Advocating for animals through community care and compassion
Understanding Parvovirus A Fatal but Preventable Disease
Don’t Kitnap Kittens How to Help Found Kittens the Right Way This Kitten Season
Why Diversity Matters in Veterinary Medicine From Access to Impact
As we welcome the arrival of spring, I find myself reflecting on the incredible momentum we’ve built together—and feeling energized by the possibilities that lie ahead.
This marks the first issue of Animal Talk for 2025, and it comes at a time of exciting growth for Toronto Humane Society. Last year, thanks to your unwavering support, we made great strides in improving animal welfare across our city and beyond. From expanding our training and behaviour offerings to helping more animals through our Public Veterinary Services, your generosity made it all possible.
But we’re not stopping here.
With your continued partnership, we’re setting our sights even higher for the year ahead. We’re proud to be launching additional group training classes— accessible, effective programming that helps keep pets in loving homes. We’re continuing to host two Community Days each month, where people and pets can access vital pet supplies and compassionate care. And yes, we’re even laying the groundwork for further expansion of our veterinary services —bringing accessible care to even more pet families.
These are big goals. But with you behind us, they’re entirely within reach.
As always, our mission remains rooted in compassion: to improve the lives of animals. Our approach is holistic— centered around care, education, advocacy, and support—because animal welfare isn’t just about what happens within our shelter walls. It’s about meeting people where they are, removing barriers, and building a future where every animal has the chance to thrive.
In this issue, you’ll find stories that reflect this vision in action: a spotlight on preventable diseases like parvovirus, a powerful feline training success story, and a deep dive into why diversity matters in animal welfare. You’ll also hear from our team about the growing number of kittens arriving during “kitten season”—and what we can all do to help, starting with something as vital as spaying or neutering pets.
To each of you reading this—our monthly donors, our supporters, our advocates—thank you. Your generosity is not only saving lives.; it’s shaping the future of animal welfare in this city.
Let’s make 2025 a year of even greater impact. Together, we can.
Warm regards,
Phil Nichols, RVT, CAWA Chief Executive Officer Toronto Humane Society
02. A Message from Our CEO A Vision for 2025 and Beyond
04. Improving Access to Care
A heartfelt commitment to community animal welfare
06. Why Diversity Matters in Veterinary Medicine
Written by guest writer Dr. Melanie Moore
8. Access to Training and Behaviour Support Helps
Pets - And Their People - Thrive at Home
By offering accessible resources that strengthen the human-animal bond, we’re helping families stay together
10. Dr. Karen Ward Receives the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association Humane Award
A Visionary for Veterinary Medicine and Animal Welfare
12. Understanding Parvovirus A Fatal but Preventable Disease
14. I Found a Litter of Kittens - What Do I Do?
Don’t kitnap kittens
The role of the Board of Directors is to provide governance oversight for Toronto Humane Society. Toronto Humane Society’s Board of Directors is a volunteer Board and no member of the Board receives compensation to perform their Board role.
President: Josh Shanahan
Vice President: Nabila Tisha
Chair: Adrienne MacDonald
Treasurer: Damian Creber
Assistant Treasurer: Alexandre Rochtchine
Assistant Treasurer: Roxanne Yanofsky
Secretary: Gary Milakovic
Assistant Secretary: Marcie Somers
Julie Barac
David Bronskill
Mark Dilworth
Charissa Lai
Liz Everett
Alexandra Bratton
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Phil Nichols, RVT, CAWA
EDITOR
Jessica Harwood
S. Gwynn, CFRE
Alice Murray
DESIGNER
Jessica Harwood
CONTRIBUTORS
Lauralee Dorst, RVT, CVPM
Jessica Harwood
Melanie Moore, DVM
From the Director’s Desk
Written by Lauralee Dorst, RVT, CVPM
At the heart of everything we do at Toronto Humane Society is a simple truth: pets are family. They’re companions, confidants, and in many cases, lifelines. I’ve worked in animal welfare for years now, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the human-animal bond is deeply resilient—even in the face of poverty, crisis, or housing insecurity. That belief shapes our work in Community Animal Welfare every single day.
