News & Media

Humane Canada is happy to respond to media inquiries and can arrange comments and interviews with our CEO, Barbara Cartwright.

For media inquiries, please contact our marketing and communications team at media@humanecanada.ca

Looking for the story behind the story? Dive deeper behind the headlines for Humane Canada’s take on the news here.

IN THE MEDIA

2024

  • Researching links between animal abuse and gender-based violence
    March 11, 2024
    Saint Mary’s University
    “Our vision at Humane Canada is to have a humane Canada—to make positive, progressive change to end animal cruelty. But as Humane Canada was doing this work, we realized to make things better for animals, we have to make things better for humans because our fates are really intertwined. Humane Canada has been focused on a one-welfare approach to reach our goals of improving animal welfare”. See the full story here

  • Health Canada to completely ban use of strychnine poison by September
    March 6, 2024
    CTV News
    “Animal welfare groups, including Humane Canada, the Humane Society International, the International Fund for Animal Welfare and Animal Justice, oppose strychnine”. See the full story here

  • Why owning a dog or cat in Canada has become so expensive
    February 3, 2024
    The Globe and Mail
    “These higher costs for medical care – coupled with soaring living costs – help explain why humane societies and other non-profit organizations are struggling. In Toronto, THS has seen demand for its vet clinic shoot up. And across Canada, the volume of animal surrenders is rapidly rising after dropping during the pandemic. At the same time, fewer people are adopting pets, particularly ones with high medical needs, said Barbara Cartwright, CEO at Humane Canada. This is leaving “a glut” of pets in the care of shelters and rescues”. See the full story here

  • These organizations are creating a national pet food bank, with need greater than ever
    January 19, 2024
    CBC News
    “Food costs are going up, vet care costs have skyrocketed, and even access to veterinarians is much more difficult. So we have all of these intersecting crises coming together that makes it very difficult for people to access the resources they need,” said Cartwright. See the full story here

2023

  • N.B. animal shelter struggling with rising number of abandoned pets
    December 7, 2023
    Global News
    “Shelters all across the Country are sounding the alarm bells. In June we really saw this shift in the type of animals that are coming in and the real increase in resources required to care for them “. Watch the full story here

  • Livestock groups call for more flexible Hours of Service rules
    November 10, 2023
    Truck News
    “Said Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada. We don’t support a system that prioritizes the current supply chain structure over the welfare of hundreds of millions of animals that are raised and slaughtered for food.” Read the full story here
  • Animal mistreatment: a bill under consideration in Ottawa is causing concern
    October 25, 2023
    CBC Radio Canada
    “Animal protection organizations are concerned about a bill under consideration in the House of Commons which, if adopted, would severely penalize trespassing on farms that could expose animals to diseases or toxic substances.” Read the full story here
  • Survey says Canadians want cage-free eggs but purchase choices don’t agree
    July 25, 2023
    Manitoba Co-operator
    “In a survey of more than 1,000 Canadians, 72 per cent of respondents said Canada’s code of practice should ban caged confinement of laying hens.” Read the full story here

  • A new beginning for animal welfare?
    July 10, 2023
    CBA National
    “Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada, says it took about 20 years of lobbying to start modernizing the Criminal Code‘s animal cruelty provisions — a process that’s still incomplete.” Read the full story here

  • ‘Those dogs are terrified.’ Puppy mills can leave lasting damage, animal advocates say. But they aren’t banned by any province
    July 2, 2023
    Toronto Star
    “Humane Canada estimates the number is in the thousands but there are no definitive statistics.” Read the full story here

  • Province kicks in $1 million for first-of-its-kind SPCA facility in Duncan
    June 29, 2023
    Victoria News
    “We look forward to be able to share data with our partners in Humane Canada on the successes we are inevitably are going to see.” Read the full story here

  • Canada’s ban on animal testing of cosmetics lauded by B.C. organizations
    June 29, 2023
    City News
    “Nationally, the CEO of Humane Canada says the legislative change is a huge win and a result of what humane societies have been striving toward for more than 10 years.” Read the full story here

  • ‘Long overdue’: Cosmetic testing on animals now banned in Canada
    June 23, 2023
    Global News
    Quoted tweet from Humane Canada. Read the full story here

  • Bill S-5 Strengthens Canada’s Environmental Protection
    June 15, 2023
    The Mirage
    “This is a watershed moment-history has been made in the on-going efforts to end animal suffering and make Canada a more humane country.” Read the full story here

  • Animal Use in Toxicity Testing to End
    June 14, 2023
    Horse Journals
    “Humane Canada, its partners, and diligent champions in Parliament who worked hard for these amendments, have all been instrumental in ensuring this bill addresses animals, to end their suffering once and for all.” Read the full story here

  • Humane Canada CEO, Barbara Cartwright, discusses the ACT Project
    May 30, 2023
    The Sam Laprade Show, CityNews Ottawa
    “About 50 per cent of women delay leaving because they don’t have a solution for their animals.” Listen to full story here at the 35:30 minute mark

  • 21 puppies and dogs arrive in Hamilton in search of forever homes
    May 15, 2023
    InSauga
    “Puppy mills are “inhumane high-volume breeding facilities that put profit above welfare,” according to Humane Canada,” Read the full story here

