HUMANEINSIDER
Jess Diamond - Page 11
Volunteer Spotlight of the Month: Elizabeth Retter - Page 8
Trivia time - Page - 13 Tyler - Page 15
TABLE OF CONTENTS
In Honour of Booboo
Page 1, 2
Help Spread the Word: Our Spring 50/50 is Back! Page 3
Toronto Humane Society in the News: March Media Impact Recap Page 4
Pride Month at Toronto Humane Society: Uplifting Love, Identity, and the Human-Animal Connection
Page 5
Emergency Parvovirus Pop-Up Clinic and Upcoming Awareness Campaign Page 6
Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities Page 7
May Volunteer Updates Page 8, 9
Mental Health Week: Unmasking Mental Health Together Page 10
Meet the Team: Staff Q&A with Jess Diamond Page 11, 12
Thank You for Building Something Special Together Page 13, 14
Adoptable Animals Feature: Tyler Page 15
Q1 2025 Programs Impact Report - Trivia Answers Page 16, 17
Upcoming Events - June Page 18
In Honour of Booboo
In June 2024, Booboo came to us as a stray young, energetic, and unforgettable. It didn’t take long for us to realize she was facing more than just the challenges of homelessness Booboo’s behavioural needs were deeply complex, and from the very beginning, she needed the kind of care that calls on the full strength of our community.
She struggled with extreme kennel stress and soon began exhibiting significant behavioural challenges: tail- and shadow-chasing, pica, a high prey drive, and increasing reactivity Despite early placement into foster care, medical treatment, and intensive behavioural support including consultations with a veterinary behaviourist her condition progressed into a severe compulsive disorder, potentially neurochemical in nature
Booboo’s care involved every corner of this organization. She spent time in multiple foster homes, participated in the K9 Mentor Program and
was supported with a comprehensive treatment plan including structured enrichment, compassionate handling, and a full range of psychopharmaceuticals Her case was regularly reviewed by our Chief Veterinary Officer, Behaviour and Shelter Care teams, and external experts. Everyone who crossed paths with her played a role in trying to give her the best chance possible
But despite immense effort and dedication, Booboo’s quality of life continued to decline The joyful moments though real and meaningful were increasingly overshadowed by distress Her adoption trials ended abruptly, and nine rescue organizations reviewed her case without being able to provide a safe path forward
Following a second consultation with a boardcertified veterinary behaviourist and much internal reflection, the difficult decision was made
to end her suffering On May 14, Booboo crossed the Rainbow Bridge peacefully, surrounded by people who loved her deeply. Her final days included a familiar foster sleepover, a pool party, her favourite toys, and a heartfelt good-bye.
As Melissa Shupak, Director of Animal Sheltering, shared:
“Booboo’s journey was a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion in our work Her impact will resonate throughout our team for years to come especially every time we fill a pool or hear the squeak of a toy. Saying goodbye is never easy, but the love, effort, and thought that went into
every part of her care speaks volumes about who we are as an organization Her story will stay with us, and I’m so grateful to everyone who was part of it.”
To every one of you who showed up for Booboo thank you. You gave her joy, comfort, and dignity. You reminded her she was never alone. You reminded all of us why this work matters so deeply.
Booboo’s life was not easy, but it was full of meaning. She was seen. She was loved. And she was fought for every single day.
Help Spread the Word: Our Spring 50/50 is Back!
We’re excited to announce the return of our Spring 50/50 Raffle a fun and impactful way to raise vital funds for our community-focused programs like Urgent Care, Public Veterinary Services, and the Pet Parent Support Network.
How it Works:
Participants purchase tickets at wwwtorontohumanesocietylottocom for a chance to win 50% of the total jackpot, with the other 50% going directly to supporting the animals and people in our care
Who Can Enter?
Volunteers and foster parents are welcome and encouraged to purchase tickets! Unfortunately, Toronto Humane Society staff members, board members, and their immediate family are not eligible to enter or win in accordance with legal and ethical guidelines
But that doesn’t mean staff can’t help! In fact, we’re counting on you to help this campaign succeed One of the best ways to support is by sharing our 50/50 posts on social media The more people who know, the higher the jackpot and the greater the impact we can make together!
