HUMANEINSIDER
Garine Yaaccoubian - Page 4
Anna N - Page 10
Staff New Hires, Promotions & Anniversaries - Page 6
Lyle. - Page 15
Donut Day- Page 17
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Toronto Humane Society Wins Interdisciplinary Team of the Year at the Purple Ribbon Awards
Page 1, 2
Long Stay Adoption Promotion: May Impact Recap
Page 3
Meet the Team: Staff Q&A with Garine, Director, Animal Sheltering
Page 4, 5
Staff New Hires, Promotions & Anniversaries
Page 6
Benefits Reminder – Life Change Events
Page 7
Volunteer Updates
Page 8, 9, 10, 11
Adoptable Pet of the Month: Priscilla
Page 12, 13, 14
Happy Tails: Lyle’s 6 Month Update
Page 15, 16
Donut Day Recap: A Small Thank You for a Big Community
Page 17
Doors Open Toronto: Thank You for Helping Us Welcome the Community
Page 18
Introducing Our Dog Zodiac Tote Bag Collection
Page 19
Toronto Humane Society Wins Interdisciplinary Team of the Year at the Purple Ribbon Awards
We’re proud to share that Toronto Humane Society has been named Interdisciplinary Team of the Year in the Organizations, Partnerships & Community Impact category at the Purple Ribbon Awards, hosted by DomesticSheltersorg
This recognition highlights the strength of our collaborative approach to keeping people and pets safe and together work that depends on coordination across veterinary care, behaviour, social work, foster programs, shelter operations, and community support services.
About the Purple Ribbon Awards
The Purple Ribbon Awards are an annual program led by DomesticShelters.org that recognizes individuals, programs, and organizations working to support survivors of domestic violence and related challenges, and to strengthen systems of care within their communities.
Across more than 30 award categories, nominees are evaluated by a national panel of professionals in the field The program is designed to recognize a wide range of contributions from frontline staff and volunteers to large-scale organizational partnerships reflecting the many ways meaningful impact happens across the sector.
The Interdisciplinary Team of the Year category specifically recognizes teams that demonstrate strong cross-functional collaboration in delivering wraparound support and services
Why This Recognition Matters
At Toronto Humane Society, interdisciplinary collaboration is central to how we work every day.
This includes:
Coordinated medical and behavioural assessment for animals with complex needs
Foster care support that extends the capacity of our in-shelter teams
Behaviour and training plans that support successful placements and transitions
Cross-department communication to ensure continuity of care and decision-making
Community-focused programming that helps keep pets and people together whenever possible
This award reflects the commitment of staff and volunteers across all departments who contribute to that shared mission; often behind the scenes, and always with compassion and care
A Shared Achievement
While the award is presented to the organization, it represents the work of many teams working as one From animal care and veterinary services to behaviour, social work and support services, every role contributes to the outcomes we are able to achieve together.
We are grateful to DomesticSheltersorg for this recognition, and especially proud of the people behind the work that made it possible.
Thank you to everyone at Toronto Humane Society who continues to show what true interdisciplinary care looks like in action.
Long Stay Adoption Promotion: May Impact Recap
for more than 30 days
Thanks to the collective efforts of staff, volunteers, and foster caregivers across the organization, the campaign had a meaningful impact.
Overall Impact
During the promotion period, we celebrated 146 adoptions, including 27 long-stay animals who moved into loving homes
9 rabbits
7 cats
6 dogs
2 guinea pigs
2 birds
1 gerbil
Spotlight: Piggy
One of the pets who found a home through the Long Stay Adoption Promotion was Piggy, a 4-year-old American/Abyssinian guinea pig Piggy arrived at Toronto Humane Society at the end of March and, despite being perfectly healthy, spent several weeks waiting for the right adopter to come along.
Like many small animals, guinea pigs can sometimes take longer to find homes, making promotions like this an important opportunity to introduce them to more potential adopters
On May 10, Piggy's wait came to an end when he was adopted into a loving home.
Thank You
This campaign’s success reflects the strength of our entire Toronto Humane Society community.
Meet the Team: Staff Q&A with Garine Yaacoubian, Social Media Specialist
Tell us about your role at Toronto Humane Society! What do you do, and what do you love most about it?