  • Canada to Ban Cosmetic Testing on Animals
    May 1, 2023
    City Life
    “Canada’s commitment in the budget to ban cosmetic testing was critical because it is not required. It is unnecessary. It is cruel and painful. It causes suffering and death in animals and all for beauty products,” Read the full story here

  • Some pet owners forced to choose: Feed Fido or yourself?
    April 28, 2023
    The National
    “We are at a crisis breaking-point right now. It went from being concerned about seeing more animals come in, to sounding the alarm bells.” Watch the full story here

  • Updated dairy code of practice will see improvements for more than a million cows across Canada
    April 28, 2023
    Farms.com
    “Some notable advancements in this new Code include improved social interactions for dairy cattle and a path to eliminating tie stalls, as well as requirements for farmers to take action when they see signs their herd is not doing well overall.” Read the full story here

  • Updated dairy cattle code will see improvements for more than a million cows in Canada
    April 25, 2023
    The Abbotsford News
    “Kristina Koehn Merchant, marketing and communications manager at Humane Canada, acknowledged the improvements, as well as pointing out a few areas that need work.” Read the full story here

  • Calf housing, stocking rate changes likely to affect Manitoba dairy farms
    April 18, 2023
    Manitoba Co-operator
    “The changes garnered praise from Humane Canada, a federation of humane societies and societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals. Humane Canada is one of the founding members of the council and sat on the committee that oversaw the code’s revision.” Read the full story here

  • Humane Canada is bringing Cat Daddies to Victoria!
    April 14, 2023
    My Van City
    ““We’re excited to bring cat lovers together for such a special film and an equally special cause,” said Melissa Devlin, Manager of Annual Donor Relations & Engagement.” Read the full story here

  • Canada Eyes Ban on Animal Testing for Cosmetics
    April 10, 2023
    CTV News Vancouver
    “We are really pleased to see that this government is serious by putting this intention in the budget bill.” Watch the full interview here

  • Ontario pet owners can now access virtual care through their smartphones, connecting with a licensed veterinarian without leaving their homes
    April 10, 2023
    National Post
    “Ontarians were among the most active pet adopters in the country during the early stages of the pandemic. For example, Humane Canada says Toronto had the highest number of cat adoptions in the country.” Read the full story here

  • Dairy code approved
    April 10, 2023
    Ontario Farmer
    ““The new code provides important updated standards for the welfare of dairy cattle in Canada,” said Dr. Jeffrey Rushen, Humane Canada representative on the dairy cattle Code Development Committee.” Read the full story here

  • TELUS Health brings virtual veterinary care to cats and dogs in Ontario with MyPet
    April 4, 2023
    Financial Post
    “This is especially important for example with newly-adopted cats transitioning to their ‘forever’ homes – according to Humane Canada, Toronto has the highest number of cat adoptions of any city in the country.” Read the full story here

  • Ban on animal testing for cosmetics
    April 3, 2023
    630CHED Radio
    “We know that most people don’t want to think about it because is causes pain, suffering, and death for what amounts to be beauty products and is really very unnecessary because there are many alternatives.” Listen to the full story here

  • Canada’s animal testing ban proposal applauded by humane societies
    April 3, 2023
    City News
    ““There’s about 20,000 chemicals out there that are used on a regular basis in cosmetics and they’ve all been tested on animals already, there’s no need to keep doing it. So this will stop that,” explained Barbara Cartwright, the CEO of Humane Canada, which is the country’s federation of SPCAs and humane societies.” Read the full story here

  • Continuous tie-stall housing to be phased out in new dairy code of practice
    March 31, 2023
    Canadian Cattleman
    ““Overall we feel positive about the improvements in the code,” said Kathy Duncan, director of national programs with Humane Canada.” Read the full story here

  • Updated Dairy Code of Practice released
    March 30, 2023
    Farmtario
    ““The new Code provides important updated standards for the welfare of dairy cattle in Canada,” said Dr. Jeffrey Rushen, Humane Canada representative on the dairy cattle Code Development Committee. ” Read the full article here

  • Canada eyes ban on animal testing for cosmetics. What are the alternatives?
    Global News
    March 30, 2023
    ““Canada’s commitment yesterday in the budget to ban cosmetic testing was critical because it is not required, it is unnecessary, it is cruel and painful, it causes suffering and death in animals and all for beauty products,” said Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada, in an interview on Wednesday with Global News.” Read the full story here

  • Ban on animal testing for cosmetics in Canada will be a reality
    Toronto Sun
    March 29, 2023
    ““Parliament is finally taking a stand against the needless pain and suffering associated with cosmetic testing on animals,” said Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada, in a statement.” Read the full story here

  • Federal budget includes prohibiting cosmetic testing on animals
    CJWW Radio
    March 29, 2023
    “Humane Canada is pleased with a section of the federal budget that not many may not be aware of. CEO Barbara Cartwright says it includes long awaited provisions to ban cosmetic testing on animals.” Read the full story here

  • NAR operating pet food bank for those in need
    saskNow
    March 20, 2023
    “Northern Animal Rescue (NAR) is the recipient of a $5,000 grant from Humane Canada.” Read the full article here