We know many of you have personal connections to our mission and the people we serve Sharing this campaign with your networks helps bring in much-needed funds to keep community support programs running strong
Stay tuned to our social media channels and internal updates for the link to the live draw and updates on the jackpot total.
Thank you for all that you do for the animals, for their people, and for our community.
Toronto Humane Society in the News: March Media Impact Recap
W p and wide across Canada While overall media impressions decreased slightly from February to 71.6 million, the quality and reach of the stories remained strong and meaningful.
Here’s how our message was shared:
87% of mentions came from television
11% appeared in news articles
2% were broadcast on radio
These stories didn’t just create awareness they delivered critical education and drove impact across the community.
Media coverage like this helps us fulfill our mission: to Improve the Lives of Animals. From raising awareness about scams to showcasing animals in need of homes, every mention in the media strengthens our impact and expands our reach
Spotlight on Adoption Scams
One of the most important messages we amplified this month was a warning about the rise in online pet adoption scams As reported by CTV News on March 11, scammers are targeting unsuspecting animal lovers by posting fake ads for
p stay vigilant: "These scams play on your emotions Always adopt through trusted, reputable sources like the Toronto Humane Society." This message was timely, resonant, and essential in helping protect would-be pet parents and the animals at the heart of these stories.
Adoptable Animals
Throughout March, adoptable animals center stage in several heartwarming adoption segments Pets like Agatha, Jelly, Darci, Titan, Lyle, and Missy were featured in local news stories, helping raise their profiles and improve their chances of finding loving homes.
Busting Pet Myths on The Good Stuff
Toronto Humane Society joined The Good Stuff with Mary Berg for a fun and informative segment featuring pet expert Kallie Milleman. Kallie debunked common pet care myths like the idea that adult cats can drink milk (they can’t!) and that rabbits don’t need vet visits (they absolutely do!). While myth-busting, she also introduced Toronto Humane Society adoptable animals and emphasized the importance of choosing reputable adoption sources, spotlighting Toronto Humane Society as a trusted organization.
Pride Month at Toronto Humane Society: Uplifting Love, Identity, and the Human-Animal Connection
As Pride Month begins, Toronto Humane Society is proud to join in recognizing the strength, joy, and powerful legacy of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities
This Pride Month, we honour and celebrate our 2SLGBTQIA+ employees, volunteers, clients, donors, and foster families Their care, dedication, and passion are woven into every aspect of our work, fueling the work we do and making a lasting difference in the lives of both animals and people.
We recognize that for many 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, the bond with their animal companions is not only profound but also uniquely meaningful. For those who face systemic barriers, family rejection, or social exclusion, pets often serve as chosen family offer support, a sense of identity, and u These relationships are more than are supported by research and lived
For example, a study published in Health & Social Care in the Community found that pets significantly contribute to queer and trans youths’ emotional well-being by helping them navigate emotional challenges and alleviating stress. In A Reason to Live: HIV and Animal Companions by Vicki Hutton, personal stories highlight how pets helped people living with HIV/AIDS cope with rejection, grief, and stigma offering steady companionship and the motivation to keep going.
We’re also thrilled to launch Pride-themed merchandise that celebrates both the spirit of Pride and the unique human-animal connection. Select items from our Pride Collection will be available online at our Shopify store, June 11 , pieces will be sold at the 7 - June 29 th th th
Emergency Parvovirus Pop-Up Clinic and Upcoming Awareness Campaign
As many of you know, we’ve recently experienced a concerning increase in parvovirus cases in our shelter In response, our Community Animal Welfare and Urgent Care team swiftly organized an emergency Parvovirus Pop-Up Clinic on April 4th to provide immediate care and help protect vulnerable pets in our community from this highly contagious and often fatal disease.
While emergency response is critical, preventing illness before it starts is even more powerful. That’s why our Fundraising and Communications teams are launching a month-long campaign to raise funds for our community animal welfare programs programs that make preventative veterinary care, including vaccinations, accessible to those who need it most.
