelope. stepped up to take a stake
(If you already are a in the shelter’s work, ensur-
member, you’ll receive a ing that the Society is here
renewal notice when your to care for animals for years
current membership is near- to come.
ing expiry). - Tim Trow, President
Animaltalk
Spring 2009
3
 Turtles

Red Eared Slider Turtles

ecently at The Toronto
R Humane Society we
have seen a number of
abandoned red eared slid-
er turtles. These turtles are
often bought as pets when
they are quite young and
the owners are told that
they will stay small -
about the size of a toonie
for their entire lives. This
is not true. They grow to
the size of a dinner plate
and most people can’t
accommodate them.
At the shelter the turtles
live in two ponds which
give them space and room
in which to swim and stay
in the water if they choose.
There is room for them to
come out and bask under
the light.
We find homes for the
sliders but they should
never have been purchased
in the first place and
should not be sold as pets.
Many are simply play
things for children and
later abandoned. It is inhu-
mane to try to make these
creatures into pets.

4 Animaltalk
Spring 2009
 Wildlife Rescues

Two Guests in the Wildlife

Rehabilitation Centre:
Opossum
An animal lover found this
opossum on the road and
brought her to The Toronto
Humane Society for care. We
believe she was hit by a car
and injured. Once she was
stabilized we took x-rays to
determine the extent of the
damage. Luckily there were no
serious permanent injuries
and she has been released
back into the wild.

Mallard Duck
This iconic Canadian crea-
ture came into our shelter
with a hurt leg. We do not
know the cause of the injury
but after a few weeks of
cage rest we can see that he
is getting stronger. He can
now jump into a pool and
exercise his leg. It will take a
few more weeks but the vet-
erinarians expect him to
recover fully and we will
release him into his natural
habitat soon.

Animaltalk
Spring 2009
5
 Whatever it Takes

Whatever it Takes:
The stories from the Celebrities in our ‘Whatever it Takes’ TV Spot
Monty:
We are very happy to say that Monty has made our home his. His
favorite activities are going for walks, getting belly rubs from any-
one and everyone who is willing and watching the Leaf games with
the family. We are looking forward to taking him on long walks
this summer and teaching him how to go up and down hills.

Although Monty is a ‘special needs’ dog, we actually do not find

him to be much work. We would strongly encourage people to
consider a "special needs" animal when selecting a pet. The affec-
tion you will receive in return is priceless.

Angus & Emma:

I discovered that the THS had opened a new Pet Adoption Centre
while I was doing research on the internet. We were interested in
adopting one dog and my husband wanted to get an adult rather
than a puppy. When we arrived I fell instantly in love with Emma,
and Angus seemed to latch onto my husband… We couldn’t
decide on one or the other… Well, we ended up adopting both
puppies (from the same litter) and we are so happy! It just goes
to show that you can never predict what can happen and that you
need to have an open mind and heart.

Skyla:
Skyla is the first shelter dog that our family has adopted and it has
worked out wonderfully. I have young children and lots of kids
visiting from day to day and Skyla has fit in perfectly. She is great
with the children. At first we thought she might become hyper
because of all the activity in the home, but she is a very calm and
gentle young dog. She also really loves our cat “Ella”, but the cat
doesn’t seem quite as infatuated!

Snowball
Since he was adopted, Snowball has put on a healthy five pounds.
His new family has discovered that Snowball likes to twirl (stand
up on his back legs and do a little dance). He enjoys the family
very much and constantly wants to be near them or keep them in
sight. They weren’t sure if a dog was what they needed, but now
with Snowball they can’t see life without him.

6 Animaltalk
Spring 2009
 Whatever it Takes

Peggy Sue
Peggy Sue is very lovable and her best friend is a bullmastiff from
the neighborhood. She attends training classes where she excels.
Her owner’s home felt empty for the longest time after their last
dog passed away; now with Peggy Sue it feels like a home again.
Family and friends spoil her. Her favorite snacks are vegetables
and she enjoys playing with everyone.

Stewie
Stewie was different as a pup, appearing smaller and less coordi-
nated than his littermates due to a visual impairment. His condi-
tion does not prevent him from racing around the yard playing.
He also has the companionship and support of Harley, also
adopted from The Toronto Humane Society. Stewie and Harley
play outside together and both are doing well. Both dogs love
people, get along with other dogs and are genuinely happy in
their new home.

Kai
Kai has been doing well since he was adopted from The Toronto
Humane Society. He has gained 10 pounds, has become relaxed
in the house, and doesn’t pull on walks at all. Kai has become a
loving addition to the family and they cannot imagine living
without him.

In Memoriam:
Smokey:
At the age of seven, Smokey
passed away due to liver failure.
Smokey was surrounded by love
in a palliative care foster home.