My role at Toronto Humane Society is Social Media Specialist I manage and create content for our social media platforms and help our audience and community connect with the important work we do here! What I love most I don’t even know where to begin, absolutely everything I guess ultimately what I love most is how excited I am to go to work every day.
What inspired you to work in animal welfare? I’ve been drawn to animals for as long as I can remember As a child, I would constantly ask my parents to take me to friends’ houses just so I could spend time with their pets As I grew older, I became increasingly aware of the mistreatment many animals face, which strengthened my passion for animal welfare.
Over time, my perspective has evolved. Today, I’m especially motivated by helping people who genuinely want to care for their animals but may not have the resources or support they need to do so.
Do you have any pets at home? Tell us about them!
We have our family dog Lilo, although I don’t live with her anymore I do have 3 moss balls: Puff, Poof and I am not sure what to name the third Eventually once I have physical space, I will adopt the legal amount I can.
Lilo
What’s a memorable or heartwarming moment you’ve experienced while working here?
This one brings up a lot of mixed emotions A person came in with a stray kitten they had found, and after learning the kitten had parvovirus and might not survive, they were absolutely devastated Seeing someone care so deeply about an animal that wasn’t even their own brought me to tears.
What stayed with me even more was what happened afterward I was able to turn to my coworkers, share what I was feeling, and find that same level of empathy reflected back. In a difficult moment, there was a real sense of connection and togetherness that reminded me why this work matters and why the people here are so special
I don’t know whether that kitten survived, but regardless, witnessing that kind of compassion from both a member of the public and my colleagues was incredibly moving
What’s one fun fact about you that your coworkers might not know?
I feel like I am an open book, but maybe my love of audiobooks unironically is something most don’t know about it. My obsession with early 2000s pop might throw them off too, seeing I lean towards listening to rock
What’s your go-to comfort food or favourite local spot to eat?
Shawerma at Ghadir, in Scarborough
What’s a skill or hobby you have outside of work that people might not expect?
I have invested a lot of time in both photography and studio art
Rapid-Fire Questions!
Coffee or tea?
Depends on the day/my sleep. Early bird or night owl?
Depends on the day
Sweet or savory?
Both
Books or movies? Both.
Summer or winter?
Depends on how hot or how cold City life or country life? 20 min outside of the city.
Spicy or mild?
Depends on how my tummy is feeling
Reality shows or documentaries?
Documentaries, but reality tv when my brain isn’t working.
Road trip or plane?
Road trip because I am terrified of flying (but I will if I have to).
Board games or video games?
Mostly video games because I just can’t seem to focus on instructions
Staff New Hires, Promotions & Anniversaries
Staff Announcements
Toronto Humane Society is continually growing! Here is a list of new staff members who have joined our team or moved internally
New Hires
Drew Clarke, Marketing Summer Student
Max Brenner, Animal Care Summer Student
Jack Soots, Animal Care Summer Student
Jade Spaull-Tupper, Animal Care Summer Student
Sandhya Ravichandar, Client Service Agent
Juan Sarcos Araujo, Communications Coordinator
Daniel Assadourian, Coordinator Fundraising
Promotion
Megan Doyle promoted to Assistant Manager, Public Veterinary Services
Anniversaries
Diana Fountain, June 29, 2011, 15 years
Ashley Robertson, May 23, 2011, 15 years
Jose Rodriguez, May 16, 2016, 10 years
Erin Elliott, April 1, 2025, 1 year
Jo Coote, April 25, 2025, 1 year
Leanne Haddad, June 30, 2025, 1 year
Jess Lee, June 6, 2025, 1 year
Carolina Moht Tessmann, June 6, 2025, 1 year
Hanna Booth, June 9, 2025, 1 year
Lesly Taylor, June 2, 2025, 1 year
Emani Abdul-Gafoor, June 26, 2025, 1 year
Mohseen Akbarali, May 5, 2025, 1 year
Chandru Gopalakrishnan, May 6, 2025, 1 year
Benefits Reminder – Life Change Events
We would like to remind all staff that if you have family coverage under a Toronto Humane Society benefit plan and experience a life change event, there are important timelines to be aware of
Life change events may include (but are not limited to):
Marriage or entering a common-law relationship
Separation or divorce
Birth or adoption of a child
Loss of coverage for a dependent
Benefit plans have strict enrollment time limits to add newly eligible dependents following a life change event Requests submitted after the allowable timeframe may be subject to medical underwriting.
