LETTER

Resources on pet behaviour & stresses  

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has launched a free online tool for shelter professionals and pet owners to improve the behavioural health of animals by focusing on their mental and emotional needs:  the new Environmental Needs & Behavioural Health section on the shelterhealthpro.com website. 

Content includes: enrichment activities for cats, dogs and small animals; animal training and behaviour modification; recognizing animal stress and how to reduce it; and guidelines for pet housing.

Caregivers have access to the tools to help keep shelter animals happier and healthier to increase their chance of adoption. The site also helps families with pets prevent and modify behavioural issues, as unwanted behaviours can lead to challenges and frustration.

Our goal is to enhance the comfort of the animals in our care and ensure they have a humane and healthy environment – whether that’s in an animal shelter, or in a home.  We encourage everyone involved in animal care at all levels to consider the emotional and mental well-being of our animal friends. For more information on the Shelter Health Pro website, visit shelterhealthpro.com

Dr. Magdalena Smrdelj, 

Chief Veterinary Officer, 

Ontario SPCA 

Stouffville, Ont.