Animaltalk
Spring 2009
7
 Health

Cutting Edge Treatment Used

to Save Lives
he Toronto Humane
T Society recently acquired
a number of nebulizer sys-
tems for use by the veteri-
narians. They are manufac-
tured in Denmark and con-
sist of an oxygen tent and
nebulizer attachments, that
in turn are attached to a
forced air supply.
Nebulizers are commonly
used to administer drugs in
the form of broncho-dila-
tors, offering relief to ani-
mals struggling to breathe.
Cats are prone to upper res-
piratory infections. In severe
cases, these infections result
in congestion, dryness and
pain. Mouth ulceration and
other accompanying symp-
toms can result in loss of Garth Jerome and Dr. Steve Sheridan
appetite, weight loss
and much discomfort.
The nebulizers provide
cats with a stream of warm,
moist air mixed with vapor-
ized sterile saline into an
oxygen tent. The cat is
placed inside where a stream
of high pressure oxygen is
applied to the nebulizer.
This warm moist air fills the
tent. Animals that are rou-
tinely nebulized receive sig-
nificant relief in this way
because the moist air assists hydrate the mouth and greatly assists in the restora- which also encourages cats
in breathing and helps to nasal sinuses. This therapy tion of the sense of taste, to begin eating again.

8 Animaltalk
Spring 2009
 Health

Medical Miracles

Savannah
This absolutely gorgeous, bright, cute, bouncy, and happy
little girl was abandoned by her owners with a severe
urinary tract infection that made her sick. Staff at the shel-
ter were able to identify the exact type of bacteria, and
prescribed the proper antibiotics to fight the infection.

With a clean bill of health, Savannah now lives in her

new forever home.

Smooch
Smooch was found and brought into the shelter with a
broken leg. Her owner has never been found.

We performed extensive surgery, adding a plate and

four screws to Smooch's leg. There was a real concern
that Smooch might never walk again; however, after
only 3 or 4 weeks of cage rest this plucky girl was up
and walking with no problems!

Animaltalk
Spring 2009
9
 Profile
Ann Rohmer Profile
Ann Rohmer is the Lead Anchor at CP24 and
Host of Animal House Calls.
nn grew up with a
A strong belief that ani-
mals had the right to be
loved and cherished by
people. During her child-
hood, her family home
always included animals.
Ann’s father, whom she
describes as an extremely
strong and powerful man,
loved his animals so much
that the only time she saw
him cry was when one of
their pets passed away.
This taught Ann that it is
appropriate for everyone
to feel true love and affec-
tion towards a pet.
Ann’s past with animals
and her extensive work as an
animal advocate made her
the natural choice to be the
host of Animal House Calls
when it was first conceived
of five years ago; there was a
realization that there wasn’t
a show to speak for the ani-
mals and to pet lovers.
Animal House Calls was
designed to be both a voice
for animals and a source of
information for pet owners
on a wide range of topics
such as pet care, training and
safety. Ann describes the
show as a ‘learning and lov-
ing experience’.
10 Animaltalk
Spring 2009
Since the show’s early days
The Toronto Humane
Society has been grateful
for the opportunity to
appear regularly on the
show to speak about some
of the animals in its care
and about issues relating to
animal welfare. Senior
Agent Tre Smith finds
Animal House Calls is
important in profiling ani-
mals needing new homes
and in allowing Ann and
him to speak to the public
about the issues they both
care about.
Ann’s love of animals is
evident as she hosts Animal
House Calls and she says she
really looks forward to five
o’clock on Tuesdays. A lot of
the news that has to be
reported is serious. In con- sion is to help animals. and they show incredible
trast, Animal House Calls is They lead by example.’ strength and resilience.
an uplifting experience for One recent story that When love is given to
Ann and the audience each really touched Ann was that them they return love
and every week. “The best of Cujo (see story on page unconditionally. “Don’t
part of Animal House Calls is 22 – 23). Ann was brought you wish people could be
seeing the different animals, to tears as his ordeal was more like that?”
all with a unique story and described and she imagined One of the most difficult
personality.” said Ann. what he had to go through. times in Ann’s life was
Ann really admires the Ann truly believes that when her beloved pet Lucy,
folks who work with the we, as humans, can learn a a Jack Russell Terrier, passed
animals and describes them lot from the animals. They away at 16. Lucy was ‘the
as ‘hard working, loving carry on when life does love of her life’ and Ann
people whose main mis- not ‘throw them a bone’ will always remember April

