HUMANEINSIDER
NEW! Pet Resource Library - Page 5
Chris Buchner- Page 10
Shadow’s Happiest Tale - Page 9
Pride Collection -Page 12
Goldie - Page 13
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Thank You to the Trainers Who Transform Lives Page 1, 2
Save the Date: Paws in the Park is Coming! Page 3
Toronto Humane Society in the News: April Media Impact Recap Page 4
Introducing Our New Pet Resource Library – Now Live! Page 5
Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities Page 6
June Volunteer Updates Page 7, 8
Shadow’s Happiest Tale: A One-Year Update with Her Family Page 9
Meet the Team: Staff Q&A with Chris Buchner Page 10, 11
Pride Collection Now Available – Limited Time Only! Page 12
Adoptable Animals Feature: Goldie Page 13
Toronto Humane Society Events Calendar: June, July & August Page 14
Celebrations and Observances - June Page 15
Thank You to the Trainers Who Transform Lives
At Toronto Humane Society, our mission is clear: to improve the lives of animals Every day, our dedicated team of trainers brings that mission to life whether they’re working with the public in community programs, supporting animals within our shelter walls or in foster homes
Whether they’re working with a nervous pup in the shelter, helping a bunny become more social, or coaching a guardian through challenging behaviour at home, our trainers bring patience, empathy, and expertise to every interaction. Their impact is felt across our shelter and in our community,
This Trainer Appreciation Week, we want to extend our deepest thanks to the trainers who make a difference for every species in our care from dogs and cats to bunnies, hamsters, guinea pigs and even the occasional rat
Public Trainers: Empowering Pet Guardians
Our public trainers are champions of prevention and education They work tirelessly to provide accessible, compassionate training support tha empowers pet guardians to better understand and communicate with their animals.
“Our Public Trainers make such a huge difference in the lives of the animals they serve and the families who care for them,” says Beverley McKee Senior Manager of Public Services. “I couldn’t be prouder of the client-centred and welcoming environment they cultivate They are masters a strengthening the human-animal bond and providing huge results towards training goals for all who seek their incredible expertise
Through accessible group classes, one-on-one consultations, and community support programs, our public trainers help set people and pets up for long-term success working to prevent issues before they begin. Instead of only responding to behaviour once it's escalated, they’re working upstream: supporting new pet guardians, helping animals settle into homes, and keeping more pets where they belong. They make training feel welcoming, practical, and achievable for everyone creating lasting impact through education, empathy, and connection By strengthening the bond between people and pets, our public trainers help keep animals in loving homes and prevent unnecessary surrenders They’re not just offering tools for training they’re offering support, empathy, and empowerment to the
Shelter Trainers: Advocates for Our Residents
Inside our shelter, our trainers are a lifeline for animals navigating transition and healing. With compassion and expertise, they meet each animal where they are, helping them gain confidence, reduce stress, and prepare for success in a future home.
“As someone who has also walked the path of shelter training and behaviour, I have a deep appreciation for the skill, compassion, and integrity our certified trainers bring to their work,” says Melissa Shupak, Director of Animal Sheltering “Their commitment to animal well-being, evidence-based methods, and continued learning is remarkable. Through their objective, humane approach, they not only help animals succeed but also support caregivers and educate those around them making a lasting organization and community
Our shelter trainers develop and behaviour plans that ca
helping animals build confidence and reduce stress but also on educating caregivers in the shelter, foster homes, and new adoptive families. By sharing knowledge and strategies, they ensure consistent, compassionate care that supports animals’ ongoing success and wellbeing across every stage of their journey.
We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr Jacklyn Ellis, Director of Behaviour, for her continued leadership and innovation. Her guidance helps us uphold the highest standards in animal behaviour and training, and her support in mentoring care staff and volunteers ensures that behavioural care extends well beyond the professional training team.
To our trainers, thank you for the care, expertise, bring to your work every t only helping animals thrive people understand, connect them in deeper, more
Save the Date: Paws in the Park is Coming!