  • A ‘perfect storm’ has more Canadians surrendering pets
    CHCH Evening News at 6
    March 12, 2023
    “Whether it is because they can no longer afford their soaring rent, a rent eviction or because they were already vulnerably housed, it is very difficult in many parts of the country to rent when you have a pet.” Watch the full story on Part One of the March 12, 2023 episode, beginning at 9:55, here

  • Animal advocacy groups calling for provincial action after orca dies at Marineland
    March 12, 2023
    The Toronto Star
    “Animal Justice, a national animal law advocacy organization, and non-profit animal welfare agency Humane Canada wants the cause of death made public.” Read the full story here

  • Kiska ‘Loneliest Whale in the World’ dies at Marineland
    March 11, 2023
    CHCH
    “The story of Kiska is a like a slow moving, painful disaster.” Watch the full video here

  • Kiska, ‘World’s Loneliest Orca,’ Dead at Ontario Marine Park
    March 11, 2023
    People Magazine
    Quoted tweet from Humane Canada. Read the full story here

  • Kiska, Marineland’s lone killer whale and last captive orca in Canada, has died
    March 10, 2023
    The Globe and Mail
    “The group Humane Canada issued a statement about what it called Kiska’s heartbreaking life and death.” Read the full story here

  • Kiska, Marineland’s lone killer whale and last captive orca in Canada, has died
    March 10, 2023
    The Toronto Star
    ““Humane Canada is saddened and outraged by the passing of Kiska – also known as the “loneliest Orca in the world,”” Read the full story here

  • ‘Absolutely broke my heart’: Tied-up dog with deep neck wound rescued from B.C. yard
    March 08, 2023
    Times Colonist
    “Humane Canada, a national federation of SPCAs and humane societies, recommends that anyone who finds an animal in distress contact the local humane society or SPCA to report it.” Read the full story here

  • Before you surrender a pet, see what resources are out there
    March 08, 2023
    Toronto Sun
    “Humane Canada cautioned it’s important to reach out to a local shelter before you surrender your pet to see if community support is available — and it often is.” Read the full article here

  • Owners passing off pets as strays adds to stress at shelters
    March 6, 2023
    CBC The National
    “All of these strains come together into this perfect storm and then people end up having to surrender their pets. The shelters can only take on so many animals, obviously, so that is why they are sounding their alarms.” Watch the full story here

  • Humane Canada: Caring For Animals To End Cruelty To Animals
    February 28, 2023
    Canadiansme
    “Since its inception, Humane Canada has acquired a solid reputation and enviable credibility as the go-to national voice on animal welfare problems for industry, media, government, non-governmental groups, and the general public.” Read the full article here

  • Pharmacist alleges pet drug companies are keeping the cost of vet medications high
    February 15, 2023
    CTV News
    “Tara Hellewell, director of donor relations and national engagement for Humane Canada, told CTVNews.ca in a phone interview that much of the problem comes down to financial difficulties. “Unfortunately, with the greater challenges of our economic situation, there are some folks who are really struggling to afford their [pet] bills. They’re being forced to surrender their animals because they can’t afford the cost of care.”” Read the full article here

  • We Own More Dogs than Ever Before. We Didn’t Think It Through
    February 10, 2023
    The Walrus
    “And while the intake/outcome data at humane societies across the country remained largely static throughout much of 2022, the length of the animals’ stays has increased. There are many factors contributing to this, according to Barbara Cartwright, the CEO of Humane Canada, an organization that represents fifty-five humane societies and SPCAs across the country, but she points out that one of the largest has been puppy mills. ” Read the full article here

  • Canadian animal law scorecard: here’s what should happen in 2023
    January 20, 2023
    Canadian Lawyer
    “We must consider all species and their habitats to move forward. I read a legal keystone report with great interest, Toward a Humane Justice System by Humane Canada, about incorporating notions of sentience in Canadian animal legislation to protect animals and consider their interests and experiences.” Read the full article here

2022

  • Cost-sharing program helps keep pets with their owners
    December 27, 2022
    The Globe and Mail
    “Across the country, according to Humane Canada, a national federation of animal welfare groups, pet food banks are seeing more demand. Shelters across the country are also back to prepandemic capacity, and report an increasing number of owners giving up pets for economic reasons.” Read the full article here

  • Nova Scotia SPCA reports demand for services up amid high cost of living
    December 23, 2022
    Global News
    “Tara Hellewell, Humane Canada’s donor relations and national engagement director, says they recently called up all the CEOs representing members to check in on pet surrenders and other problems being faced since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.” Read the full article here

  • Stratford area humane society sheltering over 30 dogs launches appeal for help
    December 19, 2022
    The Stratford Beacon Herald
    “Tara Hellewell, the director of donor relations and national engagement at Humane Canada, a national federation of humane societies, said Monday that challenging economic conditions across the country are making pet ownership more difficult.” Read the full article here

  • Tips for travelling with pets this holiday season
    December 16, 2022
    CBC
    “If you’re wondering whether it’s a good idea to travel with animals, Kathy Duncan, director of national programs at Humane Canada, encourages people to start taking pets on trips when they’re young, and to continue doing so as they get older.” Read the full article here