2nd, 2008 as a very dark
and difficult day. Lucy was
spirited, loving and is still
deeply missed.
It was eight months
before Ann could even
begin to consider bringing a
new pet into her life. She
thought about it and real-
ized with the challenges of
her job that a cat might be a
perfect companion. (She
already had experience with
cats and remembers her
childhood feline friends
Dusty and Tiger fondly.)
For Ann, the only route
to go was adoption from a
shelter. She believes that
these animals have had
their lives turned upside
down through no fault of
their own and that they
deserve the love of a for-
ever home.
Ann made the choice to
adopt a cat from The
Toronto Humane Society.
She looked for a cat who
most needed her love and
affection. When she saw
Harry at 11 River Street she
knew she had found the
right pet. She describes
Harry as bossy, bold, beauti-
ful, very playful and loving.
Soon Ann realized that
Harry could benefit from a
playmate and companion
as well as enable her to help
another cat find a loving
home. Ann returned to The
Toronto Humane Society
Profile
and immediately fell in
love with Henry. He soon
joined Ann and Harry in
the Rohmer home. Henry is
quite different from Harry
in that he is inquisitive,
more sensitive and a fol-
lower rather than a leader.
The two cats get along very
well and play together all
the time.
Ann describes Harry and
Henry as ‘her boys’ and
says ‘we are a happy
little family’ and that she
can’t imagine her life with-
out them. When she
announced on Animal
House Calls the recent addi-
tions to her life, some
viewers were surprised as
they thought she was a
‘dog person’. In response to
that she says “I am an ani-
mal person.”
Lucy was the love of her
life, and there will always
be a special place in Ann’s
heart for her, but now with
Harry and Henry she loves
her new friends too.
Ann believes that all pet
owners need to be responsi-
ble and well informed
before they consider adopt-
ing and that it should not
be an impulse decision. She
has made the commitment
to a long and happy life
with Harry and Henry.
Animal House Calls can
be seen on CP24, Tuesdays
at 5:00pm.
Animaltalk
Spring 2009
11
 Preparing your Dog for Spring
Tre-rific Advice
by Senior Agent Tre Smith
ith Spring around
W the corner, many
dog owners will begin to
enjoy the warmer
months with their furry
four legged friend, tak-
ing long walks around
their neighborhoods
and local parks. While
the activity and exercise
is great for both you and
your animal, there are a
few things to keep in
mind to ensure is every-
one’s safety.
First, a visit to your vet-
erinarian to make sure
your pet receives his
annual vaccinations, heart
worm test and preventa-
tive parasite control medi-
cine. There are many dog
owners who do not vacci-
nate their animals or put
them on preventative
12 Animaltalk
Spring 2009
medication. This not only
puts your pet’s health at
risk but also your family’s.
Some diseases and para-
sites your pet can get may
be transmitted to you and
your family so prevention
and control are key. Your
pet is a beloved part of
your family, and for
him/her to suffer and pos-
sibly perish from prevent-
able health issues would
be tragic.
Cat owners should fol-
low the same advice, for
both indoor and outdoor
cats. Outdoor cats for the
obvious reasons, but
indoor cats as well. You
would be surprised what
your shoes can track into
the house and transmit to
your indoor cat. Further-
more, if you have not
done so for any reason,
you really should have
your cat spayed or
neutered to prevent
unwanted litters of kit-
tens, not only within your
own household but
among outdoor feral cats
as well. The population is
exploding out of control
and this is directly related
to owned cats that are not
fixed. Thousands of
unwanted and homeless
kittens are born in
Ontario every year.
The unlucky ones who
don’t find homes become
stray, left to wander and
fall victim to the ele-
ments, disease and poi-
soning. They become easy
prey for other larger ani-
mals and often are injured
or killed by cars and
cruel pranksters.
The parks in the GTA
are great places to walk
your dog. Many of our
local parks are
around the rivers and val-
built
leys that make up part of
our natural surroundings
and they are ideal places
for both human and ani-
mal recreation. You need
to keep in mind that we
share these surroundings
with the indigenous
wildlife and that you must
keep a close eye on your
pet and your surroundings
for any threats. There have
been a number of report-
ed coyote attacks on
domestic pets this year, so
be as vigilant as possible
when out with your pet.
Because of the cold winter
and the above average
snowfall we received this
year, it is important to
make sure that your dog
does not play in or near
the rivers during the
Spring melt. The rivers
tend to run high and fast
making it hazardous to
your animal who could be
caught in the deep water
and rapid current. It is
best to keep your pet on
leash and away from mov-
ing water.
During the Spring thaw,
melting snow may reveal
many hazards. Feces that
have been left behind by
inconsiderate owners can
still be a danger to your
pet as they can contain
active bacteria and dis-
eases which could
hurt/infect your animal if
they are ingested. Also,
wild animals such as birds
or small mammals that
passed away during the
Winter should be avoided.
The Spring can be a
great time for you and
your pet, but it is impor-
tant to take the appropri-
ate precautions and be
aware of your surround-
ings. No matter what time
of year, it is important to
be responsible and safe.
Refrain from walking your
pet in risky areas so you
can both enjoy this beau-
tiful time of year!!

Lucy: A Remembrance
Born: 1992 – Passed Away: 2009
e adopted Lucy - "be just a dog", she turned
W a little Shih-Tzu, in
January 2007. She was 15 at
that time, having been at The
Toronto Humane Society for
a couple of months as
nobody seemed to want her.
She had Cushing’s disease, a
heart murmur, UTI, deaf and
had only one eye and had
ample behavioral problems.
It took me several
months to gain her trust
and when she finally was
assured that “yes”, this is
her home and she will stay
forever, and “yes” she can
enjo ying the sun shine outdoors
Lucy
out to be the sweetest little
doggy you could wish for.
She even stopped biting
our vet when she had to go
for her medical exams and
procedures, although she
was deathly scared of them.
She became content,
happy, adorable, attentive,
calm and at ease. She was
very smart and learned sign
language very fast.
She liked going for her
regular morning and
evening walks where she
could explore new things
with her remaining senses.
She would come to my
office when I was working
late and inconspicuously
remind me when it was time
to go to bed and that she
didn't want to be alone.
Lucy was also the only
dog I have ever known who
would literally "purr" like a
cat when I took her in my
arms and stroked her. She
also loved to have her ears
and head scratched and
receive a gentle massage on
her body.
Lucy died in our home on
Lucy at the top of the stairs
Remebering our Pets
March 1st, 2009 at the age of
17, with her systems gradu-
ally giving up. She was
purring almost to the last
minute of her life as we
caressed her little body.
Lucy, our sweet little
baby, you will live in our
hearts forever!
Thank you, Toronto
Humane Society, from the
bottom of my heart, that you
were willing to give a chance
even to such a "hopeless" case
like Lucy was.
“Every life is worth saving!"
- Dagmar
Animaltalk
Spring 2009
13
 Wilbour’s Story
Through Wilbur's Eyes
ars were everywhere,
C tires screeching, horns
honking and I was running
and terrified. I didn’t know
how I got on that road and I
didn't know where I was
going. I just knew I had to
get away from where I had
been living. You see, I spent
days on end tied to a picnic
table in a backyard with
barely any human contact.
There was no clean water
and food came only if some-
one remembered. One day I
just couldn't take it anymore
and I made a break for it.
I can't remember how
long I was tied up in that
backyard. Days were long
and I was so isolated. No
toys, no people to play with.
I was an inconvenience my
owners had to put up with.
So there I stayed outside, hot
summer days and long, cold
winter nights. The winters
were the hardest. On some
of the coldest days, because
of my nonstop crying and
moaning, they let me in
only to be thrown in the
basement as if I had done
something wrong. All I
wanted was to get warm.
You see, I was getting older
and my bones, especially my
hips, hurt so much.
Sometimes when I did get
upstairs in the house I
would steal food from the
14 Animaltalk
Spring 2009
tables and the counters.
That's when I would get
thrown outside again.
Didn't they understand, I
was really very hungry?
So I found myself on a
road trying to find some-
thing better than where I
was running from.
Then, just as I was about
to get onto a busy highway,
suddenly the cars started to
slow down and things
became much quieter. Then
I saw a lady stop her car. Her
words were so kind and her
eyes so compassionate, and I
let her coax me into her car.
The nice lady seemed very
happy that I was in the car
with her. I could see relief in
her face. She was glad I was
safe. That made me feel
wanted and loved.
She took me to her apart-
ment and fed me and patted
me and played with me. It
was amazing! I hadn't been
treated that way for such a
long time. I couldn't remem-
ber a time I was made to feel
so wanted.
Next thing I knew I was in
her car again and we were
going for a ride. This wonder-
ful lady had to bring me to
The Toronto Humane Society
because her apartment
would not allow any more
animals. She already had two
cats and one rescue dog.
The people at the The
Toronto Humane Society
were very kind too. I was so
thankful for that. But it was
very confusing. Some of the
dogs, including me, looked
scared and confused.
Many of the dogs had
been abused in some way.
Some had been rescued by
The Toronto Humane
Society. A few of the dogs
had been dropped off
because their owners would-
n't care for them any longer.
Others were dropped off,
because like me, they
weren't young anymore.

And older dogs can some-
times need more care. I just
couldn't believe some were
dropped off because they
wanted to have a younger
dog! All of us dogs felt so
hurt by this and just could-
n't understand how our
owners could give up a
member of their family who
had been part of their lives
for so long!
They were sad and I was
sad. But nice people came
around and they fed us and
talked to us. We went for
walks and played. I loved
that part. Going back to the
kennels was the hardest part
of my day. The days seemed
long and it was boring and
lonely, but I was always
warm and comfortable.
They never left me in the
cold. I was so glad of that
because it was a cold winter.
And I had spent many win-
ters outside before I decided
to run away.
I stayed at The Toronto
Humane Society for awhile.
You see, I found out during
my stay lots of people want
puppies. You know those
adorably cute faces that no
one can resist. The older
guys like me can get over-
looked because we have suf-
fered traumas that have
affected us. Our past lives
have made us feel that we
can't always trust everyone.
One day a lady with a kind
voice came into the room
where my kennel was and she
called me, ''Hi Wilbur". She
saw my picture on The
Toronto Humane Society
website. She thought I was
very handsome. I had just
recently had my teeth
cleaned. We knew I would be
part of her family. I believe we
picked each other.
Two short days later I was
in her home. I was happy,
nervous and excited all at
the same time. I paced and
paced around the house for
Wilbour’s Story
almost a week trying to get
my bearings. But no one
seemed to mind, they let me
find my comfort zone. Four
months later I am a happy
dog who sleeps in my mom
and dad's bedroom with my
new brother, a Yellow Lab
named Clover. We go for
long walks around the
neighbourhood. We get
homemade dog food and
lots of treats.
I am so grateful to have a
new home and I show her
everyday with a nuzzle or a
little kiss just how thankful I
am. Her son and daughter
and all their friends like me
too! They play tug with me
and give me belly rubs and
take me for walks. It's so
much fun!
My mom says I am full
of energy and exuberance
for a guy eight years old. I
still love to run and play.
My hips are a little stiff at
night and sometimes I
have a hard time getting
up the stairs but it's all
worth it. I have a new
home, a new family that
loves me and cares for me,
and I feel like the luckiest
dog in the world. Now all I
hope for is that all my old
friends at the shelter will
soon find this kind of love
and caring too.
- Darlene Pellman
Animaltalk
Spring 2009
15
 Membership

Join Up as a Member
Special Request from the Board of Directors
Membership Protocol
When you finish reading this issue of Animaltalk, will you please help the ani-
mals one more time by filling out the membership form stapled here.
You may not be a member even though 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 cheque regularly, unless you have a member-
ship 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 force and

Why Be a Member
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.

Duties and Responsibilities of Members

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,

16 Animaltalk
Spring 2009
 Membership

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 sign up
to be a member there.
For information on membership, please feel free to call the membership secretary
at 416 392 2273, ext. 2117 at any time.

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.

Animaltalk
Spring 2009
17
 Municipal Pounds

Twenty-Five Thousand and Three Dogs and

Cats Killed in Toronto Pounds
igures obtained under
F freedom of informa-
tion legislation appear to
show that 25,003 dogs
and cats were
between 2002 and 2007
alone in Toronto pounds.
In 2007 (2008 statistics
requested but not yet pro-
vided) of 6284 cats admit-
ted, 4130 were euthanized
(66%), and of 2707 dogs
admitted, 837 were eutha-
nized (31%).
Budgets have
killed increased. Between 2003
and 2008 it appears that the
City of Toronto spent $54.5
million of the taxpayer's
money on animal services.
Despite requests to the
Mayor and Councilors we
have yet to receive an expla-
nation for the combination
of a high death rate and
steadily few adoptions.
We need your help to
reverse Councils policies.
Please ask
Councilor: Why have the
animals do not seem to have
benefited from a 64% budg-
et increase (2003-2008)?
Telephone, email or write
your Councilor today: 416-
338-0338 or app.toronto.ca/
im/council/councillors.jsp
(for individual Councilor
contact information)
your Please forward the reply
your Councilor sends to us
at communications@toronto-
humanesociety.com

2002 2003 2004

Toronto City Toronto City Toronto City
Humane vs of Humane vs of Humane vs of
Society Toronto Society Toronto Society Toronto
10000 10000 10000
Admitted: 9584 Admitted: 9462
9000 9000 Admitted: 8523 Admitted: 8723 9000

8000 Admitted: 7858 8000 8000

Adoptions
7000 7000 7000 6803 Admitted: 6719
6000 6000 Adoptions 6000
Adoptions 5437
5006 Euthanasia
5000 5000 Euthanasia 5000
4356 4204
4000 4000 4000
Euthanasia
Adoptions 72% Adoptions 3000
3000 Adoptions 3000 3000
2210 64% 2406 2288
2000
64% Euthanasia 45% 2000 48% 2000 Euthanasia
1578 Euthanasia
1272 1363 45%
1000 23% 1000 28% 1000 34%
20% 15% 14%
City of Toronto Source: City of Toronto Access Request No. 06-0124 City of Toronto Source: City of Toronto Access Request No. 06-0124 City of Toronto Source: City of Toronto Access Request No. 06-0124
Toronto Humane Society Source: Shelter Activity Report 2002 Toronto Humane Society Source: Shelter Activity Report 2003 Toronto Humane Society Source: Shelter Activity Report 2004

Note: These graphics compare adoption and euthanasia activities for dogs and cats combined. The charts do not show ot

18
N
Animaltalk
Spring 2009
 Municipal Pounds

TORONTO ANIMAL SERVICES APPROVED OPERATING BUDGET

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
$12,000,000
$11,257,900,00 $11,050,500.00
$11,000,000

$10,000,000 $9,504,900.00
$9,000,000
$8,326,000.45
$8,000,000 $7,565,862.60
$7,000,000 $6,862,810.08

$6,000,000

$5,000,000

$4,000,000

$3,000,000

$2,000,000

$1,000,000

2005 2006 2007

Toronto City Toronto City Toronto City
Humane vs of Humane vs of Humane vs of
Society Toronto Society Toronto Society Toronto
Admitted: 10079
10000 10000 10000
Admitted: 9463
9000 9000 Admitted: 8752 9000 Admitted: 8991
Admitted: 8489
8000 Adoptions 8000 8000
7414
7000 7000 Adoptions 7000 Adoptions
6707 6499
Admitted: 6070 Euthanasia
6000 6000 5402 6000
Euthanasia
5000 5000 5000
4967

4000 Euthanasia 4000 4000

78% 3074
77% 77%
3000 3000 3000
54%
55%
2000 Adoptions 2000
*Adoptions 2000
*Adoptions
1590 51%
Euthanasia Euthanasia Euthanasia
1000 913 1000 607 *see 1000 559 *see
26% below below
10% 7% 7%
City of Toronto Source: City of Toronto Access Request No. 06-0124 City of Toronto Source: City of Toronto Access Request No. 07-0339 City of Toronto Source: City of Toronto Access Request No. 2008-01341
Toronto Humane Society Source: Shelter Activity Report 2005 Toronto Humane Society Source: Shelter Activity Report 2006 Toronto Humane Society Source: Shelter Activity Report 2007
* City of Toronto will not provide figures * City of Toronto will not provide figures

ther activities such as lost animals claimed by owner.

Animaltalk
Spring 2009
19
 Staff Profile
iha is a supervisor at The Toronto Humane Society.
J She has lots of experience with wildlife and has been
instrumental in the efforts of the Society to establish
and maintain its Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.
Jiha became interested in wildlife development from
her extensive expertise with domestic animals and birds
as pets. She has rescued over 16 birds because they have
conditions which keep them from being available for
adoption. All live with Jiha and it is not unusual for her
take home baby birds from the shelter who need 24
hour care and feeding every few hours.
Jiha has been busy preparing the Wildlife
Rehabilitation Centre for what we expect to be anoth-
er busy year helping animals and releasing them back
into the wild. She ensures that all cages are clean and
ready to receive animals, that there are new informa-
tion sheets for the public, and that staff are trained in
the care of wild animals.
She enjoys working with the animals and finds them
calming and soothing. Jiha’s most rewarding moments
are helping animals to recover from injuries and then
releasing them back into the wild.
Jiha wants to remind everyone that with Spring
approaching, it is important to leave baby animals
alone if you find them on the ground, unless you
know their mother has been injured or killed. These
animals are not in need. They are actually going
through their natural process of learning to walk, fly
or climb.

20 Animaltalk
Spring 2009

Wildlife Advice
e live in a great
W Province that has a
diversity and abundance
of wildlife. This is espe-
cially true in Toronto and
the GTA where there are
extensive parklands, rivers
and lakefront.
As Spring arrives and
turns into the warmer
months of Summer, it is
important to remember how
to address wildlife concerns.
Animals do best in their
natural habitat. We encour-
age all members of the pub-
lic not to interfere with them,
especially the young.
The Toronto Humane
Society’s mandate is to help
all animals and that is the
reason we established our
Wildlife Rehabilitation
Centre. Many sick, injured
or young animals come to
us because they need our
care to survive. But baby ani-
mals and birds may not
need to come to the shelter
and should not be moved
from where you find them.
Baby Wildlife
Many people assume that
baby wildlife will have
the same or better chance
of survival if they are taken
to a wildlife centre rather
than leaving them with
their mothers in the wild.
In fact, the success rate for
Wildlife
baby mammals in a wildlife
centre is much lower than
in the wild. These young
have a much better chance
of survival in the proper
care of their mothers and
should be left with them
whenever possible.
If you have found baby
wildlife, handle them as lit-
tle as possible. You should
keep the animal comfort-
able in an outside location.
The ideal situation is a box
lined with blankets and a
moderate heat source such
as hot water bottle to pro-
vide comfort.
After a few hours, if an
animal is still there, give the
animal a shallow source of
water but do not move or
touch it. If, after 24 hours,
the animal is still in the same
location and has not been
retrieved by its mother, bring
the animal to the Society.
Most likely its mother will
not be returning.
Baby Birds
Many people assume that
baby birds only leave their flutter and their flight feath- their time flying between
nest once they can fly, and ers are not yet fully grown. them. Although baby birds
that young birds who are During this period, which appear to be very vulnerable
unable to fly have fallen lasts between 5-10 days, the at this stage, it is imperative
from their nest and/or been baby bird will be stationed that they be left where they
abandoned by their parents. on the ground and coached are. This is a natural part of
In fact, baby birds usually by his parents to find appro- their development
leave the nest before they priate cover. Parents do not
are able to do more than abandon them but spend
Animaltalk
Spring 2009
21
 Rescue

Cujo
The Toronto Humane Society rescued Cujo from a
Bleeker Street apartment where he was left tied up in
the kitchen with no food or water.

22 Animaltalk
Spring 2009

hen our investiga-
W tors got there, Cujo
was found severely emaci-
ated and sitting in his own
urine and feces. Cujo was
immediately brought back
to the shelter to receive the
medical care and treatment
he needed.
Cujo weighed only 3.7 kg
when he came into the shel-
ter, and for his breed and
size, he should have been
about 9 – 10kg. He immedi-
ately began to put on weight
at the shelter and ate vora-
ciously whenever food was
offered. Our veterinary staff
had concerns about perma-
nent damage to his kidneys
but after a short period, his
test results, which had been
worrisome, returned to nor-
Curtis Joseph & Cujo
mal, indicating was no long
term damage.
Despite his ordeal, Cujo
Senior Agent Tre Smith, Cujo and Andi Petrillo of LeafsTV
was always extremely friend-
ly and outgoing towards all
those that he met.
Rescue
Cujo’s story was featured
in the media with the
Toronto Sun running his
picture on the cover twice.
CityTV News, CP24 and
other media were also very
interested in Cujo and how
his recovery was progressing.
Cujo was named after
Toronto Maple Leafs Goalie
Curtis ‘Cujo’ Joseph who
had heard of this brave little
guy and invited us to bring
him down to the Air Canada
Centre to watch a practice
and meet the Leafs team.
Cujo was delighted to be the
centre of attention and
enjoyed his time in the
media spotlight.
Cujo has been adopted to
a loving home and is getting
the attention he so loves.
Animaltalk
Spring 2009
23
 Show your Support!
As a supporter of The Toronto Humane Society, we are now offering you new ways to help the animals. You
can order any of the items below branded with The Toronto Humane Society logo. You could order a t-shirt,
or possibly a coffee mug. We have great looking hats as well. Or maybe just a pen to keep on your desk to
show others your support. These items are both practical ways to introduce people to The Toronto Humane
Society if they are not aware of the work we do helping the animals.
To order contact The Toronto Humane Society at order@torontohumanesociety.com or 416-392-2273 ext
2194. You can place your order with us and we can arrange to have your items ready for pick up or we can
ship them to you for a small additional charge.

T-shirt $25 each + S&H $3.00

Green & White sizes S–XL

Pen $1 each or 5 for $4

FREE shipping

Coffee Cups $15 each + S&H $7.00

two styles to choose from

Toque $12 + S&H $3.00

24 Animaltalk
Spring 2009
 Happy Tails

Happy Tails
Perry:
Perry is a German Shepherd mix who was lost
and came into our shelter with a broken leg. He
was about 5 months old and we believe that his
previous owner had simply abandoned him one
day to fend for himself.

We have found Perry an ideal home where he is

getting the love and attention he needs.

Bobo:
Bobo was abandoned at our shelter. He is an
11 year old Pomeranian, extremely friendly
and outgoing to everyone who meets him.
Before he came to our shelter, he had devel-
oped a weight issue that was causing him
breathing problems.

We found the ideal fit for Bobo in a family that

was committed to helping Bobo lose weight in
a healthy way. Bobo and his new owners are
all extremely happy that they are part of each
others’ lives.

Animaltalk
Spring 2009
25
 FIV

Consider Bringing an FIV+ Cat

Into Your Home.
eet some of the won-
M derful and friendly
cats at The Toronto Humane
Society. These cats are all
suffering from FIV (Feline
Immunodeficiency Virus).
However, FIV is not a human
disease and can't be transmit-
ted to humans.
Many people overlook
our FIV+ cats as they have
the wrong idea that they are
sick and might not make
good pets. Nothing could
be further from the truth.
While many shelters would
put down an FIV+ cat, The
Toronto Humane Society
adopts these wonderful ani-
mals to loving homes. We
have found that they are
peaceful and generally
healthy animals.
Kept happy and healthy,
in a home with no other
cats, these animals will live
a long and healthy life. If
you would like to meet one
of the FIV+ cats we have
here at the shelter, come on
down to 11 River St. and
pay them a visit!

26 Animaltalk
Spring 2009

Emergency Response: Hydro Outage
hen the power
W went out in a large
section of west Toronto
on January 15th, 2009,
The Toronto Humane
Society responded to
help the animals.
With the power being
out for an expected 24
hours and the temperature
very cold, The Toronto
Humane Society opened its
Faulty Electrical Panels
n February, when dogs
I were being injured and
killed by faulty and unmain-
tained electrical panels on
sidewalks in the City, The
Toronto Humane Society
was the first to speak out on
behalf of the animals and
their well-being.
Through the media
we took a two-pronged
Emergencies
Zorita
shelter for pet owners.
We hosted a large boa
constrictor, Zorita, and a
bulldog, Frenchy, who were
getting cold with the heat
off for over 12 hours. The
heat lamps, which normally
warmed Zorita, could not
function without power. We
were able to provide a
warm room, heat lamps
and medical attention. Frenchy
approach to the problem.
First, we helped to raise
awareness, told pet owners
how they could take precau-
tions and avoid injury to
their animals, and advised
what to do if their animal
was injured. Secondly, we
called on Toronto Hydro
and the City of Toronto to electrical grid to ensure that We got results and things
inspect and repair the City’s animals were not at risk. were fixed!
Animaltalk
Spring 2009
27
 Gifts of Love

In Honour of...
Tribute gifts are a thoughtful and meaningful way of expressing your good wishes or
commemorating an occasion. With a minimum donation of $80.00, The Toronto Humane Society
will 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.

Adele Jamie Erickson Mr. & Mrs. Ken McKinnon

Alfreda Kennedy Janis & Diane, Eli & Jonathan Mr. & Mrs. Linelly

Birthday Jennifer & Piero Suppa Ms. Stacia Murald

Chloe & Atlee & All your Furry loved ones Jesse Varcoe Murphy Family

Clients 2008 Jim & Boolie Paul Beatty

Deborah L Esayian Jim Kohane Rahel-Leigh Peckett

Dr. & Mrs Robert McBurney Jordan's Birthday Richard & Lisa

Dr. Elaine Sta Mina Kathryn Hoyland Ryan

Dr. Judith Bonkalo Leona Richman Ryan Wilson & Sandra Wilson

Dr. Alan Fernandes Leone & Jack Callander Sarah Scharfenberg

Dr. Naomi Ross Liam Meneley Sharon Smith

Eileen Reilly & Greg Mills Liz & Lara Theresa Neveu

Ella Luisa Simeone Thomas

Emily Buffett Mali Watt Tim & Sandi Fitzgerald

Gary Holt Michael Kelly Tony & Janet Lundy

Hannah Klein Michael's Dante Tony Seger

Heather & Steven Sodoff Monique Nagy Valerie & Tony Gilmore

Jack & Tim Mr Jacob Dare

Call 416.392.2273 ext. 2162 / 2166

28 Animaltalk
Spring 2009
 Gifts of Love

In Memory of...
With a minimum gift of $80.00, The Toronto Humane Society will print the name of the one to whom you
wish to pay tribute. This is a great way to acknowledge a loved one’s memory and help the animals.

Abby Cleo Harvey Coulter Bain Marlo Riley

Aleitha Rodenhiser Copper, Shadow & Holly Maverick Rob, Sami-Jo & Zero
Allan Cook Maisey
Ila Harnett Mercutio Robert Logan
Alma Hasler Darwin, Zora & Muffy
Isis Merele Hamell Rod Munro
Andy Debbie Donda
Jack Smith Mike Kelly Roy Jenkins
Angel Dee Moorhouse
Jazz & Joy Mike Yerex Ruth Taylor
Anne Barnett Dolly Moorhouse
Jean Brown Millie Pearl
Ruthie
Archie Gillies Dona Louise McNall
Jean Guthrie Misty
Sandy McDonald
Arthur & Audrey Waine Donelda Bridge
Jeffery Albert Mr. Allan Cook
Douglas Bell Sarah
Augustus Celestino Jim McDowall Mr. Herbert Huber
Figueira Dr. Lucie Tuch- Sarah Mary Peace
Joan Mason Mrs. Gladys Pam Smith Cringan
Barbara Brown Homburger
Joan Pohlmn Mrs. Janet Darnell Shades
Bayleigh Elizabeth
John C Bragg Mrs. Jean Hamilton
Beatrice K. Sarabia Elizabeth Donna Shady
Crysdale Joseph Iwan Sr. Mrs. Lisa Kassay
Betty Faris Struppelchen
Felix Judith Ann White Mrs. Marion (Beth)
Beverley Cakir Gattafoni Susan Doerr
Florence Moorhouse Judy Sykes
Blackie, Candy & Mrs. Stella Hunchuck Taffy
Mickey Fluffy Kathy Fitzgerald
Murphy Tara
Blondie Frances Gunn Kato
Muschi, Mitzie & The Large Professor
Blue & Tim Frankie Kitek
Princess Thelma Fortescue
Brandy, Mic & Gus Garry Boyle Kristina Penny
Oakie Thor & Burt
Bonnie Gatina Leeanne Sarjeant
Oreo
Tiger
Buddy General Len Marsh
Patricia Barrett
Tigger & Tammi
Budweiser Doberstein George Lorenz Lillian Williams Patricia Elizabeth
Buster Gibson Lorraine Benson Randall Tony Lewis

Caesar Gilly & Lily Lydia Parker Paul Tweddle Tony Wilson

Cashew Ginger Lynn Woudstra Peaches Tucker

Cecilia Stringer Gordon Smith Lynne Schoales Phil Belyea Ursula Gilhooly
Chelsea Gordon Williams Mandy & Winston Pixel Grant -Schiratti Wanda Buchanan
Clara & Hannah Harrison Marlene McVicar Reva Green Zeus & Claudius

Call 416.392.2273 ext. 2162 / 2166

Animaltalk
Spring 2009
29
 TM

HELP US DO
“WHATEVER IT TAKES”
WITH A GIFT IN YOUR WILL
FOR THE ANIMALS

.. safety for the frightened and abandoned

. medical care for those injured and in pain

loving new homes

For information:
416.392.2273 ext. 2194
fundraising@torontohumanesociety.com
www.torontohumanesociety.com

11 River Street, Toronto, ON, M5A 4C2

The Toronto Humane Society TM is a not for profit charitable organization that receives
no government funding. Charitable Registration #11925 9513 RR0001

Thank you for your support!

30 Animaltalk
Spring 2009