Mark your calendars Paws in the Park is back and better than ever! Join us on Friday, August 16 at our 11 River Street location for a day that celebrates the human-animal bond and brings our community together
This fun-filled event will feature:
A beer garden for both humans and dogs
A canine agility course
Dog splash pads to keep pups cool
Local vendor shops
An adoption event to help animals find their forever homes
An In-Memoriam Celebration Wall honoring cherished pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge
Whether you're a pet parent, animal lover, or just love a good community celebration, this event has something for everyone.
Volunteers: If you're interested in helping out at the event, thank you! Please hold tight we’ll be sending out a call for volunteers soon via the Volunteer Services team as we finalize the details. Stay tuned for more updates and we can’t wait to see you (and your furry friends) there!
Toronto Humane Society in the News: April Media Impact Recap
This past April, Toronto Humane Society garnered an impressive 214 media mentions, reaching an estimated 162 million impressions across print, broadcast, and digital platforms From raising awareness about responsible pet guardianship to sharing seasonal safety tips, our organization continues to be a trusted voice in animal welfare.
Here are some of the month’s top media highlights:
Rabbits Are Not Just for Easter
With Easter around the corner, many families consider gifting rabbits to loved ones But as Lauralee Dorst, our Director of Community Animal Welfare, reminded viewers during an interview with CTV News, rabbits are not novelty pets. “Rabbits, as cute and beautiful as they can be, are not a good gift to get someone because there is quite a lifelong expectancy of care and expenses,” said Dorst. This message was echoed in multiple news stories throughout Easter weekend, reinforcing the importance of thoughtful, longterm planning when bringing any animal into the home.
Spring Pet Safety Tips with Dr. Karen Ward
As the weather warms up, new seasonal risks emerge for our furry friends. Dr. Karen Ward, our Chief Veterinary Officer, appeared on The Weather Network to share important spring safety tips for pet guardians. Her advice included: Keeping pets safe from toxic backyard plants Watching out for ticks during outdoor adventures
Being cautious of post-rain hazards and skunk encounters
Meet Our Adoptable Animals
Throughout April, several of our adoptable pets were featured in local news stories, helping connect them with potential forever families. Some of the spotlighted animals included: Mocha, Kit, Bronco, Malteser, Sweetie, and Oswald
Bronco
Kit
Mocha
Introducing Our New Pet Resource Library – Now
We're excited to announce the launch of our brand-new Pet Resource Library – an online hub packed with behaviour and enrichment resources for dogs, cats, and special species!
Whether you’re a long-time pet parent or just starting out, the Pet Resource Library was created to empower our community with knowledge, helping every animal thrive at home All materials have been developed by our experienced team of professionals right here at Toronto Humane Society, and they're 100% free and always available online at: wwwtorontohumanesocietycom/library
Inside the library, you’ll find helpful downloadable PDFs on a wide range of topics. Just a few examples include How to Bond Two Rabbits, Training and Enrichment for Blind and Deaf Dogs,
Home Enrichment Tips for Cats, and speciesspecific guidance for birds, small mammals, and more
We created this resource to extend our support beyond our shelter walls so that every pet has the chance to live a happy, enriched, and compassionate life, no matter where they are.
Please share this with adopters, fosters, friends, and your own networks! The more we spread the word, the more animals and pet parents we can help together.
Got a favourite resource or topic you think should be included? We’d love to hear your ideas as we continue to grow the library! Reach out to marketing@torontohumanesociety.com.
Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities
New Hires
Say hello to our new Toronto Humane Society staff members!
Mohseen Akbarali, RVT
Chandru Gopalakrishnan, Lead Certified Animal Trainer
Mikayla Dumont, Veterinary Assistant
Kate Davies, ACW
Nancy Franklin, Group Certified Animal Trainer
Internal Transfers/Hires
Lauren McIntyre, Assistant Director, Community Veterinary Services
Anniversaries: May to June
Please join us in celebrating our team members who are reaching a work anniversary milestone! We deeply appreciate your contributions and the passion you bring to your work every day!