We believe every pet deserves access to high-quality, compassionate care—regardless of their guardian’s financial situation. And we know that most people want to do right by their pets; they just need support. That’s why our programs are designed to meet families where they are—literally and figuratively—and to remove the barriers that prevent pets from receiving care or remaining in their homes.
In August 2023, we launched our second medical clinic at our 11 River Street location—the S-Clinic. This clinic allowed us to offer more affordable spay/ neuter surgeries, dental care, and wellness services to members of the public, many of whom had been struggling to find timely or affordable veterinary care.
By making these services more accessible, we’re helping families prevent emergency situations before they arise. Because sometimes, an unaffordable dental cleaning today becomes a painful, life-threatening infection tomorrow. Since opening, the S-Clinic has played a key role in helping us care for over 15,000 animals in 2024 alone. That number represents more than just pets—it represents the families, guardians,
and communities who rely on us to keep their animals safe and healthy.
This year, we’ve also been increasing our presence through Community Pop-Up Wellness Clinics, which bring veterinary care directly to underserved neighbourhoods. These one-day clinics provide basic services—like vaccinations, microchips, and wellness exams—to families who may not otherwise be able to travel to our shelter or access a private veterinary appointment. The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re exploring options to scale this work even further, including a satellite location to reach even more families.
Our commitment to community support extends beyond medical care. Through our Training and Behaviour team, we’ve developed a range of group classes and one-on-one services that help families understand their pets and build trust-based relationships.
This part of our work is especially close to my heart. I’ve seen countless transformations happen in our training rooms: a timid dog who wouldn’t make eye contact on day one learning to confidently take a treat from a stranger by week three; a frustrated pet parent, ready to give up, discovering the joy of communication and partnership with their animal.
We offer everything from Foundation Skills to Agility, Scent Detection, and Recall, with new class formats and locations being added all the time. Because training is
not just about obedience—it’s about connection. And the more we empower people to connect with their pets, the stronger their bond becomes.
To support even more families, we also introduced online learning courses designed to meet people where they are—whether that’s at home after work or on their phone during a commute. These self-paced resources cover everything from common behaviour concerns to enrichment tips. We’ve already had 77 pet guardians register since launching earlier this year, which tells us loud and clear: people are eager to learn. We just need to make the knowledge accessible.
A pet’s wellbeing is often a reflection of their family’s wellbeing. That’s why our Pet Parent Support Network is such a vital part of our community strategy. In 2024, this network has already helped over 3,600 families by offering behavioural consultations, training resources, food and supplies, and emergency veterinary referrals.
What makes this program so special is how human it is. Whether someone calls us looking for advice on their dog’s sudden change in behaviour, or walks through our doors needing food and flea prevention, they’re met with kindness and without judgment. They’re met by someone who sees their love for their pet and wants to help them preserve that relationship.
Our Community Days are another important piece of this work. Held twice a month, these events provide families in need with free pet supplies—everything from collars and harnesses to beds and enrichment toys. And it’s not just about the items; it’s about the sense of care and community that comes with them. When people come to a Community Day, they’re greeted with smiles, given time and attention, and reminded that they are not alone.
Our Pet Food Bank, open daily, has been a lifesaver for many families this year. With the cost of living rising and economic uncertainty impacting so many households, we’ve distributed thousands of pounds of pet food to ensure no animal goes hungry and no one has to choose between feeding themselves or their pet.
This work wouldn’t be possible without our dedicated volunteers, who have donated over 300 hours of service this year alone. Their commitment and compassion are the heartbeat of this program, and I’m constantly inspired by the relationships they build with the families they support.
Urgent Care: A Lifeline in Times of Crisis
One of the programs I’m most proud of is our Urgent Care Program, which provides temporary
foster placement and veterinary support for pets whose guardians are facing short-term crises— such as hospitalization, fleeing domestic violence, or experiencing homelessness.
These are families who love their animals fiercely but are forced into impossible situations. In the past, these challenges often resulted in pet surrender. But our Urgent Care Program offers a different path—one that keeps families intact. In 2024, we’ve supported 95 families and cared for 119 beloved pets through this program.
