HUMANEINSIDER
Veterinary Appreciation Week - Page 3
Delia X- Page 7
Emjay- Page 5
Stu - Page 13
Greg Ratelle - Page 11
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Giving Tuesday – Help Animals Start Their Next Chapter Page 1
Visit Us at the Toronto National Women’s Show Page 2
Congratulations to Jackie on Winning the Animal Welfare Innovation Award! Page 3
Honouring Our Veterinary Professionals This October Page 4
Featured Adoptable Animal: Emjay Page 5
Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities Page 6
October Volunteer Updates Page 7, 8
Toronto Humane Society in the News: August Media Impact Recap Page 9
Lest We Forget: Remembering the Courage of Humans and Animals in Service Page 10
Meet the Team: Staff Q&A with Greg Ratelle, Senior Officer, Strategic and Corporate Partnerships Page 11, 12
Happy Tails: Stu Page 13
Holiday Pet Pics Are Back Page 14
Events Calendar: November, December Page 15
Giving Tuesday – Help Animals Start Their Next Chapter Events
2X YOUR IMPACT
Friday and Cyber Monday It’s a day when people around the world come together to give back to the causes, communities, and organizations that make a difference. For charities like ours, it’s one of the most important fundraising days of the year, helping to raise vital funds that power our programs and services for animals and the people who love them.
This year, our theme is “Helping Animals Start Their Next Chapter”
Whether it’s a pet entering our adoption program and finding a home, or a family receiving support through our community programs to keep their beloved pet healthy and safe your support helps every animal begin a new, brighter chapter in their life.
Plus, all donations will be MATCHED by Purina, up to $10,000! That means every dollar donated will go twice as far to help animals in need.
How You Can Help Spread the Message:
You play a huge role in helping us reach more people this Giving Tuesday! Here’s how you can get involved:
Share our posts on your personal social media accounts
Tell your friends and family why Toronto Humane Society matters to you and encourage them to donate.
Every share, every conversation, and every dollar helps animals start their next chapter healthy, happy, and home.
Together, we can help twice as many animals this Giving Tuesday!
Visit Us at the Toronto National Women’s Show
We’re thrilled to share that Toronto Humane Society will be at the Toronto National Women’s Show from November 21–23 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre!
This is always such a fun event filled with incredible vendors, inspiring brands, and passionate people and we’re excited to be part of it once again. At our booth, you’ll find exclusive retail items that make perfect gifts for yourself or the animal lovers in your life, including:
Our Coffee Lover Mug
The cozy Fueled with Coffee and Compassion sweater
The I Love My Dog This Much and I Love My Cat
This Much hoodies
Plus a few of our fan favourites our 2026 Calendar and Holiday Cards!
Come by to say hi, shop around, and explore everything the show has to offer
And if you’re planning to attend, don’t forget you can get discounted tickets using our promo code TORSHOP25 at: nationalwomenshowcom/toronto-visitor
We can’t wait to see you there!
Celebrate the season of compassion with our exclusive Toronto Humane Society Holiday Cards each one featuring an animal whose life was changed thanks to animal lovers, like you Pick one or mix and match 5 to get 3 for free Get yours here!
Congratulations to Jackie on Winning the Animal Welfare Innovation Award!
We’re so proud to share that Dr Jacklyn (Jackie) Ellis, PhD, CAAB, CSB-C, has been awarded the Animal Welfare Innovation Award for her incredible work on Beyond “Doing Better”: Improving the Objectivity of Cat Behavior Assessment!
Jackie’s research and training program has transformed how we understand and monitor feline behaviour here at Toronto Humane Society. By developing four simple rating scales measuring fear, anxiety, stress, response to petting, play, and food intake she’s helped create a clearer, more consistent way to track each cat’s well-being and progress
This system has already improved case management, supported better decision-making,
and helped more cats find their way home and now, thanks to her free online course, shelters and behaviour professionals everywhere can benefit too!
Jackie’s passion for combining science and compassion continues to make a real difference for animals, and we couldn’t be happier to see her hard work recognized. Congratulations, Jackie and thank you for helping us all keep doing better for the cats in our care
Read her research paper here. Take the free training course here.
