News

Winter is here, and it’s bringing more than just snow! As temperatures drop across the Niagara Region and much of Canada, pet owners need to be aware of the new risks that cold weather presents. While we can layer up in puffer jackets and enjoy hot drinks, our pets depend on us to shield them from the winter chill. Whether you have a dog that loves playing in the snow or a cat that prefers the indoors, all pets face challenges during the colder months. By following these cold weather pet safety tips, you can help keep your furry friends comfortable, safe and happy all season long.

The holiday season is often considered the most wonderful time of the year- a time for giving, spreading joy and sharing love. But beyond gift-giving and holiday feasts, it’s also an opportunity to give back to the community in ways that make a lasting impact. There are many ways to help out, from volunteering at a soup kitchen to donating food at a local food bank. But it’s important to remember that animals also need our support. One meaningful way to give back this holiday season is by fostering an animal through the Humane Society of Greater Niagara (HSGN). At HSGN, we depend on foster homes to provide safe and loving environments for animals while they await their forever homes. This can include caring for dogs, cats, puppies or even small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. As a foster caregiver, you’ll provide basic care, such as feeding, grooming and ensuring the pet’s overall health. You’ll also help socialize and train the animals, preparing them for adoption. HSGN provides the supplies needed, so you can focus on offering a stable and loving home. Fostering not only brings joy to the animals but also provides a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment for you. It helps animals transition to their new homes, frees up space at the shelter and makes a direct contribution the community. In this blog, we’ll discuss why fostering an animal during the holidays is a great choice, the benefits it offers to both pets and people and other ways you can give back this season with HSGN.

Adopting a new cat or dog when you already have one at home can be a bit tricky. It’s not just about finding a pet that suits your personality; you also need to think about how they’ll get along with your current pet. A proper introduction is key to helping your new cat or dog start off on the right paw with your existing pet. It may take some time, but with the right approach, they can learn to get along and even become friends. In today’s blog, we’ll offer practical tips to ensure a smooth introduction between your pets and answer common questions like, “Will my cat and dog ever get along?” and “Do cats and dogs understand each other?” Let’s dive in!

Senior animals are often passed over in shelters, overlooked in favour of younger pets. However, adopting senior pets comes with numerous advantages. They are usually already housebroken, need less supervision, exhibit calmer temperaments and love deeply. If you’re thinking about bringing a senior pet into your home, you likely have questions. Lucky for you, we’ve got answers! This month’s blog serves as a complete guide to caring for senior pets, covering common health issues, nutritional needs and more to help you provide excellent support for an older pet. Let’s get started!

The back-to-school season can bring significant changes for your pet, especially as they find themselves spending more time alone at home. With kids returning to school in the coming weeks, pets may experience increased stress from the sudden shift from summer play to quiet, empty houses. This transition can be challenging for them. This blog offers back to school pet tips and insights to help your companions adjust to the new routine. Whether you have a dog, cat, or small critter, we’re here to help you foster a smooth transition and maintain a happy, healthy relationship with your pet during the back-to-school season.

Summer brings a unique set of challenges for your furry friends. Understanding what these risks are is key to keeping your pets safe! As the temperatures rise and summer activities begin, it’s essential to consider the wellbeing of your pets. Whether it’s scorching heat or the excitement of fireworks, here are some crucial tips for summer pet safety to ensure your pets enjoy the season as much as you do.

June marks National Adopt a Cat Month, and it’s no coincidence. It marks the start of kitten season, which may sound like a dream come true for some, but for animal shelters, it implies the beginning of many headaches. Flooded with an influx of kittens, this surge leaves shelters hard-pressed, with limited space and resources. In today’s blog, we’ll answer all your questions related to this annual event, from “Why is there a kitten season in the first place?” to “How is it connected to National Adopt a Cat Month?” and most importantly, “How can I help?” Plus, we’ll even offer some helpful cat care tips just in case all this leaves you inspired to adopt a feline friend.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Did you know that 1 in 5 people in Canada will experience a mental health issue each year? Pets play a crucial role in our mental well-being by providing unconditional love, comfort, and support. In today’s blog, we’ll explore the incredible benefits of pets, with a specific focus on how they impact our mental and physical health, leaving behind pawprints of joy, resilience, and healing.

Spring is in full swing– it’s time to groom your pets! With most cats and dogs saying goodbye to their winter coats, allergens filling the air, and pests coming out in droves, now is the perfect time to establish a pet grooming routine. Trust us, with some daily brushing, spring cleaning and regular baths, both you and your furry friend will be feeling like your best selves. In today’s blog, we’ll explore various aspects of spring pet care, from grooming techniques to minimize shedding to preventive measures against seasonal pests. 

Wondering whether to take your furry friend to the local dog park for some scheduled playtime? Before you grab the leash, brush up on your dog park etiquette. Today’s blog is filled with pro tips, ensuring you and your doggo handle the ins and outs of dog parks in Niagara with ease.