The impact is profound. I’ve spoken with guardians who said that knowing their pet was safe gave them the strength to focus on their own healing. One woman, fleeing an abusive partner, told us that her dog had been her only constant through years of instability. Placing him in our Urgent Care foster program meant she could finally access shelter and counseling services. That’s the kind of ripple effect this work creates—not just safety for pets, but hope and healing for people.
As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the need is growing, and so is our response. We are listening to our communities. We are expanding our services. We are constantly reimagining what it means to support people and their pets.
Because true animal welfare is about more than rescue—it’s about prevention. It’s about education, access, dignity, and trust. It’s about giving families the tools they need to stay together and thrive.
And it’s about recognizing that the well-being of animals is deeply connected to the well-being of people. That’s the heart of our work. That’s what keeps me going every day. And that’s what drives our mission forward.With continued support from our community, partners, and advocates like you, I know we can create a more compassionate future for pets and their people—together.
About Lauarlee Dorst, RVT, CVPM Director, Community Animal Welfare
Lauralee Dorst is a seasoned professional in animal welfare and veterinary care, known for her exceptional skills in emergency medicine and general veterinary practice. She began her journey at Toronto Humane Society in 2012 as a frontline Registered Veterinary Technician. Over the years, she has excelled in various roles, contributing significantly to our Foster Program, Animal Transport, and Animal Admissions departments, showcasing her dedication to our community’s animals. In 2024, Lauralee assumed the role of Director, overseeing all community welfare programs Her unwavering commitment to animal welfare is truly commendable.
Written by Dr. Melanie Moore, DVM
Given the current political climate, there is an undeniable threat to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The very efforts we have worked tirelessly to establish, fostering a more inclusive profession, are at risk of being dismantled without a full appreciation of the critical role diversity plays in veterinary medicine. DEI is facing overt attacks in both social and political spheres, with initiatives that have taken years to build now at risk of vanishing overnight, undermining progress for future generations. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted several factors that united the veterinary profession, one of which was our commitment to DEI. While society may remain divided, we as a profession persevered through the pandemic’s challenges, providing quality care, addressing systemic inequities, and supporting marginalized veterinary professionals. Moving forward, we must continue to unify our efforts to create a more accessible profession that not only supports our colleagues but enhances patient care by fostering diversity.
Cultural competence in veterinary medicine refers to the ability to understand, respect, and communicate with clients, colleagues, and communities from diverse cultural backgrounds. As veterinary professionals, it’s crucial to be aware of our implicit biases and educate ourselves on the varying cultural beliefs and practices related to animal care. Veterinary medicine must move beyond a “one size fits all” approach—only through adaptability can we ensure equitable care for all communities.
My experience volunteering in remote, marginalized communities has broadened my understanding of cultural competence. While working in Samoa, a Polynesian island nation in the South Pacific, I learned that dogs—viewed as community animals—are seen differently than household pets in Western cultures. Understanding these cultural nuances allowed me to offer relevant, culturally respectful care and ensure that my approach to veterinary medicine was adaptable rather than imposing Western standards.
Understanding that different cultures may not prioritize routine veterinary visits as Western clients do was a valuable learning experience. Working in resourcelimited settings, I developed transferable skills, including performing high-volume sterilization surgeries without basic amenities like electricity, utilizing multimodal
pain relief through dry and electroacupuncture, and managing region-specific diseases with limited resources. These experiences broadened my perspective, reinforcing the importance of approaching clients with empathy and respect. Rather than imposing Western norms or the conventional ‘gold standard’ taught in veterinary schools, I strive to educate clients on preventative care in a way that aligns with their cultural values and beliefs.
Working in resource-limited settings has sharpened my adaptability and problem-solving skills. My experiences volunteering in Poland during the RussianUkrainian war, treating traumatized animals with diseases not common in North America, highlighted the importance of using available resources effectively. These experiences have enhanced my ability to work in environments where cost and accessibility are barriers, especially when working with clients who speak languages other than English. The challenges of conveying complex medical diagnoses through non-verbal cues and translation tools have shaped my communication skills—skills that are invaluable when working with marginalized communities in North America.
Veterinary care is inherently diverse, as we interact with clients from all backgrounds. Representation in veterinary medicine fosters trust in the clientveterinarian relationship by promoting better communication and understanding. With cultural competence, we can approach each client with empathy and respect, understanding that different cultures have distinct views on pet care. For example, some clients may have strong religious or cultural beliefs that influence their decisions on treatments such as euthanasia. Respecting these viewpoints while providing evidence-based guidance is essential in building trust.