Honouring Our Veterinary Professionals This October
This October, we’re celebrating the incredible team of veterinary professionals who dedicate their expertise, compassion, and care to improving the well-being of animals every single day.
From our Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVMs) to our Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) and Veterinary Assistants (VAs), each plays a vital role in bringing comfort, care, and hope to animals in need
At Toronto Humane Society, our veterinary teams do far more than provide medical treatment they are the beating heart of our mission Within our Sheltering Programs, they care for animals with critical and complex medical or behavioural needs pets whose guardians may not have had access to the resources or care they required With compassion and clinical expertise, our teams provide the second chances those animals deserve
Through our Community Animal Welfare Programs including our on-site clinics, inner-city pop-up clinics, and rural veterinary services they extend that same compassion into the community
ensuring that pet guardians, regardless of financial circumstances, have access to quality veterinary care
Their work not only saves lives, but also keeps families together and strengthens the bond between people and the animals they love
We also want to take this opportunity to recognize those across the organization who hold veterinary designations whether as veterinarians, RVTs, or other certified professionals whose work may not be clinical but continues to advance our mission. Your knowledge, perspective, and commitment strengthen our organization and the broader animal welfare field in countless ways
If you see a member of our veterinary teams, take a moment to thank them for everything they do they are the heart of who we are and the reason so many animals and families thrive
Featured Adoptable Animal: Emjay
If you’re looking for a loyal companion who’ll make you laugh, challenge you a little, and love you endlessly meet Emjay.
This handsome boy has been with us for a while, so you may already know exactly who we are talking about
But during his time with us, he’s worked closely with our veterinary, animal care, and behaviour teams to help him feel his best inside and out Now, Emjay is ready to start his next chapter with someone who understands that the best things in life often take patience, compassion, and commitment.
A True Character
Emjay is full of personality. He’s smart, goofy, and expressive the kind of dog who will make sure you always know how he feels When he’s comfortable, you’ll see his playful side shine through: tossing toys in the air, leaning in for head scratches, and trotting proudly by your side on walks.
He can be a bit sensitive around new people and when it comes to other dogs, he prefers to keep his distance so he’s looking for a home that will give him time and space to adjust at his own pace Once he trusts you, he’s all in loyal, affectionate, and endlessly endearing
Medical and Behavioural Care
Emjay has a few ongoing medical and behavioural needs that his future family will need to support Medically, Emjay’s skin can be a bit delicate and may flare up occasionally. With the help of our veterinary team, he’s doing well on a treatment plan to manage his allergies and regular check-ins to keep him comfortable He’s also on a few
behavioural medications that help him stay relaxed and feel more at ease in his daily routine
While his medication schedule might look detailed, Emjay takes them well (especially when offered in something tasty!).
The Ideal Home for Emjay
Emjay would do best in:
A calm, adult-only home.
A house or quiet apartment without other pets
A family experienced with dogs who have big feelings or someone eager to learn with the support of our team.
A routine that includes consistency, predictability, and patience
With the right match, Emjay has the potential to flourish. He’s shown incredible progress with consistent care and understanding, and we know that in the right environment, he’ll continue to blossom into the happy, confident dog
Everyone at Toronto Humane Society knows Emjay by name. While we love seeing his goofy grin every time we walk by Room B, it’s time for Emjay to start his next chapter in a loving home
Staff Announcements & Career Opportunities
New Hires
Say hello to our new Toronto Humane Society staff members!
New Hires:
Hollie Poulter, Veterinarian
Naygia Bradshaw, Veterinary Assistant
Joshua Duffy, Animal Care Worker
Sriram Goteti, Animal Care Worker
Jennifer Babbs, Animal Care Worker
Brooke Trafton, Animal Care Worker
Anoop Pillai Project Manager, Strategic Initiatives & Mission Advancement
Internal Transfers/Hires:
Emma Calhoun Supervisor, Sheltering Programs
Madelyn Bockus-Murphy, Veterinary Assistant Mohseen Akbarali, Registered Veterinary Technician (passed his registration exam!)