  • Animal charities need support to withstand economic headwinds
    December 14, 2022
    The Globe and Mail
    “For donors, this means they can be secure in the knowledge that a gift to Humane Canada supports many aspects of animal and human welfare and that many of our shelters across the country are doing the same. A gift for animals is a gift to community,” Read the full article here

  • Economics and emotions: Inflation dealing East Coast pet owners and their furry friends a tough hand
    December 13, 2022
    Saltwire
    “Canadian Federation of Humane Societies stats for 2016 — prior to the latest inflation situation — stated housing issues were the top reason why owners surrender their cats and dogs (29 per cent of respondents).” Read the full article here

  • Humane Canada and the Holiday Season
    December 12, 2022
    Forum Daily
    “We know it is definitely a challenging time for everyone in Canada, including pet owners, and we have tried to address this. In 2021 we started a National Pet Food Bank initiative and granted over $80,000 in pet food banks across the country.”
    Watch the full interview here at the 11 minute mark

  • The gift of time is priceless to animal shelters
    November 17, 2022
    National Post
    “When it comes to caring for animals in need and building a compassionate community, it truly does take a village. According to Humane Canada’s 2020 Animal Shelter Statistics Report, there are more than 170 shelters operated by humane societies and SPCAs across Canada.” Read the full article here

  • Humane Canada’s Fall Fortunes Cash Lottery
    November 17, 2022
    INFO Simcoe
    “Humane Canada is holding it’s first-ever Fall Fortunes Cash Lottery! The organization is a federation of SCPAs & humane societies, and represents over 70 members across the country. The 50/50 style lottery draw will benefit the organization by funding their various programs, such as education, supporting shelters, and representing animals at all levels of government as advocates for animal welfare.” Watch the full interview here

  • A ‘perfect storm’ has more Canadians surrendering pets. Here’s how to help
    November 13, 2022
    Global News
    “The economic stress that’s coming, and is getting worse, is putting people at risk of not knowing what to do, where to turn and how to get help, and so they’re having to make these terrible decisions that break their heart,” Barbara Cartwright, president and CEO of Humane Canada, told the Roy Green Show. Read the full story here

  • Humane Canada CEO, Barbara Cartwright, discusses the Violence Link
    November 1, 2022
    The Sam Laprade Show, CityNews Ottawa
    “For about 7 years now, Humane Canada has been working to bring forward an understanding of the Violence Link both into our legal system and into our social safety net system.” Listen to full story here at the 35 minute mark

  • Humane Canada’s Fall Fortunes Cash Lottery will change lives!
    October 28, 2022
    Ottawa Life Magazine
    “Melissa Devlin, Manager of Annual Donor Relations and Engagement at Humane Canada, said, “This lottery is the first of its kind for Humane Canada. Our hope is to raise important funds for our work in animal welfare, while giving Ontarians the chance to win a significant cash prize just in time for the busy holiday season.” Read the full story here

  • Humane Canada cautions people against signs of puppy mills
    September 25, 2022
    City News
    “Barbara Cartwright, chief executive officer (CEO) of Humane Canada, told The Sam Laprade Show on Sept. 21 that puppy mills have substandard breeding and no regard for animal welfare. ” Read the full story here
  • Defining Effective Legal Protection For Animals
    September 16, 2022
    Faunalytics
    “In this report, Humane Canada looked at indicators of effective legal animal protection in Canada. Their findings provide valuable guidance to advocates across the world to define and develop legal protection for animals.” Read the full story here

  • How Canadians can help animal shelters struggling with capacity
    August 15, 2022
    Global News
    “Kathy Duncan, director of national programs for Humane Canada, spoke with Sharmeen Somani about how shelters across the country are struggling as the pool of animals up for adoption is getting bigger.” Watch the full segment here.
  • More ‘pandemic pets’ are ending up in shelters. Is there a fix? Experts weigh in
    July 27, 2022
    Global News
    “As inflation puts cost pressures on pet owners and many return to in-person work, several Canadians are surrendering their “pandemic pets,” which were obtained during the COVID-19 pandemic, to animal shelters. Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada, spoke with Global News Morning about the issue.” Watch the full segment here.
  • Animals shelters across Canada see a surge in pet surrenders
    July 20, 2022
    Global News
    “Global News Morning speaks with Humane Canada CEO Barbara Cartwright about why so many pet owners are giving up their animals, and what you should do if you can no longer care for your pet.” Watch the full segment here.
  • Canadian animal shelters facing “perfect storm” as more pets are being surrendered
    July 19, 2022
    Global News
    “Many shelters are either close to or are at capacity as inflation puts cost pressures on pet owners, and at the same time are seeing a rise in calls for help and a growing waitlist to bring animals in to them, said Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada, which represents Canadian humane societies and SPCAs.” Watch the full segment here.
  • Embassy of France paints town red, white and blue for Bastille Day
    July 14, 2022
    Ottawa Business Journal
    Photo: Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada, with her colleague Toolika Rastogi, senior manager of policy and research, at the Bastille Day reception hosted by the Embassy of France. Read full story here.
  • Niagara animal shelter struggling with capacity as summer adoptions slow
    July 7, 2022
    Global News
    “Humane Canada’s Cartwright also reported a shift in the types of animals coming into shelters, revealing increases in pets with behavioral and medical issues requiring more resources to make them adoptable.” Read full story here.
  • More pets being surrendered to shelters amid return to work, rising costs
    July 7, 2022
    The Alan Carter Radio Program, 640 Toronto
    Guest host Pay Chen speaks with Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada. Listen to the interview here.
  • Animal shelters stretched thin
    July 5, 2022
    CTV National News
    “We also have the economic impacts that we’re all feeling right now with the increase of inflation,” says Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada; Cartwright added, “we are seeing a vet shortage across the country. People are nervous about the fact they can’t get access, or they can no longer afford the access that they once had.” Watch the full segment here.
  • Canadian animal shelters pushing overcapacity amid inflation, staff shortages
    July 4, 2022
    CTV News
    “Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada, says overwhelming waitlists at shelters across the country, and a lack of resources such as medical support, food and foster care are creating ‘the perfect storm.’” Read full story here.
  • With heat warnings come reminders of the danger of leaving pets in vehicles
    June 15, 2022
    Global News
    Vehicle interiors, even with the windows left open a crack, can become extremely hot within a short period of time, putting animals at risk of heat-related illness, including heatstroke, and possible death. On a 21 C day, the inside of a car can reach 32 C within 10 minutes, and 37 C within 20 minutes, according to Humane Canada. Read full story here.