1 Year:
Megan Doyle, Supervisor, Clinical Care
Melissa Herman, Veterinarian
Jennifer Ho, Veterinarian
Elle Leo, Animal Care Worker
Alissa Nenoff, Certified Animal Trainer
Stephanie Tran, Certified Animal Trainer
5 Years:
Laura Fiorini, Registered Veterinary Technician
Gwynn, Development Officer, Grants & Foundations
15 Years:
Jennifer Mykusz, Registered Veterinary Technician
Philip J Nichols, CEO
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:
Shelter Admissions Associate - Adoption & Intake
Manager, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Veterinarian - Veterinary Care
Veterinarian - Public Veterinary Services
Lead Veterinarian - Public Veterinary Services (18 Months)
Updates
June 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!
20 Years:
Enid C, Feline Care Volunteer
25 Years:
Fikret H., Feline Care Volunteer and Foster Parent
SummerVacations
Many volunteers are off for multiple months this summerso if you are able to pick up extra shifts it will be really helpful! If you also need to be away please remove your shifts ahead of time so we can get an idea of coverage. You only need to email Volunteer Services if you need to miss 3 weeks or more in a row just so we can make note of it For those of you away this summer enjoy your vacations!
Text Messaging Opt In
Volgistics has added a great new feature where we are now able to text message volunteers We are looking to utilize this new feature to help with a few facets of our department. In particular, we think it would help greatly when we need to make call outs for help with species care like dog walking when we are short staffed We are also looking to use it to help with appreciation and potentially with shift reminders as well. Like I said, this is a relatively new feature so there might be some changes as time goes on, but in the meantime this seems like a great alternative way to communicate with our volunteers. In order for this to be
successful, could you please take a moment to opt in for text messaging in the account settings page of your profile in Vicnet? Please add your phone number and select what times you would like to receive text messages in between. Then, select the box that says "I Agree to the Volgistics Terms and Conditions" and click the Opt In button.
Volunteerand Foster Parent Town Hall
Date: Thursday, June 26th 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Event Details: This month’s town hall will feature our new special species trainer role and the amazing volunteers who have taken on the role! This is a forum for us to connect with ourvolunteers and foster parents to share importantupdates, get your input and/or answer any questions you may have. Please register below
Agenda:
VolunteerServicesUpdates
Foster ParentUpdates
Shelter CareUpdates
AdoptionUpdates
Q&A Session
Location: Zoom -Town Hall Registration
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 the volunteers and foster parents who won awards during National Volunteer Week!
Volunteer Updates
You’re a Gem Award:
Volunteer: Jenn Naert – Jen makes a huge difference to our workload Her positive attitude and good nature does not go unnoticed and we are so fortunate to have her as part of our team
Foster Parent: Madison Epsie and Brian WatersThese two are always a joy, so understanding and easy to work with They are always so delightful to email and always so enjoyable to talk to in person.
Rockstar Rookie Award:
Volunteer: Kate Davies - Although Kate has only been with us for a short time, she has taken on numerous roles within the organization. In each case, she has shown dedication, passion, and expertise
Foster Parent: Colleen Auld - Colleen just joined the foster team this past January and has already taken on two sets of cats, both having skin issues. Thanks to Colleen's care and support, both sets of cats improved and went on to their furever homes
Going the Extra Mile Award:
Volunteer: Sam Bruder Wexler - He’s such a good vibe to have around and always helps out on spot checks when he notices them needed and loves being there for the animals.
on Alyssa (and her sisiter) to take on any kitty or small dog in need of foster. Alyssa is always one of the first foster parents in the inbox willing to offer her home
Mentorship Award:
Volunteer: Dave Rose - From cat enrichment, to being on TV, to training new volunteers, Dave has shown himself to be a shining beacon of inspiration for everyone who meets him.
Foster Parent: Donya Naseri Aliabadi- Donya has been a foster parent since 2019, and is now volunteering with cats and is being trained to become a feline behaviour specialist. Her commitment and care for animals and our mission is truly inspirational
Furry Fellowship Award:
Volunteer: MariAnne Kazmer - MariAnne has been a volunteer for 9 years and is always willing to help THS where and when ever we need it If we are back logged in laundry she does it, if she has ideas to make things better she shares it. She is a joy to work with.
