At Toronto Humane Society, our mission is clear: to improve the lives of animals. Every day, our dedicated team of trainers brings that mission to life — whether they’re working with the public in community programs,supporting animals within our shelter walls or in foster homes. 

Whether they’re working with a nervous pup in the shelter, helping a bunny become more social, or coaching a guardian through challenging behaviour at home, our trainers bring patience, empathy, and expertise to every interaction. Their impact is felt across our shelter and in our community,  

This Trainer Appreciation Week, we want to extend our deepest thanks to the trainers who make a difference for every species in our care — from dogs and cats to bunnies, hamsters, guinea pigs, and even the occasional rat. 

Public Trainers: Empowering Pet Guardians

Our public trainers are champions of prevention and education. They work tirelessly to provide accessible, compassionate training support that empowers pet guardians to better understand and communicate with their animals. 

“Our Public Trainers make such a huge difference in the lives of the animals they serve and the families who care for them,” says Beverley McKee, Senior Manager of Public Services. “I couldn’t be prouder of the client-centred and welcoming environment they cultivate. They are masters at strengthening the human-animal bond and providing huge results towards training goals for all who seek their incredible expertise. 

Through accessible group classes, one-on-one consultations, and community support programs, our public trainers help set people and pets up for long-term success — working to prevent issues before they begin. Instead of only responding to behaviour once it’s escalated, they’re working upstream: supporting new pet guardians, helping animals settle into homes, and keeping more pets where they belong. They make training feel welcoming, practical, and achievable for everyone — creating lasting impact through education, empathy, and connection.  

By strengthening the bond between people and pets, our public trainers help keep animals in loving homes — and prevent unnecessary surrenders. They’re not just offering tools for training — they’re offering support, empathy, and empowerment to the community. 

Shelter Trainers: Advocates for Our Residents

Inside our shelter, our trainers are a lifeline for animals navigating transition and healing. With compassion and expertise, they meet each animal where they are, helping them gain confidence, reduce stress, and prepare for success in a future home. 

“As someone who has also walked the path of shelter training and behaviour, I have a deep appreciation for the skill, compassion, and integrity our certified trainers bring to their work,” says Melissa Shupak, Director of Animal Sheltering. “Their commitment to animal well-being, evidence-based methods, and continued learning is remarkable. Through their objective, humane approach, they not only help animals succeed but also support caregivers and educate those around them — making a lasting impact across our organization and community.” 

Our shelter trainers develop standardized training and behaviour plans that can be tailored to each animal’s unique needs. They focus not only on helping animals build confidence and reduce stress but also on educating caregivers in the shelter, foster homes, and new adoptive families. By sharing knowledge and strategies, they ensure consistent, compassionate care that supports animals’ ongoing success and wellbeing across every stage of their journey. 

We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Jacklyn Ellis, Director of Behaviour, for her continued leadership and innovation. Her guidance helps us uphold the highest standards in animal behaviour and training, and her support in mentoring care staff and volunteers ensures that behavioural care extends well beyond the professional training team. 

To our trainers, thank you for the care, expertise, and compassion you bring to your work every single day. You are not only helping animals thrive — you are helping people understand, connect with, and cherish them in deeper, more meaningful ways.