  • Animal welfare laws a measure of how we respect rights of humans and the environment
    May 31, 2022
    Canadian Lawyer
    How well we recognize and protect the rights of animals through our legal system is an essential measure of how we respect and protect the rights of humans and the environment, says a new report from Humane Canada. Read full story here.

  • When it comes to animal rights, report finds Canada’s legal system needs improvement
    May 1, 2022
    Vancouver is Awesome
    A new report from Humane Canada shows gaps remain when it comes to how animals are recognized in the law. Read full story here.

  • Canada’s animal safety, welfare laws ‘lacking,’ Humane Canada says
    April 21, 2022
    Veterinary Practice News
    Helping prepare a roadmap to ensure the Great White North is a safer place for animals, people, and the environment is the goal of a new release from Humane Canada. Read full story here.

  • Potential pet owners: Prepare for thousands in bills before bringing home a furbaby
    April 18, 2022
    Ottawa Sun
    Those costs are more than just pet food and toys, says Kathy Duncan, director of national programs for Humane Canada. “In the first year of ownership costs are usually higher because there are typically higher veterinary costs and startup vaccination series,” Duncan says. Read full story here.

  • Pet industry embraces opportunities as owners return to work
    April 17, 2022
    CTV News
    “COVID really demonstrated how much Canadians love animals,” said Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada, whose members include Humane Societies and SPCAs across the country.” Read full story here.

  • Trying to put pet food security on better footing with a National Pet Food Bank Program
    April 12, 2022
    Morning News
    “Humane Canada is a federation of SPCAs and humane societies. It’s trying to put pet food security on better footing with a national pet food bank program. We talk to Barbara Cartwright who is the CEO of Humane Canada.” Listen to full story here at the 30 minute mark.

  • They fought a zoo — Ontario towns grapple with exotic animal owner
    January 30, 2022
    Morning News
    “This makes it impossible to even estimate how many animals are kept in captivity in backyards or roadside zoos, according to Kathy Duncan, director of national programs with Humane Canada, a national organization representing SPCAs and humane societies.” Read full story here.

  • Canada Pet Ownership Statistics to Know in 2022: How Many Canadians have Pets?January 12, 2022
    The Comfy Shop
    “The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies maintains a database of pet ownership laws in each province and territory.” Read full story here.

  • 10 Canada Animal Shelter Statistics & Facts to Know in 2022
    January 10, 2022
    Pet Keen
    “Humane Canada reported the lowest euthanization rates ever, with only 10% of dogs in shelters being euthanized. Of this number, only 2% were healthy dogs that could not find homes.” Read full story here.

2021

  • In Some Ways Animals Fared Better During COVID
    December 26, 2021
    CJWW Radio
    “Humane Canada’s annual report on animal shelter statistics concludes that the pandemic caused some positive trends for companion animals.” Read full story here.

  • “It’s a lifetime commitment:” Northeast SPCA asks people to think twice before gifting a pet
    December 24, 2021
    Melfort Journal
    “According to Humane Canada, there was a 25 per cent decrease in intake of cats in 2020 compared to the previous year, and a 28 per cent decrease in dog intake.” Read full story here.

  • Cats are a hit during pandemic, according to adoption records
    December 19, 2021
    Toronto Sun
    “The number of cats adopted in Canada in 2020 was at the highest rate ever, with almost 70% of cats taken into shelters adopted. Euthanasia rates of cats were also way down, according to Humane Canada. Read full story here.

  • Positive trends for shelter animals: report
    December 14, 2021
    The Suburban
    “These statistics inspire optimism for Canada’s shelter animals” says Dr. Toolika Rastogi, Senior Manager of Policy and Research at Humane Canada and report author. “As a result of organizations pivoting to a community-centered model, we are seeing adoption increases, euthanasia decreases and more lost animals going home.” Read full story here.