Anniversaries - 1 year
Natalie Allard, Client Service Agent
Ethan Awizen, Animal Care Worker
Madelyn Bockus-Murphy, Veterinary Assistant
Alana Brown, Animal Care Worker
Rhysand Bruzzo, Animal Care Worker
Kristi Clarida Director, Academic Strategy
Shunera Costa, Animal Care Worker
Seray Moon Desdemir, Supervisor, Sheltering Programs
Mehek Rahman, Donor Relations & Processing Agent
Anniversaries - 5 year
Lucie Feldbruegge-Caruana, Lead Client Service Agent
Jessica Harwood Manager, Communications & Publications
Bidisha Mukherjee, Administrative Assistant, Animal Sheltering and Strategic Initiatives
Matthew Pereira, Registered Veterinary Technician
Nicole Shell, Animal Care Worker
Anniversaries - 10 year
Christina Giordmaina, Registered Veterinary Technician
Melissa Shupak Director, Animal Sheltering
Erika Wharton , Veterinary Assistant
Anniversaries - 15 year
Caitlyn Williams Registered Veterinary Technician
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:
Lead Registered Veterinary TechnicianPublic Veterinary Services - Full Time
Registered Veterinary Technician- PVS -Full Time
Veterinary Assistant - Public Veterinary
Services - Full Time
Veterinary Assistant - Public Veterinary
Services - Part Time
Client Service Agent - Public Veterinary
Services - Part Time
Client Service Agent - Public Veterinary
Services - Full Time
October Volunteer Updates
Supplies In Room N
Please keep in mind that supplies in Room N are for training purposes Please do not grab any supplies from room N, all the supplies you will need for feline enrichment are in the kitchen and treat areas.
Enrichment Reminder
Different species in our care have different enrichment needs. Just to remind you, here is a breakdown of the minimum amount of enrichment sessions we aim to have each species seen each day:
Canine – 3 walks a day
Feline – 2 visits per day
Special Species – 1 visit per day
Feline Behaviour Specialist Training
There is a new round of feline behaviour specialist trainings available. Sessions will run on the evenings of October 20th, 27th and November 3rd from 6-8PM Space is limited and open to any level one or two trained feline volunteers The trainings will be run by our very own Jackie Ellis. If you are interested, please email Chris Buchner (cbuchner@torontohumanesocietycom)
Anniversaries
3 Years:
Candice A, Canine Care
Isabel C, Canine Care and Foster Parent
Nicola C, Special Species and Canine Care
Joey F., Special Species Care and Foster Parent
Sarah K., Special Species Care
Ali K, Canine and Feline Care
Catherine M, Feline Care and Foster Parent
Gage S., Canine and Feline Care
Michelle S., Pet Support Service Agent
Jennifer V., Feline Care
10
Years: Glenn C, Canine Care and Foster Parent
Volunteer Spotlight of the Month
We are so grateful for all our volunteers and foster parents; 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/foster parent 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 Delia X.!
Volunteer Updates
Delia may have only been a volunteer for just over a year, but in that time she has donated over 130 hours of volunteer service and has taken on several different roles, from Team Day Facilitator to Pet Support Service Agent, Pet Parent Support Network and even foster parent What drove Delia to apply to volunteer was her “passion for animal welfare and love for dogs.” That passion shines brightly through every role that she undertakes and every shift she attends
On top of being a stellar volunteer, Delia has also recently adopted one of our longer stay dogs, Forever Forever was surrendered into our care a few years ago and was a very nervous girl upon arrival. Over time, we learned that she has some stranger danger, resource guarding and territorial aggression.