Working in resource-limited settings has sharpened my adaptability and problem-solving skills. My experiences volunteering in Poland during the RussianUkrainian war, treating traumatized animals with diseases not common in North America, highlighted the importance of using available resources effectively. These experiences have enhanced my ability to work in environments where cost and accessibility are barriers, especially when working with clients who speak languages other than English. The challenges of conveying complex medical diagnoses through non-verbal cues and translation tools have shaped my communication skills—skills that are invaluable when working with marginalized communities in North America.
Veterinary care is inherently diverse, as we interact with clients from all backgrounds. Representation in veterinary medicine fosters trust in the clientveterinarian relationship by promoting better communication and understanding. With cultural competence, we can approach each client with empathy and respect, understanding that different cultures have distinct views on pet care. For example, some clients may have strong religious or cultural beliefs that influence their decisions on treatments such as euthanasia. Respecting these viewpoints while providing evidence-based guidance is essential in building trust.
Furthermore, having bilingual or multilingual team members can enhance communication, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring accurate exchanges. This fosters a holistic approach to care that not only emphasizes medical treatment but also emotional support. Empathy for diverse backgrounds and challenges reduces unconscious bias and promotes more inclusive, compassionate care, ultimately leading to more patient-centered outcomes.
Cultural incompetence arises when veterinary professionals lack awareness or sensitivity to diverse cultural backgrounds. This can lead to miscommunication and barriers that negatively impact patient care. Addressing these challenges requires ongoing DEI training, awareness and commitment to change. By recognizing our biases and assumptions, we can work toward a more inclusive and equitable approach to care. Incorporating DEI training into veterinary education and professional development ensures that veterinary professionals are equipped to communicate effectively and provide respectful, culturally sensitive care to all clients, regardless of their background.
Allyship plays a vital role in fostering an inclusive veterinary profession. Allies can contribute by partnering with DEI groups, amplifying diverse voices, and working to make veterinary care more accessible to underrepresented groups. Understanding the unique perspectives each of us brings to the profession is crucial, as we work to move beyond the ‘gold standard’ treatments and create accessible care that minimizes barriers. While ‘gold standard’ care is not inherently bad—indeed, it enables us to provide the best possible care—it can impose barriers for some clients. Choosing alternative treatment protocols doesn’t indicate inadequate care; rather, it shows our ability to use available resources, finances, and tools to provide the best care within our reach, without discrimination. Allyship is not about standing by passively, but about actively contributing to the profession’s growth and inclusivity.
In light of the current political discourse questioning the value of DEI initiatives, it is more critical than ever that we ensure underrepresented groups—particularly Black, Indigenous, and people of color—are not excluded from opportunities in veterinary medicine. As divisiveness becomes more prevalent, we must reflect on what unites us and make our profession more inclusive. By striving to provide comprehensive care on a global scale, we open doors for all, ensuring that the future of veterinary medicine remains diverse, accessible, and representative of the communities we serve.
To build a veterinary profession that endures, we must view diversity not as a mere buzzword but as a fundamental pillar that ensures the profession stays relevant and accessible for generations to come. We must ask ourselves: Do we want to be part of a profession that evolves to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse society, or will we allow outdated norms to hold us back from progress?
True change happens when we embrace discomfort, challenge the status quo, and commit to doing better— not just for ourselves, but for the future of veterinary medicine. The choice is ours.
Guest Writer
Born and raised in the Cayman Islands, Dr. Moore earned her BSc in Animal Science from Aberystwyth University (2016) and her DVM from Ontario Veterinary College (2021). She is dedicated to making veterinary care accessible, both locally and globally. Dr. Moore’s passion lies in serving underserved communities, ensuring that pets and their owners can receive the care they need regardless of barriers. Her international work has taken her to Nepal, Thailand, Poland, and Samoa, where she has volunteered in remote communities to provide vital veterinary aid and education. Currently, Dr. Moore works at a private small animal clinic, while actively collaborating with local shelters and organizations to support accessibility in veterinary care.