  • BC dairy farm makes the news for scenes of animal abuse
    November 10, 2021
    National Newswatch
    Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada, said the situation at the Cedar Valley Farm is “next in a long line of evidence that farmed animals are suffering. The industry and government refuse to act and Humane Canada condemns their lack of action to protect animals on commercial farms.” Real full story here.

  • National animal-welfare group condemns ‘shocking footage’ at Abbotsford dairy farm
    November 5, 2021
    North Delta Reporter
    “The science is overwhelmingly clear that farmed animals are capable of cognitive thought, emotion, pain and suffering. They lack the ability to consent to or control their treatment by humans, which makes them highly vulnerable to abuse,” Cartwright said.” Read full story here.

  • Humane Canada Criticizes Cedar Valley Dairy Farm in Abbotsford on Animal Welfare, SPCA Comments
    November 5, 2021
    Fraser Valley News
    “This new report of suspected animal abuse on another BC dairy farm is just the next in a long line of evidence that farmed animals are suffering while industry and government refuse to act,” said Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada.” Read full story here.

  • Saskatchewan SPCA crafting standards to ensure rescue animal well-being
    November 2, 2021
    Global News
    “It’s an opportunity for us essentially to professionalize the industry in the sector, increase the care for those animals, ensuring that there are certain standards of care,” said Tara Hellewell, the organization’s director of donor relations and national engagement.” Read full story here.

  • Central Alberta animal shelter overwhelmed by record-setting pet surrenders
    October 23, 2021
    CityNews
    “Tara Hellewell at Humane Canada believes there could be a multitude of factors at play. “It could be economic factors, sometimes families break up, housing difficulties, the inability to bring a pet into a new home,” said Hellewell.” Read full story here.

  • Crowded with cats, Lower Mainland animal shelters are looking for forever feline families
    October 23, 2021
    CBC News
    “Barbara Cartwright, the head of Humane Canada, which represents humane societies, SPCAs and animal rescue organizations across the country, said at the end of the summer they were not seeing any notable difference in the numbers of pet surrenders among their members.” Read full story here.

  • Humane Canada Attracts More Attendees and Boosts Engagement by Going Virtual
    October 2021
    EventMobi
    “Increased attendee numbers, nurtured new connections and conversations, and delivered better value to sponsors at their virtual Humane Canada Summit for Animals (formerly the National Animal Welfare Conference). Read full story here.

  • Righting Canada’s wronged animals
    September 10, 2021
    National Magazine
    “In living memory, there hasn’t been a recognition of either the importance of animal welfare or protection. It’s clear that politicians are finally waking up to the fact that Canadians care about animals. More than 60% of Canadian homes have animals, with 90% of Canadians who own animals perceive them to be part of the family,” said Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada.Read full story here.
  • Corbella: O’Toole’s Pet policy is No Joke — It’ll Help Save Human and Animal Lives
    September 2, 2021
    Calgary Sun
    “We’re very excited. In our living memory this is the first time, to our knowledge, that a major party has included a section in their platform on animal welfare. It’s not just a line on animal welfare, but a whole section — about five pages — and then he (O’Toole) brought it out front (Monday) very boldly, which I think is an indication that politicians are really waking up to the fact that Canadian voters care about animal protection and animal welfare,” said Cartwright.” Read full story here.

  • We Spoke To A Toronto Family About Pet Adoption & Why Local Animal Shelters Are So Important
    September 1, 2021
    Narcity
    According to a 2019 report from Humane Canada, more than 100,000 cats and dogs end up in the country’s animal shelters every year.Read full story here.

  • Some animal rescues warn pet surrenders are rising as pre-pandemic life returns
    July 25, 2021
    CBC News
    “Despite these reports, the head of Humane Canada, which represents humane societies, SPCAs and animal rescue organizations across the country, says they aren’t seeing any notable difference in surrenders among their members. “In fact, in some cases, we’re seeing surrenders going down,” said CEO Barbara Cartwright.Read full story here.

  • How Accommodating Pets in Domestic Violence Shelters is Helping Save Lives
    July 9, 2021
    Toronto Star
    “We say to police officers, if you go into a domestic violence situation, look for signs of animal abuse because evidence shows they likely coexist, and to flip that around, if you are responding to an animal abuse case, look for signs of domestic violence and child abuse.” Read full story here.

  • Canada Goose Fashion Brand to Stop Using Fur by End of 2022
    June 24, 2021
    The Guardian
    “We applaud Canada Goose’s commitment to end the use of all fur by late 2022 and the leadership position they are taking in their industry,” said Barbara Cartwright, chief executive of Humane Canada.Read full story here.
  • Canada Goose Commits to Going Fur Free
    June 24, 2021
    Business Wire
    “This is a significant step forward toward building a more humane and sustainable world. We applaud Canada Goose’s commitment to end the use of all fur by late 2022 and the leadership position they are taking in their industry,” said Barbara Cartwright, CEO of Humane Canada.” Read full story here.

  • Humane Canada’s Powerful PSA Makes a Point on Disposable PPE
    June 23, 2021
    Little Black Book
    “Humane Canada’s powerful new spot shows the importance of cutting facemasks strings in order to keep wildlife protected. Since the start of the pandemic, disposable facemasks have become a day to day regularity. However, the disposing of these masks has led to animals suffering the consequences.” Read full story here.