However, even with all the behaviour concerns, Delia still fell in love with Forever, adopted her and she has been nothing but wonderful ever since If you ever see Delia around, she will be happy to show you some adorable pictures of a very content Forever
In her time as a volunteer, Delia has found the experience “incredibly rewarding, and I truly enjoy every minute of it!” Well Delia, we have truly enjoyed every minute of having you as a volunteer and cannot be more grateful for the time and love you have given to help Toronto Humane Society
Toronto Humane Society in the News: August Media Impact Recap
In August, our media relations efforts resulted in 488 media mentions, and an impressive 270 million+ impressions across TV, radio, and print, which is worth over $62 million USD worth of ad value (AVE)
Top Stories include: Animal Surrender Rates & Access to Care: Several spokespersons including Lauralee Dorst, and Melissa Shupak spoke to several outlets including CBC, Radio Canada, CP24, AM 640 Toronto (CFMJAM), and CityNews. The interviews focused on surrender rates, the reasoning behind them, and how the organization is working to find solutions to the access to care issue.
Man’s True Best Friend Campaign: Toronto Humane Society in participation with Humane Canada, and Sidlee launched a national billboard campaign titled “Man’s True Best Friend”. The campaign launched the same day as Sabrina Carpenter’s new album “Man’s Best Friend” and
used the pop culture moment to raise awareness about pet adoption. Several outlets covered the story including Media in Canada, Grenier, Campaign Canada, and more
CBC Kids: The network aired several previous episodes that featured both Lucas Solowey and Dillon Dodson - who introduced animals from Toronto Humane Society and fun facts about them These episodes aired across Canada on multiple days throughout the month. Watch episodes here, here, and here.
Adoptable Animals in the Spotlight: Media outlets continued to share stories of animals looking for loving homes. In August, pet profiles included: Charlotte, Suzie Toot, Lyle, Gideon, Cookie, Dino, Nola, Emjay, Fable, Kenny, Coco, Guppy, Luke, Billy, and Luna
Lest We Forget: Remembering the Courage of Humans and Animals in Service
On Remembrance Day, Toronto Humane Society joins Canadians across the country in paying tribute to all those who have served, reflecting on their courage, resilience, and sacrifice
As the red poppy honours human sacrifice, we too remember the animals who served beside them From the horses who carried soldiers and supplies, to the dogs who offered comfort and protection, and the pigeons who delivered vital messages
through danger, their loyalty and bravery remind us of the deep bond between humans and animals, even in the face of hardship
As we wear the poppy and observe a moment of silence, let us remember both the human and animal lives that gave so much in service Their legacy endures
Lest we forget.
Meet the Team: Staff Q&A with Greg Ratelle, Senior Officer, Strategic and Corporate Partnerships
Tell us about your role at Toronto Humane Society! What do you do, and what do you love most about it?
As our Senior Officer, Corporate and Strategic Partnerships, I work with our development team to establish and cultivate impactful relationships with businesses and corporate leaders that are looking to support our mission I enjoy meeting so many different community members and having the chance to learn about their work and companies, while exploring creative ways in how we can partner together to improve the lives of animals
What inspired you to work in animal welfare?
Animals have always been a huge part of my life and I grew up a house that was often jokingly referred to as a ‘zoo’ My first job after high school was at a small cat rescue in my hometown and when an opportunity presented itself to join Toronto Humane Society after my undergraduate studies, I jumped at the chance and haven't looked back
Where did you work before coming to Toronto Humane Society?
Having been with Toronto Humane Society for over 11 years, my past jobs were during summer breaks or school. I worked in sales through the US, directed McMaster University’s intramural programs, officiated volleyball across the province, and even spent a couple of summers in metalworking factories.
What’s a memorable or heartwarming moment you’ve experienced while working here?
Choosing one moment from a decade of incredible experiences at Toronto Humane Society is very difficult. One of my earliest unique opportunities I
I had years ago was filming a commercial with DeMarre Carroll and the Toronto Raptors Every pet featured was a part of my or my colleague’s families here at THS and with all these pets now passed, the commercial and memories are a wonderful, intertwined legacy of my pet family and THS family
If you could switch roles with someone for a day, who would it be and why?
I have been priviledged to be part of and lead so many different programs at Toronto Humane Society that I’m not too sure I could choose at this point. If I were to swap shoes with someone right now, it would have to be our Director, People and Culture, so that I could take advantage of Carol’s playoff Blue Jays tickets this year
Do you have any pets at home? Tell us about them!