Additionally, please remember to review and update your beneficiaries regularly and remove any individuals who are no longer applicable
If you have experienced a life change event or have any questions about your benefits coverage, timelines, or required documentation, please reach out to Brittney Stratuik at bstratuik@torontohumanesociety.com for assistance.
Thank you for your attention to this important reminder
Volunteer Updates
Summer Vacations
Many volunteers are off for multiple months during the summer so if you are able to pick up extra shifts it will be really helpful! If you also need to be away please remove your shifts ahead of time so we can get an idea of coverage You only need to email Volunteer Services if you need to miss 3 weeks or more in a row just so we can make note of it For those of you away this summer enjoy your vacations!
Paws In The Park Volunteers Roles Coming Soon
We're excited to announce that Paws in the Park is back Saturday, August 15th, 2026! This year’s event will be running 11am-3pm, with our adoptions event returning 11am-5pm. We will have many volunteer roles that we will be looking to fill. Those roles will be announced in early July so stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved In the meantime, if you have any question about the event, please email: events@torontohumanesociety.com
Volunteer/Foster Parent Town Hall
Our Volunteer/Foster Parent Town Hall will be happening in person and online next month. Here are the details and information on how to register:
Town Hall Date: Saturday July 11th 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm.
Event Details: Join us for our upcoming Volunteer & Foster Parent Town Hall! This hybrid session will take place in person in the 11 River Street boardroom stating at 12pm or online via Zoom, beginning at 12:30 PM.
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/37dd gdU3Q0yhaWWG3TYPZQ#/registration
Onsite Registration Link: Volunteer Foster Town Hall July 11th 12:00pm - 1:30pm – Fill out form
During the town hall, we’ll provide important updates from various departments There will also be dedicated time for questions, feedback, and open discussion.
We encourage all volunteers and foster parents to attend, connect, and be part of the conversation shaping our programs
Agenda:
12:00 - 12:30 - Volunteer Social and Snacks 12:30 - 1:30 - Town Hall in person and on Zoom
Volunteer Services Updates
Foster Parent Updates
Shelter Care Updates
Adoption Updates
Q&A Session
Volunteer Updates
Rat Enrichment
Did you know that our rats are some of the most curious and clever animals in the shelter? Even so, they get fewer volunteer visits than most other small domestic species Many people feel unsure about how to interact with them, or worry about getting bitten. That’s completely understandable –but there are lots of safe, easy ways to spend time with them, no matter your comfort level
If you prefer to keep the cage door closed, your visit still makes a big difference. Sit nearby and talk or read to them so they can get used to your voice. You can also drop in small treats or pieces of produce Some rats enjoy a simple game: place a treat on one side of the cage, then add another on the other side to encourage them to explore.
If you feel comfortable opening the cage door, remember that touching is not required Many rats enjoy play and interaction without direct contact. Try moving or rolling objects in their enclosure to spark their curiosity, or play a game called “treat and retreat” by tossing a treat behind them each time they approach you.
If you are comfortable with gentle handling and a rat seems interested in petting, go slowly Let them come to you first and sniff your hand If they choose to stay, you can softly pet them – many enjoy gentle strokes on their head, cheeks, and just behind their ears
Every visit helps our rats feel safer, more confident, and more ready for adoption. Whether you stay outside the cage or interact more closely, your time matters Give our tiny residents a chance you might be surprised by how much you enjoy getting to know them!