How You Can Help
We encourage all staff, volunteers, and foster families to get involved Whether it’s a conversation at the shelter, a post on social media, or a chat with a friend your voice matters. You can:
Share campaign messages digitally or in person with friends, family, and your wider network
Educate others about the symptoms and risks of parvovirus.
Promote our community services that provide accessible, preventative pet care
And most importantly, amplify our campaign call to action: Every Minute Counts – Donate Now to Stop the Spread of Parvovirus.
Included in this post is the infographic from our April 4th Parvovirus Pop-Up Clinic, highlighting the incredible impact we made together in just one day
Every share, every conversation, and every donation helps us protect more pets and prevent the spread of this deadly disease.
Thank you for being part of this important work Let’s continue working together to stop parvovirus before it starts.
Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
Toronto Humane Society is committed to Improving the the Lives of Animals. Our team of talented, dedicated staff work to support this mission. If you are interested in joining our dedicated team please forward your resume to our Human Resource Department via email at hiring@torontohumanesociety.com.
Current Job Openings:
Veterinarian - Public Veter
Lead Veterinarian - Public
New Hires
Say hello to our new Toronto Humane Society staff members!
Jo Coote - Veterinarian
May Volunteer Updates
Anniversaries
Please join us in celebrating volunteers who are reaching a milestone anniversary this month! Thank you for all your hard work and continued dedication!
3 Years:
Shariyar A., Canine Care Volunteer
Serge B, Canine Care Volunteer
Steven D, Canine Care Volunteer
Jake D, Canine Care Volunteer
Brad F., Canine Care Volunteer
Jing L., Feline Care Volunteer and Foster Parent
Michele R, Canine Care Volunteer
Nikko S, Canine Care and Urgent Care Volunteer
Eilish V., Event, Photography and Animal Bio
Writer Volunteer
May Spotlight – Elizabeth Retter Volunteer Spotlight of the Month
We are so grateful for all our volunteers; we rely heavily on your support to meet our operational needs We want to take time once a month to extend our thanks to a volunteer who has had a positive impact at Toronto Humane Society based on staff/volunteer feedback.
This Month we would like to shine a spotlight on Elizabeth R.!
Elizabeth started volunteering a year ago, and in that time she has made a tremendous impact Not only has she been amazing at caring for our dogs, but she is also incredibly lovely and is an absolute joy to talk to. Her love and care for our animals is palpable, and it stems from her affinity for animals
“I have always been an animal lover so I knew that volunteering at Toronto Humane Society would be a very rewarding & fulfilling venture for me.”
In her time volunteering with us, she has found Toronto Humane Society a warming and inviting
place to be She is also, “so impressed with the love & attention they provide to every animal that comes there.” Elizabeth has shown that same love and attention with every animal she spends time with One of her favourite activities is reading to the animals In particular, she recalls one do who, “would grab his stuffie and get cozy with me when we read. By the end of the story, he was so relaxed that he was laying belly up and so calm. It was amazing to witness as he usually is a very anxious dog”
Elizabeth also has a rescue dog herself named Easton, who is such a character she decided to write a series of books about him to, “shine a brighter light on the importance of rescuing animals.” The book series is called “The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet”, and there are four books in the series so far The books contain “an Easton song, memorable rhymes and Easton’s silly shenanigans”. Elizabeth does a lot of presentations to children at schools, libraries and bookstores where she “spread(s) the word to children about the impact we can make on these animals lives by rescuing them”
On top of being adorable books with an important message, $1 from every book sold is donated to Toronto Humane Society, which is truly amazing You can find her books at Indigo bookstores, on Amazon, most independent bookstores in Toronto, and online at elizabethrettercom
Thank you so much Elizabeth for all that you do to help spread the word of rescuing animals and donating your time to volunteer with us, you are truly a humane hero!
Please join us in celebrating Elizabeth this month!
Volunteerand Foster Parent Town Hall
Date: Thursday, June 26 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm.
Event Details:This is forum for us to connect with ourvolunteers and foster parents to share important updates, get your input and/or answer any questions you may have!
Agenda: TBD
Location:Zoom -Town Hall Registrationto register.
Volunteer Training Assistant
We have 4 shifts that need to be filled in our Public Training Department In this role, volunteers will assist with group and private training classes. Duties include setting up and tearing down where needed, greeting customers and escorting them to the training hall, monitoring class participants, assisting with the fulfillment of any training kit retail purchases while in the classroom, and assisting staff at trade shows, demonstrations and canine social walks or puppy playgroups If you would like to assist our certified trainers with their classes and able to take on a weekly shift please let Nathan know (nschwartz@torontohumanesocietycom)
The shift days and times we need filled are Saturdays 10am - 2pm & 12pm-4pm, and Tuesdays or Thursdays 5pm - 9pm.
Volunteer/Foster Engagement Survey – We Need Your Input!
We’re conducting aVolunteer/Foster Engagement Surveyto help improve your experience and better understand your needs. This survey will be conducted every two years and your input is completely confidential Deadline to complete:May 27 at 5:00 PM Survey link
Your insights will directly inform our planning and decision-making.
Mental Health Week: Unmasking Mental Health
At Toronto Humane Society, compassion is our daily practice but it’s not always easy work. The emotional demands of caring for animals and people can be heavy, and too often, those of us in helping roles feel pressure to "keep it together" no matter what.
This year’s Mental Health Week theme, Unmasking Mental Health, invites us to take off the protective mask we often wear to hide our mental health or substance use challenges. Whether it’s fear of judgment or the desire to appear strong, many of us have felt the need to conceal our struggles But the more we hide, the heavier that mask becomes and the more isolated we can feel.
While Mental Health Week took place from May 5–11, we encourage all staff to carry its message forward throughout the month. Let’s take time to look beyond the surface not just in others, but in ourselves By embracing honesty and vulnerability,
we create space for deeper connections ones that foster support, compassion, and healing. These are the same values we offer to the animals in our care every day, and they’re values we all deserve to receive, too.
You’re Not Alone Support is Available
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, please remember you have support. All full-time employees have access to mental health and wellness benefits, including coverage for therapy, counseling, and other services If you’re unsure what’s included or how to access it, reach out to HR or check your benefits portal through People Corporation
Let’s continue creating a workplace where compassion doesn’t stop with the animals it includes us, too
Together, let’s unmask mental health.
Meet the Team: Staff Q&A with Jess Diamond
Where did you work before coming to Toronto Humane Society?
I last worked in the DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) space before joining Toronto Humane Society. That role reinforced for me the value (and the urgent need) of human connection, and I learned the importance of giving people grace and space when they are struggling. This translates well into our work at Toronto Humane Society as we partner with diverse communities and help folks who may be going through a challenging time and need our support with their pets.
Do you have any pets at home? Tell us about them!
Tell us about your role at Toronto Humane Society! What do you do, and what do you love most about it?
I’m the Human Resources Manager and have been with Toronto Humane Society since January 2025. My role is to oversee the operations of the HR department and provide our staff with guidance and support along their employment journey. I also manage accessibility and accommodations, performance engagement and management, and employee and labour relations. I love supporting the people that support our animals!
What inspired you to work in animal welfare?
I was lucky enough to grow up with many animals like dogs, cats, turtles, horses, chickens, and cows (yup, on a farm) and always felt a strong connection with them all. Animals are so much more intelligent, loving, and complex than many give them credit for, and I wanted to work for an organization that values animals the way I do.
I have three amazing pets – a pup named Arlo (AKA Peanut), a young cat named Lila (AKA Princess Pouf), and a senior cat named Milo (AKA Snowball) I adopted Milo from Toronto Humane Society 13 years ago!
What’s a memorable or heartwarming moment you’ve experienced while working here?
I love the office enrichment that I’m able to provide for our dogs. So far I’ve had Liam, Gryffin, and Candy in my office (separately of course!) Giving them some much needed cuddles and a quiet space to relax and sleep is so rewarding.
If you could switch roles with someone for a day, who would it be and why?
I would love to be an ACW for a day I know it’s extremely hard work, but they all say how rewarding it is to be hands-on with the animals. I love hearing stories about shy and nervous animals who blossom over time because of the care and attention that the ACWs provide.
What’s one fun fact about you that your coworkers might not know?
My favourite movie is Jurassic Park and I watch it about 6 times a year!
What’s your go-to comfort food or favourite local spot to eat?
Pai at Yonge and Eglinton is an amazing Thai food spot. I also love any pubs that have dogfriendly patios!
What’s a skill or hobby you have outside of work that people might not expect?
Milo
Lila
Arlo
Thank You for Building Something Special Together
On May 7th, our organization came together for another incredible Purpose & Learning Day, and we want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated staff, foster parents, and volunteers alike.
These days are designed as intentional pauses a break from the day-to-day to lean into curiosity, reflection, and connection. They’re about more than just learning; they’re about co-creating the culture we want to be a part of.
Throughout the day, the energy was electric. Sessions were led by passionate team members across departments, offering their insights and expertise on topics like volunteer engagement, effective communication, and even a cross-team AMA (Ask Me Anything) that encouraged transparency and candid conversation The vibe was thoughtful, open, and forward-looking a testament to the commitment and care each of you brings to this work.
Here's a fun challenge for you! We’ve included some trivia based on Q1 stats from the latest P&L Day. The full infographic is at the end of this newsletter, but why not try your hand at it without peeking?
Q1 TRIVIA – A GLANCE AT OUR IMPACT
1. How many animals were adopted in Q1 2025? �� 210 �� 346 �� 401 �� 616
2. How many animals were in foster care during Q1 2025?
100% �� 160 �� 200% �� 260
3. How many pounds of pet food were distributed to the community? �� 35,000 lbs �� 42,000 lbs �� 59,082.40 lbs �� 60,000 lbs
4. How many animals were returned to their families?
6. How many animals were transferred into our care during Q1?
7. How many pets and families were supported through Community Animal Welfare programming?
6,500+ �� 7,500+ �� 8,500+ �� 9,500+
8. How many animals were cared for in Urgent Care?
5. How many total training appointments were conducted in Q1?
1,216 �� 1,616 �� 2,016 �� 1,111
9. What was the average diversion rate for Pet Parent Support Network surrender requests?
10. How many TNR appointments were provided in Q1?
110 �� 120 �� 210 �� 220
Bonus Question: What illness did Bison, our first recovery case, overcome?
Parvovirus �� Cherry Eye �� FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) �� Hip Dysplasia
Adoptable Animals Feature: Tyler
Written by Jota Botia
Tyler is a sweet 4-year-old Bulldog with the sweetest puppy eyes you’ll ever see He adores affection and he is especially a huge fan of butt scratches! A smart and active dog, that is also very food-motivated, a big plus when it comes to training and bonding
Tyler arrived at Toronto Humane Society as a stray, he might feel a bit overwhelmed by unfamiliar or seemingly scary things at first, but he's a quick learner and thrives when given the chance to adjust at his own pace
After some time at the shelter, we can say that Tyler has all the potential to be a great and loyal companion in a home that will help him feel safe and has the love and patience to show him the world is not a scary place, but rather an endless source of smells and adventures
Currently, Tyler is in a wonderful foster home where he’s building up his confidence and learning how to face new situations. We are hopeful that Tyler will soon find a loving family and have the nurturing home he deserves
Q1 2025 PROGRAMS IMPACT REPORT
59,082.40 LBS OF FOOD DISTRIBUTED
Pet food was distributed to 2,610 community members through our Food Bank and Community Days
FUNDRAISING FEATURE: BISON
Bison came to Toronto Humane Society as a stray kitten and was later adopted but returned a year later, severely ill He was diagnosed with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), a disease once considered fatal With advanced treatment and dedicated care, Bison became our first FIP recovery case
346
ANIMALS ADOPTED
This incudes 586 sheltered animals that received care.
IMPACT STORY: At just 11 months old, Beau arrived with severe hip dysplasia and a gentle heart. Surgery, pain, and the stress of recovery made him a challenging foster, but with consistent care, medication, training, and lots of love, Beau began to thrive. After time in our K9 Mentor Program and support from our shelter and foster teams, Beau found the perfect adoptive home with two Bernese siblings and a family committed to his care Now calmer, happier, and loved, Beau is finally where he belongs
1,616
TRAINING APPOINTMENTS
This includes 363 clients and 111 subsidized training appointments valued at $6,366.
IMPACT STORY: In September 2024, Kahile enrolled Pluto in Stephanie Tran’s Terrible 2s class to help manage his typical adolescent behaviours excitement, distraction, and frustration around other dogs. With consistent guidance, Pluto learned key foundation skills and graduated the 6-week program. Still needing support with on-leash reactivity, the pair returned for Reactive Level 1 in January 2025. By the final weeks, Pluto could calmly relax, focus, and stay under threshold without barriers a huge milestone. Thanks to the training, Kahile gained confidence and tools to better support Pluto, strengthening their bond along the way.
25
ANIMALS RETURNED TO THEIR FAMILIES
160
SHELTER ANIMALS SUPPORTED IN FOSTER CARE
69
ANIMALS ADMITTED THROUGH THE ANIMAL TRANSPORT PROGRAM
ANIMALS AND GUARDIANS SUPPORTED THROUGH COMMUNITY ANIMAL WELFARE PROGRAMMING
This represents more than $1.1 million in below market rate care.
IMPACT STORY: ACCESSIBLE CARE THAT MADE A DIFFERENCE
When Tank needed a cystotomy and his family couldn’t afford the high cost quoted elsewhere, they turned to our Public Veterinary Services for help. We were able to provide the surgery at an accessible rate and today, Tank is happy, healthy, and thriving.
DENTAL SURGERIES
78 63
PETS CARED FOR THROUGH URGENT CARE
18 pets successfully reunited with their families, proving families don’t have to be separated during crises
TNR APPOINTMENTS
991
ANIMALS SUPPORTED THROUGH PPSN
The average potential diversion rate for surrender requests was 34%.
IMPACT STORY: PARVOVIRUS POPUP CLINIC
On March 7th, an emergency Parvovirus Vaccine Pop-Up Clinic was held at a Toronto Community Housing building in Moss Park, following multiple parvovirus cases in dogs from this address The clinic vaccinated 18 dogs, treated 1 puppy, and provided communal cremation for 2 puppies Beyond medical care, this initiative also strengthened connections with mental health and housing support teams building a path for better care for pets and their families.
FUNDRAISING FEATURE: SHELBY
Shelby was suffering from “cherry eye” Her guardian, who relies on Shelby for emotional support, couldn’t afford the surgery she urgently needed Our veterinary team stepped in Shelby underwent successful corrective surgery through our accessible Public Veterinary Services After a careful recovery, she was back to her playful, loyal self sticking close to the person who means the most to herShelby’s story is just one example of how Toronto Humane Society helps pets stay happy, healthy, and by their families’ sides
Upcoming Events-June
National Indigenous History Month
A month that celebrates Indigenous history, culture, and diversity across Canada.
Pride Month
Father’s Day
June 15th
A day to honour and show gratitude towards fathers/father figures.
Pride Month is a celebration of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. It is also a time to raise awareness of the issues that the 2SLGBTQ+ communities faces and the continued fight for social equity and justice
World Environment Day
(United Nations Observance)
A day to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment
Eid al-Adha
June 6th-June 10th
(Islamic Holy Day)
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice” or “Qurbani Eid,” commemorates the story in the Quran of God appearing to Ibrahim, or Abraham, in a dream and commanding him to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience
Animal Rights Awareness Week
June 15th – June 21st
A week to raise awareness and advocate for the rights and humane treatment of all animals
Juneteenth
June 19th
Also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States
Canadian Multiculturalism Day
June 27th
A day to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures across Canada
Click here to read more dates that we are acknowledging this month