  • ‘We felt compelled to speak up:’ Nanoose Bay dog owners demand tougher animal cruelty laws
    June 18, 2021
    Nanaimo News Now
    “Hannah Brown, the agency’s criminal justice reform program manager, said evidence shows stricter punishments and strengthened rehabilitative programs are required for animal abusers. “There’s a very clear link between abuse towards animals and violence towards human beings, and that was reflected in this case in the psychological report,” Brown said.” Read full story here.

  • How the pandemic pet boom went bust for some dog owners
    June 17, 2021
    NOW Toronto
    “Usually when puppies reach around the 10- to 12-month mark, if they haven’t received proper training or proper socialization, some owners can become frustrated and then the puppy goes back to the shelter,” says Natalia Hanson, media representative for Humane Canada, Canada’s membership-based federation of SPCAs and humane societies. “But we haven’t seen that happen yet.”  Read full story here.

  • Empty animal welfare promises a bad look for the food industry
    June 13, 2021
    Corporate Knights
    “Humane Canada reports that approximately 90% of egg-laying hens are currently held in battery cages in Canada.” Read full story here.

  • The Push to Protect Lab Animals in Canada
    June 7, 2021
    The Tyee
    “In a joint statement, Animal Justice, Humane Canada and the Canadian Society for Humane Science applauded the move as an important first step in ending the painful and often deadly practice of toxicity testing involving tens of thousands of animals each year in Canada..” Read full story here.

  • Animal sentience legislation: Canada should follow the UK
    May 28, 2021
    Canadian Lawyer
    “Recognizing sentience of animal in our legislative framework is critical…” Read full story here.

  • Pelham Cares reaches out to gardeners, pet lovers
    May 26, 2021
    The Voice of Pelham
    The LCHS received a grant of $3,500 to purchase pet food, made possible by Humane Canada.Read full story here.

  • Donation Will Help Hungry Pets Across Niagara
    May 14, 2021
    Newstalk 610 CKTB
    The Lincoln County Humane Society in St. Catharines has received a grant of $3,500 from Humane Canada, to purchase pet food for their Pet Food Bank Program.Read full story here.
  • Ottawa Humane Society recognized for high-quality animal welfare by Humane Canada
    April 23, 2021
    City News
    These organizations are caring for some of the most vulnerable in our society — animals. Standards and accreditation is a way of promoting confidence and signaling to the general public that an organization has achieved best practice and is trustworthy.” Read full story here.
  • Too many new pet owners, not enough vets make getting animal care a problem
    January 25, 2021
    CTV News
    Humane Canada says 78,000 cats and 28,000 dogs were in shelters across Canada in 2019. Sixty-five per cent of the felines and 73 per cent of dogs were either adopted or reclaimed by their owners. Read full story here.

  • Unfarming: New P.E.I. farm sanctuary offers unwanted animals a home
    January 23, 2021
    CBC News
    “We have certainly seen a growth in farm sanctuaries across Canada and this indicates to us a needed and welcome shift in the way Canadians view farmed animals.” Read full story here.

  • Courtenay-Alberni MP recognized for animal welfare leadership
    January 4, 2021
    Commox Valley Record
    The passing of this bill was a clear example of what we can achieve when we work together. It is an honour for our organization to recognize the trailblazing leaders who worked tirelessly for over five years to pass this bill. We look forward to continuing to work together towards building a more humane Canada.Read full story here.

  • Brock expert appointed to Canadian human-animal Violence Link Coalition committee
    January 19, 2021
    The Brock News
    Dr. Coulter’s expertise in this field is invaluable in ensuring the CVLC’s ambitious plans continue to be driven by evidence-based research. She joins other distinguished professionals on the committee including representatives from the RCMP, the veterinary community, women’s shelters, animal protection organizations, the judiciary and the prosecution community.Read full story here.

2020

  • ‘The reward is worth it’: For some pet adoption centres, 2020 was a banner year
    December 21, 2020
    CTV News
    We know that there is some decrease in adoptable dogs and this is unfortunately driving up some people who are just looking to breed dogs for profit. We need to do our due diligence in ensuring that we’re not inadvertently supporting a puppy mill operation, because if the demand doesn’t decrease, the supply will never decrease.Read full story here.
  • Education campaigns have drawbacks: prof
    December 17, 2020
    The Western Producer
    “It strikes me that if vets, farmers, animal welfare workers are all undergoing very similar stresses, that first of all we need to think about why that is because we’re all intersecting with animals, and second, thinking about the negotiation table, how challenging it is to come to negotiation if we lack communication, we lack understanding about each other.” Read full story here.
  • COVID surge in dog demand has shelters, breeders urging caution
    November 23, 2020
    CBC News
    Regarding adopting a dog from a humane society, SPCA, or rescue: “Several hundred applications for one dog, it’s not uncommon to see that.Read full story here.
  • Spaying, neutering and controlling feral cat populations shows compassion
    August 12, 2020
    Assiniboia Times
    “The impacts of this overpopulation are serious and include cats languishing in shelters long term, or worse, succumbing to stress-related illnesses. For cats who remain outdoors, risk of disease transmission, as well as illness, injury and death are daily realities.” Read full story here.

