At the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, every adoption represents a second chance for both the animal and the adopter. Our rehoming process is designed to ensure every animal is placed in a loving, suitable home where they can thrive. But we also recognize that the decision to rehome an animal can be incredibly difficult. Life circumstances can change, and when families or individuals make the choice to rehome an animal, we’re there to support every step of the way.
Rehoming with compassion
Rehoming a beloved pet is never an easy decision. But sometimes rehoming is the most compassionate and responsible choice a pet parent can make. Life changes and unexpected circumstances, such as illness, housing challenges, or financial hardship, can affect a family’s ability to provide the care an animal deserves.
In these cases, choosing to rehome is putting the animal’s well-being first. At the Ontario SPCA, we recognize this decision is one made from deep care for an animal’s future. Our team is here to support families through that process with understanding, respect, and compassion.
Smooth transitions
To make the experience smooth and stress-free, we ask that families book a rehoming appointment before bringing an animal to one of our animal centres. This ensures we can prepare for their arrival, gather important information about their health and personality, and provide the best possible care and comfort during the transition. To book a rehoming appointment, we ask that you fill out the dog or cat rehoming profile and submit it to your local animal centre via email. Scheduled appointments help reduce stress and allow our team to dedicate the time and attention needed to make the process as positive and calm as possible.
Once an animal enters our care, they receive a full health check, any necessary vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery (if needed), and a behavioural assessment. Our team takes the time to get to know every animal’s unique personality and needs so we can find the perfect match.
To view our animals currently available for adoption, visit ontariospca.ca/adopt
Learn why adopting from the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is the perfect choice.
FAQs
Do animals transition well into a new home after being adopted by a new family?
Animals are resilient and can adapt to new surroundings if they are given the time and support needed to help them transition into their new home. Our adoption team is here as a resource for adopters, and we also have many great tips and resources on our website, ontariospca.ca
Does the Ontario SPCA euthanize for space?
No, the Ontario SPCA does not euthanize for space. We are committed to finding loving homes for all the animals in our care, no matter how long it takes.
What does the Ontario SPCA do to support pet families?
Wherever possible, the Ontario SPCA tries to keep animals with the people who love them.
To keep pets in loving homes, we communty support services, such as high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinics, mobile wellness events, and community initiatives like food bank partnerships and “Pawsitive Packs” for unhoused pet parents. These community services aim to reduce shelter intake and strengthen the bond between pets and their people.
Learn more about how we keep pets and people together.
Visit ontariospca.ca/communitysupport to learn more about our services.
What should I do if I’m considering rehoming my pet because of behavioural issues?
Our website has a number of resources, tools and tips related to animal care and positive behaviour modification. If you are thinking of rehoming your animal due to behavioural challenges, we recommend pet parents contact their veterinarian for advice on animal care and well-being. A positive reinforcement-based trainer may also be able to assist you and your pet.
How do I make a rehoming appointment?
If you are struggling to care for your animal and need support with rehoming your pet, please complete the rehoming profile below and submit to the animal centre nearest you via email. Once the centre receives your completed profile, a representative will contact you to discuss next steps and available options.
As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need. Please consider donating today.
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