ISO Hearing Training
We have created an informative, fun and interactive session for any animal care volunteers who would like to provide enrichment to animals in our isolation rooms (infection control level 3 rooms) During this session you will learn more about infections commonly found in these rooms and how to keep people and animals safe when providing enrichment including proper PPE use Animals in our isolation rooms need extra love so the more volunteers that can provide enrichment safely in these rooms the better! To attend the ISO hero training you must have completed the following:
All online TalentLMS modules for our animal care roles including Infection Control Training Have already started volunteering in animal care roles
If you have completed the above and are interested in attending a ISO Hero training, the next one will be happening on July 15th at 5PM Here is a link to sign up: ISO Hero Training Booking Page
Volunteer Updates Volunteer Updates
June Anniversaries
Please join us in celebrating volunteer and foster parents who have reached a milestone anniversary this month! Thank you for all your hard work and continued dedication!
1 Year:
Shani H., Foster Parent
3 years:
Jada P, Canine Care Volunteer Elizaveta V., Feline and Special Species Care, and Pet Support Service Agent
5 years: Jessica B., Foster Parent
15 Years:
Ali M, Canine and Feline Care Volunteer
Volunteer Spotlight of the Month
We are so grateful for all our volunteers; we rely heavily on your support to meet our operational needs We want to take time once a month to extend our thanks to a volunteer who has had a positive impact at Toronto Humane Society based on staff/volunteer feedback.
This Month we would like to shine a spotlight on Anna N.!
Anna has been a volunteer for just over a year, and in that time she has made an incredible impact Whether she's helping at community events alongside her amazing husband and adorable children or opening her home to animals in need as a foster caregiver, Anna and her family embody the spirit of compassion that drives our mission forward.
When asked what inspired her family to become foster volunteers, Anna's answer reflects the deep love they share for animals. "My family and I have a soft spot for animals of all sorts. When we first came to the Toronto Humane Society, we wanted to bring home pretty much all of the animals that we saw. As my kids would put it, we wanted to foster to give them all a vacation home at our place" That caring mindset has helped countless animals experience the comfort, safety, and love of a home environment while they await their next chapter.
Looking back on her time with Toronto Humane Society, Anna is amazed by how quickly the year has passed. "Time flew by! I can't believe it's been over a year now since my family and I started volunteering at the Toronto Humane Society. It's been a phenomenal experience and we are very grateful for the opportunity"
Through both fostering and event volunteering, Anna and her family have gained valuable knowledge about animal care while building meaningful connections with the organization. "We appreciate learning about best practices in animal care and we love learning from the people who make it all happen each and every day Whether we're onsite helping out at community events or at home caring for our foster animals, we feel good about doing our part knowing that we are connected to the incredibly hardworking teams at the Toronto Humane Society"
Like many foster parents, Anna's family has collected countless memories and lessons throughout their journey Among their biggest takeaways:
Volunteer Updates Volunteer Updates
1. Animal care is incredibly rewarding but it isn't always easy.
"Animal care is profoundly fulfilling, but it is no easy feat, especially when it comes to puppies," Anna said, adding that her husband and kids have come to discover this as well
2. Every animal is unique.
Not every enrichment activity is immediately embraced by every foster pet, and that's perfectly okay Anna says they've learned not to take it personally and instead focus on discovering what works best for each individual animal.
3. Trust is one of the greatest rewards. One of the most meaningful moments comes when a foster pet truly bonds with its caregivers As Anna's husband likes to joke, it's when they see him as more than just "someone who cooks for them and picks up after them"
Today, Anna and her family are caring for their 13th foster pet, and they continue to learn something new with every animal they welcome into their home "Each animal that we bring home has their own challenges to overcome, but they also have their own amazing qualities that shine through. My family and I love finding fun and creative ways to connect with our foster pets and help them bring out their very best"
One of the family's favorite traditions is having the children serve as bedtime reading buddies for their foster animals "My kids take delight in being their reading buddies at bedtime, and I have to admit that's an absolute bonus for me at the end of the day!"
Through her dedication, kindness, and willingness to open her home and heart, Anna has made a lasting impact on the animals in her care. We are grateful for everything she and her family do to support Toronto Humane Society and help animals thrive
Thank you, Anna, for being such an incredible part of our volunteer community! Please join us in celebrating Anna and her family this month!
Adoptable Pet of the Month: Priscilla
If you’ve ever wondered what Priscilla is really like beyond her photos and digital biography this is your chance to meet her through the eyes of the people who know her best.