  • Bill 156: Security from trespass or ag-gag?
    July 9, 2020
    The Lawyer’s Daily
    Welfare and treatment of farm animals is one of the focuses of Humane Canada. It recently posted on social media that the fight is not over, “… we will continue to oppose AG Gag Bills that are already being drafted in other provinces.Read full story here.
  • Pets, vets, vaccines and the pandemic: Animal and human health entwined more than ever in COVID times
    July 3, 2020
    Capital Current
    “We expected that there were going to be more animals surrendered to shelters because as people started to lose their jobs, …….we were expecting them to not be able to afford veterinary care, food and medication for their pets.” Read full story here.
  • Former staff, volunteers and adopters allege EJ Rescue hoarded dogs, hid info and failed to supply proper care
    June 29, 2020
    CBC Calgary
    Humane Canada says there needs to be a comprehensive animal welfare law and regulation that governs animals in Canada“. Read full story here.
  • N.B. animals shelters struggle financially amid COVID-19 pandemic
    June 15, 2020
    Global News
    “Animal shelters have been denied local emergency funding for charities because animal welfare isn’t included in the funding criteria and funding shelters is not considered a priority. Read full story here.
  • The New Reality: The appeal of the pandemic puppy
    May 31, 2020
    Global News
    “Humane Canada reports adoption numbers are up between 20 and 60 per cent across the country during ongoing pandemic…..the breeders have also seen an increase in demand, with litters selling out months before conception.Read full story here
  • More pet cats getting abandoned amid housing crunch: Vancouver Orphan Kitten Rescue Association
    May 31, 2020
    Global News
    “Extrapolating the data provided by Humane Canada projected that more than 600,000 homeless cats in Canadian shelters did not find new homes in 2011.” Read full story here.
  • PetSmart Charities of Canada announces $20,000 grant for animal welfare groups
    May 19, 2020
    Franchise Info
    Humane Canada strengthen local support for communities through access to veterinary services, pet food banks, and compassionate boarding for pet owners suffering from COVID-19 or fleeing domestic violence.” Read full story here.
  • Should you adopt a pet during the COVID-19 pandemic?
    April 16, 2020
    Global News
    “We suggest people should have an emergency preparedness plan for their pets during the pandemic……the suggestions include preparing an emergency kit for pets.” Read full story here.
  • Canadians urged to include pets in their emergency plans
    April 8, 2020
    The Globe and Mail
    Humane Canada suggests making sure that their furry friends observe social distancing from other animals and humans because in rare cases the animal can become infected as well.” Read full story here.
  • Canadians must include pets in coronavirus emergency plans, advocates say
    April 8, 2020
    Global News
    “Humane Canada, which represents humane societies and SPCAs across the country urges Canadians to consider their pets as part of their COVID-19 emergency preparedness.” Read full story here.

2019

  • ‘She will reoffend,’ say animal rights advocates after April Irving given lifetime ban in one province
    Dec. 13, 2019
    CBC Saskatchewan
    “It’s very easy for people who hoard or puppy mill operators to be charged and convicted in one province — and move to the next. And we see that very clearly in the April Irving case.” Read full story here.
  • The Pet Expert: New Animal Cruelty Laws Being Introduced in Ontario
    Nov. 7, 2019
    The Meaford Independent
     “Crown prosecutor training is a breakthrough for Ontario in animal welfare….. It will strengthen relationships between enforcement and Crown leading to more convictions for animal abusers.” Read full story here.
  • Ontario to introduce new animal welfare legislation
    Oct. 29, 2019
    CTV News
    “It is important to train prosecutors in animal cruelty cases……as it strengthens relationships between enforcement and Crown leading to more convictions for animal abusers.” Read full story here.
  • Ontario introduces tougher penalties for animal abuse
    Oct. 29, 2019
    The Star
    “The extra training for Crowns was hailed as a “breakthrough in Ontario for animal welfare” by Barbara Cartwright, chief executive of Humane Canada.” Read full story here.
  • Opinion: Why the CFL’s Grey Cup rodeo is a huge marketing blunder
    Sept. 23, 2019
    DailyHive
    “Animal welfare organizations including, Humane Canada work towards the ultimate abolition of the rodeo’s narrow cultural appeal.” Read full story here.
  • Humane Canada Applauds Passing of Bill C-84 by Senate of Canada
    June 19, 2019
    Canada Newswire
    “Bill C-84 gives prosecutors the ability to bring charges of animal abuse and sexual assault where in the past, they could not,” says Barbara Cartwright, CEO, Humane Canada.Read full story here.
  • “Chicken Whisperer” Receiving Prestigious National Animal Welfare Award For His Pioneer Research
    April 8, 2019
    Canada Newswire
    “This award, which has been given out since 1985, acknowledges outstanding contributions to animal welfare in Canada…Read full story here.
  • Many animal welfare workers suffer from compassion fatigue: Humane Canada
    March 6, 2019
    Global News
    The people who work hard to help animals in crisis are becoming vulnerable themselves. It comes with sleeplessness, nightmares a general irritability and unhappiness.Read full story here.