Foster Parent: Alyssa Kryger - We can always count
Foster Parent: Mandy Sala - Some of the animals Mandy takes into their home need ongoing medical care and multiple rechecks. Mandy always provides the best care and is one of our most committed foster parents
Shadow’s Happiest Tale: A One-Year Update with Her Family
Many of you may remember Phyllis a gentle grey mastiff mix who came into our care as a stray in November 2023 With her oversized paws, soulful eyes, and puppy-like spirit tucked into an adultsized frame, she quickly captured hearts across the shelter. On May 5, 2024, after six months in our care (and successful surgery to remove benign growth), Phyllis finally found her perfect match Her new family renamed her Shadow, and today, they’ve shared with us her remarkable one-year update.
“Shadow hasn’t had the easiest life that a fourlegged friend could have She was abandoned in a park while she was still a puppy, had a noncancerous growth on her head that Toronto Humane Society staff had to remove surgically, and spent roughly 6 months under their care before we adopted her on May 4th, 2024. Sadly, there are still more examples of her hardships, but this is a blog post not a novel (and it is already on the long side) Her transition to her forever home wasn’t the easiest either When we first got Shadow, she was underdeveloped mentally. At Toronto Humane Society, she was known as Phyllis, the fully grown dog with the demeanour of a puppy; a combination that is difficult to cope with at the best of times. Just ask what’s left of our couch cushions.
Honestly, the idea of rehoming Shadow did cross our minds a few times in the past year; however, what always stopped us was Shadow’s willingness to learn and improve. She wasn’t bad by nature, we realized that she’s basically a scared and anxious puppy in desperate need of space to decompress Once she was willing to communicate with us, and understand when she screwed up, we saw her learn new skills and strive to be a reliable member of her new pack. When she understood she screwed up, she would apologize with hand kisses (not something we ever taught her). When she finally worked out why she screwed up, she would improve. I can’t tell you how she managed that, only that we saw the results of her hard work this past year
One year later, Shadow has completely secured her forever home. Not just from the goodwill of our family, but with her own determination to be a better four legged friend Her playful attitude brings us joy, her affection brings us warmth, and her intelligence lets her improve a little each day. Shadow truly is now and forever a member of our family, and to all her friends at Toronto Humane Society, she wants you to know that she is living every day to her fullest. Her hard-earned success is truly her happiest tale.”
Meet the Team: Staff Q&A with Chris Buchner
Where did you work before coming to Toronto Humane Society?
Before this, I worked at the Centre for Sexuality in Calgary, delivering professional training on all things related to sexual health. One standout moment was running a sexual health workshop for residents in a nursing home It was such a unique and fun experience!
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 Manager of Volunteer Services, where I lead the strategy behind recruiting, engaging, and retaining the incredible volunteers and foster parents who give their time, skills, and heart to support our mission I’m incredibly lucky to get to do this work alongside the amazing Nathan Schwartz. One of the things I love most is collaborating with all departments across Toronto Humane Society It’s so rewarding to support such a diverse and passionate team.
What inspired you to work in animal welfare?
My Gran (who was my favourite family member) knew how much I loved animals and gifted me a subscription to wildlife magazines for years when I was a kid. It meant the world to me. Animals have always been a source of healing and joy in my life I’ve also spent my entire career in social services, so this role was the perfect blend of two things I care deeply about: supporting people and animals.
Yes! I have a dog named Leto and a cat named Apollo, both adopted in Calgary. Leto is a shepherd mix who enjoys long walks on the beach and believes it’s her job to keep city buses in line I’m also fostering a Bengal cat named Biscuit who comes with his own special quirks.
Biscuit
Apollo
Leto
What’s a memorable or heartwarming moment you’ve experienced while working here?
There are so many, but one that stands out is hearing from the mother of a young volunteer with autism. She told me that volunteering here has brought so much meaning and joy to his life
Seeing how other volunteers are always supporting him during his shift without ever being asked is one of those moments that reminds me why this work matters.
If you could switch roles with someone for a day who would it be and why?
I’d love to be an adoption agent for a day. Helping someone and an animal find their perfect match sounds incredibly rewarding
What’s one fun fact about you that your coworkers might not know?
I once played the lead in my high school play The Fortress I had to wear a Superman costume it wasn’t pretty, and thankfully it was my final year!
What’s your go-to comfort food or favourite loca spot to eat?
Juicy Dumpling just two blocks from my place is my go-to comfort food. It never disappoints.