I have 2 wonderful senior dogs, a black lab Diesel and a maltese Sammie In the mix is my cuddly tooth are co treats
What’s one fun fact about you that your coworkers might not know?
While it has been some years since my last jump, I maintain a Canadian Sport Parachuting Association membership and have completed over 25 solo skydives
What’s your go-to comfort food or favourite local spot to eat?
My go-to comfort food would have to be my mom’s cabbage rolls. Locally, I love Liberty Shawarma who has been around since I joined THS – their green hot sauce is amazing and I love to support the owners who regularly provide free food to folks in need
What’s a skill or hobby you have outside of work that people might not expect?
Besides spending time with my pets, these days I enjoy cooking, woodworking, playing guitar, golfing, and my daily NYT puzzles.
What’s a piece of advice you’d give to someone new joining Toronto Humane Society?
The culture at Toronto Humane Society is special and it is a place that unique opportunities can be found at every turn if you stay open to change and growth Every day can bring new and unexpected experiences or challenges that I encourage you to lean into with enthusiasm. We also have some of the best people in our circle, be that staff, volunteers, or supporters, and you would be missing out if you don’t take the time to get to know others and learn from them and their experiences.
Happy Tails: Stu
We wanted to extend our heartfelt thanks for bringing Stu, formerly known as “Soup” into our lives. While we’ve welcomed a number of foster animals into our home over the years, it wasn’t until Stu arrived awaiting surgery that we realized he had already found his forever home with us.
Our resident dog, Murphy also a proud Toronto Humane Society alumni, came to us, under socialized and with a great deal of unsureness of people, but he had a deep love for other dogs. Though he enjoyed the company of each foster who passed through our home, not every dog felt quite the same way about him until Stu.
From the moment Stu waddled and then bounced through the door, it was as if the two had known each other forever Despite being an unlikely pair a Pyrenees mix and a Corgi they became instant companions, playing, napping, and gently keeping each other in check with the perfect mix of
affection and sass From sunrise to bedtime, their connection brought a joy and warmth to our home that was truly special.
Murphy’s quality of life blossomed with his new best friend by his side Stu’s confidence and easygoing nature seemed to lift some of Murphy’s old fears and bring out the very best in him – the opportunity to genuinely play and enjoy the world with a worthy, confident and sound pal Whether or not we had planned on adding another permanent member to our family, Murphy and Stu made that decision for us They always say ” the right dog finds you” and in our case, it couldn’t be more true.
We are deeply grateful to Toronto Humane Society for bringing these two remarkable souls together and, in doing so, bringing so much happiness and light into our lives. Thank you for the work you do every day to create these lifechanging connections
Holiday Pet Pics Are Back
Get ready to capture the magic of the season Holiday Pet Pics are back at Toronto Humane Society!
Dates: November 8, 9, 15 & 16
Location: 11 River Street
Price: $50 per 15-minute session
Celebrate the season with your entire family pets included! Our annual Holiday Pet Pics return with festive backdrops, smiling faces, and plenty of tail wags This beloved event sells out every year, so be sure to book online to secure your spot!
What’s Included With Your Session:
A 15-minute photo session with Bark & Smiles
Photography
3 professionally retouched digital images
A goody bag with treats and toys from Chewy
A 2026 New Beginnings calendar
Limited slots are available, so don’t miss your chance to make some joyful memories all while supporting lifesaving work for animals in need.
Book online at: torontohumanesocietycom/holidaypetpics
We can’t wait to see you and your adorable pets spreading holiday cheer!
Events Calendar: November & December
Campaign of the month: Giving Tuesday
November 10 - December 3 th rd
All donations will be MATCHED by Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets, up to $10,000!
Holiday Pet Pics
November 8 and 9 - 15 and 16 th th th th
Toronto National Women’s Show
November 21 22 and 23 st, nd rd
Get discounted tickets using our promo code
TORSHOP25
Celebrate the season with your entire family pets included! This event is a holiday favourite and sessions always sell out quickly, so book early to secure your spot.
Community Days
November 12th and 26th
December 10th
We welcome community members in need of essential pet supplies at 11 River Street.