COVID-19 Resources
We along with the public have been learning new information regarding COVID-19 on a daily basis and we require time to operationalize the information in an effective and equitable way. Over the past few weeks, we have been adjusting our policies and procedures to best equip our staff and service the needs of our community.
HSLM pet adoptions, including dogs, cats and small animals, can be scheduled by appointment only. Available pets will be featured on www.hslm.ca and social media platforms. Once an animal becomes adopted, they will be removed from the website.
Please review the revised HSLM COVID-19 Adoption Protocol HERE.
For pet surrenders, please call: 519-451-0630 x 232.
E-Newsletters
December 14, 2020
From the HSLM Executive Director’s Desk: COVID-19 Update December 14, 2020
March 24, 2020
From the HSLM Executive Director’s Desk: COVID-19 Update – HSLM Closed to the Public
March 17, 2020
From the HSLM Executive Director’s Desk: HSLM to Limit Shelter Operations
March 13, 2020
From the HSLM Executive Director’s Desk: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update
News Releases
March 24, 2020
News Release: HSLM Closed to the Public Effective Tuesday, March 24th
March 17, 2020
News Release: HSLM Limits Shelter Operations Amidst
COVID-19
COVID-19 Resources for Pet Owners
Importance of Keeping Pets Mentally and Physically Stimulated During COVID-19 Pandemic
We all know the importance in ensuring we are doing our part to “flatten the curve” by social and physical distancing amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, however it is key to remember that we humans are not the only ones who are affected by the changes in our daily routines.
For example, you may find that your high-energy dog is starting to misbehave without his daily visit to the local off-leash dog park. The decrease of exercise and mental stimulation can lead to boredom and an all around unhappy pet. Fortunately, there are many other ways to ensure that their needs for mental and physical stimulation are being met:
1. Fill a Kong with pet-friendly peanut butter.
2. Teach your pet a new trick! If they already know how to “sit” and “shake a paw”, try out more complex tricks, such as “roll over” or “speak”.
3. Make meal time fun by putting their kibble in an interactive treat dispensing ball.
4. Play hide and seek in the house or fenced backyard using their favourite treats or toy. Nose work is a great mental drainer!
5. Increase the duration and frequency of their daily walks outside, while keeping safe distance from others. Be sure to allow your dog the opportunity to sniff and explore during these walks.
6. Puzzle toys provide your pet to use their wits to earn treats. These help satisfy a cat’s natural instinct to search for food.
7. Teach your cat a fun trick or two! Cats are more than capable of learning tricks just like dogs. This fun activity will help mentally stimulate your cat, while strengthening your bond.
8. Walking your cat on a harness and leash is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, together.
9. Toilet paper or kitchen towel cardboard rolls make a great rabbit toy.
10. Rotate your bird’s toys to keep them mentally stimulated. Much like young children, birds get bored playing with the same old toys after a while.
While there is currently no evidence you can contract COVID-19 from your pet, it’s important to plan ahead to protect your pets in case your own health is compromised. Unless you are hospitalized and live alone, keep your pets with you.
Tips on including your pets in an emergency preparedness plan:
1. Prepare an emergency kit:
Keep at least a two-week supply of pet food, water and any medications they require along with instructions.
2. Identify trusted family or friends who can care for your pets:
Have 2-3 individuals lined up in case they become sick or hospitalized. Ensure you have spoken with these individuals before you consider them an option.
3. Create a written emergency plan for each pet:
Include your name, contact information, your pet’s medical conditions, treatment instructions, vaccination status and your veterinarian.
HSLM wants to help keep children entertained and educated during this time of social distancing.
Below you will find fun, interactive activities which can be be downloaded and printed for your children to enjoy. Be sure to tag @HumaneSocietylm on social media to show us their wonderful work.
Primary Activities (Grades 1-3)
Junior Activities (Grades 4-6)
Companion Animal Tips
Below are pdf brochures which cover a variety of pet care information which we hope you will find to be helpful and educational:
