Across Canada, more people than ever before are opening their homes — and hearts — to animals. Recent data shows that pet guardianship has steadily risen nationwide, with over 60% of Canadian households now sharing their lives with at least one companion animal. It’s a wonderful trend that speaks to the growing recognition of the comfort, connection, and joy that pets bring to our lives. 

But as pet guardianship rises, the realities of veterinary care have become increasingly difficult for many to manage. Veterinary costs have grown sharply in recent years, and when combined with the rising cost of housing, groceries, and everyday necessities, families are being forced to make impossible choices — sometimes between caring for themselves or their beloved pets. 

That’s why at Toronto Humane Society, we believe that true compassion means looking upstream — taking preventative action to keep pets with the people who love them most. 

For more than 15 years, we’ve operated a public veterinary clinic offering essential and accessible preventative care, including spay and neuter surgeries. Over time, we’ve expanded our services to meet the growing needs of our community through: 

• A daily Pet Food Bank, ensuring families never have to choose between feeding themselves or their animals. 
• Training and behaviour support programs, designed to strengthen the bond between pets and their people — with financial flexibility built in for those who need it most. 
• The Urgent Care Program, which helps preserve the powerful bond between people and their pets during times of crisis. When life takes an unexpected turn — due to sudden illness, housing instability, or domestic violence — our Urgent Care Program provides temporary foster care and shelter for pets, ensuring they remain safe and cared for until they can be reunited with their families. 

And now, we’re taking the next step in this mission. 

We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of a second wellness veterinary clinic in Toronto — a space dedicated to accessible, preventative care that will help thousands of pet families each year. 

Accessible care means fewer separations and fewer heartbreaks — keeping families together where they belong. 

Still, despite our efforts, the need continues to grow. Across Canada, a pet is surrendered to a shelter every 17 minutes. At Toronto Humane Society, we’re here for those animals in crisis — like Maggie, who arrived as a stray in need of care; Mothman, who came from an overcrowded home; and Chloe, who was surrendered when her aging guardian could no longer care for her. 

This is what makes Toronto Humane Society unlike any other. We don’t just care for animals in crisis — we provide care that prevents crisis. We keep families together, ensure pets stay healthy, and create new beginnings when separation can’t be avoided. 

This Giving Tuesday, you can help expand access to care for pets across Toronto. Every donation will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $10,000 thanks to Purina Pro Veterinary Diets. Your impact will be doubled, ensuring that more animals receive the care they deserve. 

Together, we can build a future where every pet has access to compassionate, accessible care — and every family has the support they need to keep their loved ones home. 

Sincerely, 

Phil Nichols, RVT, CAWA 

Chief Executive Officer 

Toronto Humane Society