The Toronto Humane Society is stepping up efforts to ensure that no pet is left behind—regardless of their owner’s financial situation. Driven by the belief that pets are family, the organization is expanding veterinary care, training programs, and emergency services to support communities in need.
Breaking Down Barriers to Veterinary Care
In August 2023, the Society launched its second medical clinic—known as the S-Clinic—at its 11 River Street location. The facility offers affordable spay and neuter surgeries, dental care, and wellness services for the public. Many families who had struggled to find affordable or timely veterinary care are now receiving the help they need.
The impact has been significant. In 2024 alone, the S-Clinic has provided care to over 15,000 animals. This access to preventive care helps avoid costly emergencies and keeps more pets healthy and in their homes.
To further expand its reach, the Society also rolled out Community Pop-Up Wellness Clinics across underserved neighborhoods. These mobile, one-day events offer vaccinations, microchips, and wellness checks directly in the communities that need them most. Based on the overwhelming community response, plans are underway to launch satellite locations to serve even more families.
Training That Strengthens the Human-Animal Bond
Beyond medical care, the organization is focused on education and behavior training. Through a growing selection of group classes and one-on-one sessions, pet owners learn how to communicate better with their animals and build trust-based relationships.
Courses range from basic obedience to agility and scent detection. The goal is not just to train pets, but to deepen the bond between animals and their guardians. To make learning more accessible, the Humane Society has also introduced online self-paced courses. Since their launch earlier this year, 77 pet owners have already signed up, showing strong demand for practical training resources.
A Network of Support for Struggling Families
In many cases, a pet’s wellbeing reflects the stability of their home. That’s why the Pet Parent Support Network has become a vital part of the Society’s community efforts. In 2024, the network has helped more than 3,600 families by providing behavioral advice, pet food, supplies, and referrals to emergency veterinary care.
The program is known for its compassionate, judgment-free support. Whether someone calls about a change in their pet’s behavior or walks in needing flea medication and food, they’re treated with care and respect.
Community Days—held twice a month—also provide free pet supplies such as beds, harnesses, and toys. The events offer more than material support; they build a sense of connection and show families that they are not alone.
Meanwhile, the daily Pet Food Bank continues to play a critical role. With the rising cost of living, the food bank has distributed thousands of pounds of pet food, ensuring no animal goes hungry and no family has to make heartbreaking choices.
These efforts are powered by a team of dedicated volunteers, who have already contributed more than 300 hours of service this year.
Emergency Support for Families in Crisis
One of the Society’s most impactful programs is Urgent Care. This initiative provides temporary foster homes and veterinary support for pets whose owners are facing short-term crises—such as hospitalization, homelessness, or domestic violence.
In 2024, the Urgent Care Program has helped 95 families and cared for 119 pets. For many, knowing their pet is safe gives them the strength to focus on healing. In one case, a woman fleeing domestic violence was able to enter a shelter because her dog was cared for through the program.
This kind of support helps keep families together and offers hope during the most difficult times.
Looking Ahead: Compassion in Action
The Toronto Humane Society is not just responding to need—it is anticipating it. By listening to the community and expanding its services, the organization is reimagining what animal welfare looks like in today’s world.
The focus is shifting from rescue to prevention. That means investing in education, access, and long-term support for both pets and people. As the need continues to grow, so does the Society’s commitment to meeting it.
“Our mission is rooted in the belief that pets are family,” said Dorst. “And that belief drives us to build a more compassionate future—together with our partners, supporters, and the people we serve.”