We asked her foster family to share their honest, everyday experiences so you can get to know the real Priscilla: her gentle heart, her silly little quirks, and the deep love she gives so freely.
What was your first impression of Priscilla when she arrived in your care?
The very first thing I noticed about Priscilla was her incredible sense of wonder. She stood gazing out the window, completely captivated by the world outside. She emanated such pure, happy, child-like curiosity that total strangers walking past couldn't help but smile back at her
How would you describe Priscilla’s personality to someone meeting her for the first time?
Priscilla is pure love She is incredibly gentle and calm, and forms a deep, soulful bond with her person. She expresses her affection by always being near you, offering the sweetest, quiet companionship But she also has the perfect amount of diva she can be a hilarious little squirt and shows her sassy side when she’s feeling playful.
What are some of Priscilla’s favourite activities or things that make her happiest?
What makes Priscilla happiest is YOU, her person. She is the ultimate velcro dog and enjoys simply being close to you Reading a book? Watching TV?
Cooking dinner? Relaxing? Priscilla just wants to rest quietly right next to you and offer the sweetest cuddles. She is a constant, peaceful companion both in the home and while exploring the world together on gentle walks
What does a typical day with Priscilla look like?
From the moment she wakes up to the time she tucks in for the night, a typical day with Priscilla is calm, easy, and full of small joys She greets meals and walks with an adorable little “happy dance,” then settles into a peaceful rhythm of companionship She walks beautifully on leash, stays close to her person, and is just as content napping quietly nearby while life goes on around her. When left alone, she settles in calmly and waits patiently for her people to return
What helps Priscilla feel comfortable and secure in new situations?
Priscilla looks to her person for reassurance in new or uncertain situations Because she bonds so deeply, a calm voice and steady presence are exactly what help her feel safe and secure.
What was your first impression of Priscilla when she arrived in your care?
The very first thing I noticed about Priscilla was her incredible sense of wonder. She stood gazing out the window, completely captivated by the world outside She emanated such pure, happy, child-like curiosity that total strangers walking past couldn't help but smile back at her.
How has Priscilla grown or gained confidence since being in your care?
Priscilla came into foster care about 30 pounds overweight, which caused her discomfort and limited her mobility. With a dedicated weight loss plan, she lost 30 pounds in just over three months. The difference has been remarkable she now moves with ease, comfort, and confidence, and is clearly feeling so much better in her body.
What are walks and outdoor adventures with Priscilla like?
Priscilla is a wonderful walking companion. She naturally adjusts her pace to yours and walks with no tension on the leash She is attentive and responsive to gentle cues, making her easy and enjoyable to walk. She does prefer shorter outings in bad weather like rain or snow, especially given her history as a stray.
How does Priscilla show affection and bond with her people?
Priscilla is an absolute cuddlebug who bonds deeply Her favourite place in the world is wherever her person is If she’s allowed on the furniture, she’ll snuggle in as close as possible often resting her head on your lap or shoulder. She has so much love and devotion to give.
What type of home or family do you think would help Priscilla thrive?
Priscilla is incredibly adaptable and can thrive in many types of homes whether that’s an apartment or a house, a quiet household or a busier one What matters most is that she is loved, safe, and understood. In return, she offers steady companionship, affection, and plenty of personality
pet steps help her comfortably access higher furniture, which she already uses like a pro It also helps to give her a clear “goodbye” cue when leaving the home once she understands the routine, she settles in calmly and waits peacefully for your return
Why do you think someone would be lucky to adopt Priscilla?
Priscilla’s past hasn’t been easy She came into care as an emaciated stray with physical scars and was later adopted before sadly returning after her adopter passed away. Despite everything she has experienced, she remains gentle, trusting, and full of love Priscilla has so much affection to give, and she is simply waiting for someone to give her the safety and forever home she deserves.
Interested in adopting Priscilla?
If you’d like to adopt Priscilla, please email adoption@torontohumanesociety.com
Please share this post to help Priscilla find the loving home she’s been waiting for
Happy Tails: Lyle’s 6 Month Update
Hello wonderful Humane Society team. Just wanted to give you an update on Lyle!
