We are thrilled to share the wonderful news that our Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Karen Ward, has been honoured with the prestigious 2024 Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) Humane Award. This accolade, presented during the Annual CVMA Awards Gala on June 26, recognizes Dr. Ward’s exceptional dedication to animal welfare across Canada. 

Dr. Ward’s journey in veterinary medicine is nothing short of inspiring. A graduate of the Ontario Veterinary College, she has furthered her education and influence through the esteemed University of Wisconsin, University of California Davis (UCD) Shelter Medicine Fellowship. Her role as a mentor in the UCD Fellowship Program underscores her commitment to nurturing the next generation of veterinarians. 

Phil Nichols, our CEO, captured the essence of Dr. Ward’s contributions perfectly: “Dr. Ward has tirelessly advocated for shelter animals and animal welfare for more than three decades. More recently, she has contributed important and innovative research in shelter and community medicine. She has built strong, collaborative, and culturally sensitive preventive health programs in community settings, particularly Indigenous communities.” 

Dr. Ward’s work extends far beyond the confines of our organization. She has been instrumental in establishing and maintaining relationships between Toronto Humane Society and First Nations communities, helping to keep pets with their families, and those with medical conditions, like heartworm disease, receive necessary treatment to live a happy and healthy life.  These relationships also provide adoption opportunities for animals the community can no longer care for. 

Her clinical initiatives, such as community-based wellness and surgical clinics, have brought accessible veterinary care to underserved First Nations and urban communities. These efforts have not only improved animal health but also strengthened the bond between pets and their families.