Advocacy means more than speaking up—it means stepping up. By offering accessible resources that strengthen the human-animal bond, we’re helping families stay together, even through new challenges.
Keeping pets with their families is one of the most impactful ways we can support our community. That’s why we offer training and behaviour services not just for dogs, but for cats, too. Our feline-focused training classes provide expert guidance on introductions, behaviour challenges, and general support—ensuring smoother transitions and stronger bonds for every family.
One of our recent success stories comes from Adrian and his partner, Waseem, who reached out to Claire Blumenthal, CPDT-KA, Senior Certified Trainer and Behaviour Education Associate, Public Training Services, in September 2024. They were seeking support while introducing their newly adopted cat, Ivy, to their resident cat, Heather.
Introducing two cats can be a delicate process—one that, without the right tools, can cause stress and strain on the household. But with access to expert help, families don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Claire worked closely with Adrian and Waseem, offering a step-by-step plan that prioritized a safe and thoughtful transition. The strategy included creating a sanctuary space for Ivy and using desensitization and counterconditioning techniques to help the cats adjust to each other’s presence gradually. The first meetings were done through a door, slowly progressing to faceto-face interactions.
By December, Adrian and Waseem shared the happy news—Heather and Ivy had not only adjusted but had formed a bond. Their home was harmonious, and their family, whole. Adrian expressed deep appreciation for the support they received:
“We had a fantastic experience working with Claire on our problem cat behaviours. She was kind, attentive, and very knowledgeable. We would highly recommend this service to anyone looking for effective and affordable pet advice.”
This is what advocacy in action looks like: giving families the tools and support they need to overcome obstacles and stay together. Whether you’re introducing a new cat, navigating behaviour issues, or just looking to deepen your relationship with your pet, our training services are here to help.
To further empower pet guardians in our community, we also offer online educational classes designed to meet you wherever you are. The Pet Parent Guide to Cat Guardianship and The Pet Parent Guide to Dog Guardianship are self-paced courses covering common behaviour, health, wellness, and enrichment topics. Participants gain valuable insights into animal communication—especially canine body language—and receive downloadable PDFs, videos, and a certificate of completion. As an added bonus, those who complete the dog course receive $20 off a future dog adoption. It’s education that not only helps animals thrive, but helps families grow.
We invite pet parents to explore our Public Training and Behaviour cat consultations and packages. Tailored to each cat’s unique personality and needs, this support ensures more pets stay in loving homes— where they belong.
Spread the word—our training team isn’t just for dogs. We’re here for all pets, and all families. Visit www.torontohumanesociety.com/training to get started.
In 2024, Dr. Karen Ward, Chief Veterinary Officer at Toronto Humane Society, was awarded the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) Humane Award—a prestigious honour that recognizes outstanding contributions to the welfare of animals. The recognition is a testament to Dr. Ward’s profound dedication to improving animal welfare through her unique blend of compassion, advocacy, and innovative thinking. But as she shared in a recent interview, her journey in veterinary medicine and animal welfare is far from conventional, and her vision for the future is as inspiring as it is transformative.
Dr. Ward’s passion for veterinary medicine dates back to her childhood. Like many in the field, she was one of those kids who always dreamed of becoming a vet. Her interest was fueled by a fascination with biology and medicine, fields that provided endless opportunities for learning, growth, and challenge.
“I was always drawn to the sciences and fascinated by biology,” Dr. Ward recalls. “I wanted to enter a profession where learning never stops, where you’re always growing and being challenged.” This drive for continuous learning has been a defining feature of her career, pushing her to stay at the forefront of veterinary advancements and improving care for animals in ways that also benefit the communities around them.
Dr. Ward’s professional philosophy is grounded in the concept of “One Health, One Welfare,” which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. “I view animals, the environment, and people as all having equal value. We are all integral and part of each other,” she says. This philosophy shapes her approach to both veterinary care and her broader advocacy efforts. Her belief is that animal welfare doesn’t exist in isolation but is deeply connected to how we treat our planet and each other.