“As we approached the six-month anniversary of rescuing Lyle, we wanted to share our story. Choosing to adopt Lyle from the Toronto Humane Society is, without a doubt, the best decision our family has ever made
It all started on November 27, when a video plea caught our attention on Facebook Looking at his face, and hearing his story, something just clicked, and we sent an email inquiring about him that very afternoon. After a few phone calls with the wonderful shelter staff, an appointment was set for a meet-and-greet on November 30 We are incredibly grateful for the dedicated staff members who cared for Lyle during his time there
and who made his transition to our family so seamless From the moment we officially brought him home, it felt as though he was always meant to be a part of our family. He fits into our lives perfectly, stepping into our home and immediately stealing our hearts.
Lyle's adjustment to our home has been nothing short of amazing. He is an absolute social butterfly with people, overflowing with affection and spreading joy to every single human he meets His gentle, loving nature has made him an instant favorite among our friends and family. He has truly shown us his goofy, joyful side; he absolutely loves his toys, gets incredibly excited for treats, and is always looking for the next belly rub He also has the best time zoomie-ing and running freely around the backyard, completely embracing his
new freedom After spending over a year waiting in shelters, he now spends his nights happily curled up right between us in our King-size bed.
While he is a total sweetheart with people, Lyle does struggle with dog aggression We are currently dedicated to his rehabilitation, working hard with him every day to help him feel safe and ecure around other pups and animals. .
Rescuing Lyle didn't just save his life; it completely enriched ours We will always be thankful to everyone at the shelter who kept him safe until we could find each other.
He is our loyal companion, our constant source of laughter, and a reminder of the incredible power of adoption. We cannot imagine our home without him."
Donut Day Recap: A Small Thank You for a Big Community Events
On June 14th, we hosted a simple but heartfelt Donut Day for staff and volunteers as a small gesture of appreciation for the incredible work you do every day across Toronto Humane Society.
The day featured coffee and donuts from Frenchie’s Doughnuts & Bakery alongside delicious vegan donuts from Machino Donuts. Whether you stopped by between tasks or made a point of taking a break with colleagues, it was great to see people pausing to enjoy a moment together
Alongside the treats, we also set up a colouring station and a DIY beaded bracelet activity, offering a chance to unwind, get creative, and connect with one another in a more relaxed space.
Events like this are a small way for us to say thank you but the appreciation behind them is anything but small. The commitment, compassion, and energy shown by staff, volunteers, and foster caregivers every day is what makes our work possible
Save the Date
We’re looking forward to seeing everyone again soon for our next appreciation event: June 25 for a Pride-themed BBQ celebration
More details to come, but mark your calendars!
Doors Open Toronto: Thank You for Helping Us Welcome the Community
On May 23 and 24, Toronto Humane Society once again took part in Doors Open Toronto, welcoming community members into our space to learn more about our programs and the work that happens behind the scenes every day.
Even with rainy conditions across the weekend, staff and volunteers showed up ready to share our mission, lead tours, and help visitors better understand the full continuum of care that supports animals from intake through to our training program and everything in-between
A special thank you goes to everyone who helped make the weekend possible from guiding guests through the building to answering questions and keeping things running smoothly throughout both days.
We also want to extend a sincere thank you to our Facilities and Animal Care teams for the extra effort that went into preparing the shelter and
ensuring the space looked clean, welcoming, and visitor-ready Your work helped create a positive first impression for everyone who walked through our doors.
Despite the weather, it was a meaningful opportunity to connect with the community and highlight the impact of our programs
Thank you to everyone who helped make it happen
Introducing Our Dog Zodiac Tote Bag Collection
We’re excited to introduce the newest addition to our zodiac-inspired merchandise: the Dog Zodiac Tote Bag Collection
Each tote features a uniquely illustrated dog paired with a zodiac sign, blending personality, playfulness, and a little cosmic charm. These designs celebrate the traits of each sign through the lens of our favourite companions dogs
This launch builds on the success of our existing cat zodiac collection and expands the concept to include even more ways for animal lovers to connect with the stars and support Toronto Humane Society at the same time.
The Dog Zodiac Tote Collection is now available at shop.torontohumanesociety.com