What’s a skill or hobby you have outside of work that people might not expect?
I’m a professional French Horn player and perform with orchestras across Ontario.
What’s a piece of advice you’d give to someone new joining Toronto Humane Society?
Branch out get to know the people and work beyond your immediate team. Get involved wherever you can. It’ll make your time here so much more meaningful and rewarding
Pride Collection Now Available – Limited Time Only!
Just a friendly reminder that our Pride Collection is live on our website – and it's only here for a limited time!
This year’s featured item is our Pride Bundle – just $50 with free shipping! The bundle includes:
1. A bucket hat (choose cat or dog design)
2. An “Unleash Your Pride” tote bag
3. Three exclusive Pride pins
Proceeds help support our mission while celebrating love, identity, and inclusivity.
Help spread the word or grab a bundle for yourself – while supplies last!
Adoptable Animals Feature: Goldie
Written by Kyla Cooper
Goldie is a gorgeous shepherd mix that came to Toronto Humane Society almost five years ago! There is so much to say about Goldie: she is loyal, smart, athletic, and so much fun to be around. I already have three lovely dogs of my own, or else Goldie would be at the top of my list to adopt
From the first moment I met Goldie almost four years ago, I loved how enthusiastic she is She truly has a zest for life! She greets her people with tail wags and bum wiggles every time, without fail. She also always has a toy in her mouth and she cannot wait to show it to everyone. In fact, she has quite the toy collection! Goldie’s favourite activities include swimming, hiking, playing with herding balls, and hanging out with her favourite people. She doesn’t spend too much time here at the shelter these days, thanks to her amazing foster family When she is visiting all of her friends here at the shelter, she can usually be found lounging in a kiddy pool or showing off her fetch skills in our play yards. She is a pro with the herding ball, and would play for hours if you let her Goldie is definitely an outdoorsy kind of girl, and she is always looking for a new adventure!
are sweet potato and fish Goldie is also a pro with puzzle toys, and can master them super quickly
Goldie would thrive in a home where she is the star of the show! She likes to have all of the attention of her, so no other dog friends please She thrives on routine and predictability! Goldie will need a very dedicated and patient human who is willing to help her continue to learn to be her best Goldie has waited for a very long time for her perfect match, and we know her perfect person is out there!
Even though Goldie is a true nature lover, she is also always on her best behavior indoors She is fully potty trained, and is very good when left home alone. She loves to spend her time sleeping on the couch or keeping herself busy with her toys.
Goldie is also a very smart girl! She has come a very long way in her training journey during her time with us thanks to the incredible dedication of our training team, care staff and her amazing foster parents! She is very food motivated, and is always up for a good snack Some personal favourites of
Events Calendar: June, July & August
Campaign of the month: Stop Parvovirus
Today
June 1st-June 30th
During the month of June, we are raising awareness about the dangers of Parvovirus and asking our community to support our ongoing efforts to reach more communities and protect more pets.
Paws in the Park
August 16th
Join us at our 11 River Street location for a day that celebrates the human-animal bond and brings our community together.
Pride Street Fair
June 27th, 28th and 29th
Visit Toronto Humane Society booth during Toronto Pride Weekend. Friday from 7 PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 12 PM
Purpose and Learning Day
August 12th
Connect, learn and celebrate the work we all do to support animals and their people
Community Days
June 11th and 25th
July 9th and 23rd
August 13th and 27th
We welcome community members in need of essential pet supplies at 11 River Street.
Celebrations & Observances - June
National Indigenous History Month
A month that celebrates Indigenous history, culture, and diversity across Canada.
Pride Month
Juneteenth
June 19th
Also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States
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
Father’s Day
June 15th
A day to honour and show gratitude towards fathers/father figures.
Animal Rights Awareness Week
June 15th – June 21st
A week to raise awareness and advocate for the rights and humane treatment of all animals.
Canadian Multiculturalism Day
June 27th
A day to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures across Canada
Maidyoshahem Gahambar
June 29th-July 3rd
A time that celebrates the creation of water and the sowing of the last summer crop Zoroastrians celebrate this by sharing a community meal and preserving water.
Click here to read more dates that we are acknowledging this month