Her passion for environmental sustainability and her stance on responsible consumption reflect this interconnected worldview. As a long-time vegetarian, Dr. Ward believes that how we interact with animals and the environment has a direct impact on the health of the planet. “We need to care for animals, the environment, and each other. It’s not just about us exploiting the world for our lifestyle,” she explains. Her dedication to a sustainable future informs many of her decisions, both personally and professionally.
Among Dr. Ward’s many contributions to animal welfare, her work with First Nations communities stands out. Through pop-up wellness and surgical clinics, she has helped bring much-needed veterinary care to underserved areas. These clinics, developed in partnership with Indigenous communities, have provided critical services while respecting the cultural context and needs of the people they serve. “We don’t just arrive, do the work, and leave. It’s a partnership with the community,” she emphasizes. This collaborative model is an essential part of Dr. Ward’s vision for improving access to veterinary care.
One particularly impactful outcome of her work has been addressing heartworm in communities where veterinary services are scarce. Through community partnership clinics, it was discovered that heartworm—a disease not commonly seen in wellserved areas—was prevalent in certain underserved communities. By working with community members and adapting treatment protocols, a more accessible model for heartworm prevention and treatment was created, ensuring that more animals could receive the care they needed.
Dr. Ward’s contributions to advancing veterinary medicine extend beyond her work in Indigenous communities. As part of the University of Wisconsin
and University of California, Davis Shelter Medicine Fellowship program, she has mentored shelter veterinarians and helped improve shelter practices across North America. Her work has led to the development of more accessible treatments, shortening recovery times for conditions like heartworm, which in turn improves the mental health and welfare of animals.
Her vision is not just about providing top-tier care to individual animals but about creating systems that allow more animals and people to access veterinary services. “The advancements in medical care are wonderful, but they leave many pets and people outside of a veterinary-client-patient relationship,” she observes. Dr. Ward believes that one of the greatest challenges facing veterinary professionals today is finding ways to expand access to care, especially for underserved populations.
Despite her impressive achievements, Dr. Ward is quick to share the credit with her colleagues and community partners. “I didn’t do this alone. Everything we’ve accomplished is the result of teamwork,” she insists. From fellow veterinarians such as Dr. Linda Jacobson, Director of Science and Advancement and Phil Nichols, Chief Executive Officer, to community volunteers, Dr. Ward recognizes the importance of collaboration in achieving meaningful, lasting change in animal welfare.
Looking ahead, Dr. Ward remains hopeful but acknowledges the challenges the veterinary profession faces. From navigating the impacts of climate change to addressing the increasing demand for advanced medical care, she believes that the future of veterinary medicine will require creative, inclusive solutions that prioritize accessibility and sustainability.
For those considering a career in veterinary medicine, Dr. Ward offers a piece of heartfelt advice: “Explore it first. Volunteer. Understand what the work is really like before you start the long educational journey.” Her words underscore the importance of finding a path that aligns with one’s strengths and passions—a path that can truly make a positive impact on the world.
As Dr. Karen Ward continues to lead by example, her work serves as a reminder that veterinary medicine is not just about treating animals—it’s about improving lives, building communities, and caring for the planet we all share. With her holistic approach, unwavering compassion, and vision for the future, she is helping to shape a better, more compassionate world for animals and people alike.
The Pet Parent Guide to Dog or Cat Guardianship
Ready to build a stronger bond with your pet? Whether you need basic training, behaviour tips, or simply want to better understand your furry friend, our expert-led online courses make learning fun and accessible. Designed for busy pet parents, these bite-sized lessons will help you create a happier, more harmonious home for both you and your companion.
Sign up online at www.torontohumanesociety.com/ petparentcourses
Parvovirus, a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease, is a significant concern for dog pet parents. The virus primarily affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs, attacking their gastrointestinal systems. It spreads rapidly through contact with infected dogs or contaminated objects like food bowls, collars, or even the ground in areas frequented by dogs.
In a similar vein, panleukopenia, also known as feline parvovirus, poses a serious threat to kittens and unvaccinated adult cats. This highly contagious and potentially fatal virus targets their gastrointestinal systems and can spread swiftly through contact with infected cats or through excretion and secretion, such as saliva, urine and feces.
The signs of parvovirus can come on quickly and escalate rapidly, making early detection and prompt medical intervention critical. Key symptoms include:
Severe vomiting
• Lethargy or low energy
Loss of appetite
• Bloody diarrhea
Rapid dehydration
Without timely treatment, parvovirus can be fatal, particularly in young or immunocompromised dogs. The virus weakens the immune system, leaving dogs vulnerable to secondary infections, and can cause damage to the intestinal lining, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.
The good news is that parvovirus is preventable through proper vaccination. Puppies and Kittens should receive their first parvovirus vaccine as early as six to eight weeks of age, followed by booster shots every three to four weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. Adult dogs also need regular boosters to maintain immunity.
Lauralee Dorst, RVT, CVPM Director of Community Animal Welfare Programs at Toronto Humane Society, emphasizes the importance of timely vaccinations. “Parvovirus is one of the most heartbreaking diseases we see, but it’s also entirely preventable. Ensuring that puppies and dogs stay up to date on their vaccinations is the best way to keep them healthy and safe from this devastating virus.”
At Toronto Humane Society, we believe in the power of preventative care. Our Public Veterinary Services team offers a wide range of vaccines, including the essential parvovirus vaccine. Vaccinating your pets against parvovirus not only protects them but also helps stop the spread of this deadly virus to other pets in the community.
Lauralee Dorst adds, “We’re committed to making sure every pet has access to essential veterinary care. By providing accessible vaccination services, we’re giving pet parents the opportunity to protect their furry family members and help build a healthier community for all pets.”
Real Stories: The Fight Against Parvovirus at Toronto Humane Society
Remmy
Remmy first came to Toronto Humane Society through our Public Veterinary Services, showing classic signs of parvovirus. His guardian reported that he had begun vomiting and experiencing bloody
diarrhea two days prior, alongside a sudden loss of appetite and low energy. Remmy lived in a building where parvovirus was present among other dogs, and unfortunately, he had not been vaccinated.
Despite initial outpatient treatment, Remmy’s condition worsened, with continuous vomiting and diarrhea making it impossible for him to keep any food or water down. His guardian, heartbroken and unable to continue his care, made the difficult decision to surrender him to us.
Our dedicated team provided around-the-clock care for Remmy. Slowly, over five weeks of intensive treatment, he began to recover. With his strength restored, Remmy found a loving home.
Harriette and Hermann, two 10-week-old puppies, were transferred to Toronto Humane Society towards the end of their battle with parvovirus. After two weeks of constant care and monitoring, both puppies made a full recovery and were soon adopted into loving homes, a testament to the resilience of these young dogs and the lifesaving care they received.
We’ve been fortunate to avoid any cases of feline parvovirus so far this year. However, we’d like to share the story of Kovu. Kovu arrived at our shelter as a stray on December 4, 2024. From the moment he came through our doors, he was friendly and affectionate. After routine testing, his bloodwork revealed that he had Panleukopenia. He immediately received the medical care he needed, spending two weeks in treatment. Once he made a full recovery, Kovu was neutered—and soon after, he was adopted.
Stories like Remmy’s, Henriette’s, and Hermann’s remind us how vital it is to protect our pets from preventable diseases like parvovirus. Toronto Humane Society’s Public Veterinary Services team is here to help, offering access to vaccines as part of our mission to ensure all pets receive the care they need.
Lauralee Dorst underscores the importance of acting quickly: “Vaccines save lives. We want pet parents to know that by choosing to vaccinate, they’re giving their dog the best chance at a healthy, happy life.”
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Vaccinate your dog today and prevent the heartbreak of parvovirus. You can book your pet’s vaccine appointment with us online at www.torontohumanesociety.com/vet. Together, we can keep our pets healthy and our community safe from this devastating disease.
When Dodo arrived at our shelter as a senior stray, he was in rough shape. His medical exam revealed a long list of chronic conditions—interdigital cysts, allergic skin disease, dental issues, hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament injury, arthritis, and advanced kidney disease. His prognosis was palliative. But Dodo wasn’t done yet.
Thanks to our compassionate community of supporters, Dodo was placed in a loving foster home where he could receive the care, comfort, and attention he deserved. And something incredible happened—he started showing signs of improvement. It’s amazing what love and stability can do for an animal in need.
Because of people like you, Dodo is spending his golden days surrounded by warmth, care, and kindness.
