How your pet handles the colder weather depends on many factors, ranging from breed to age and general health. Many pets love the cold weather, while others are only interested in quick bathroom breaks and heading back to the warmth of the house.

Whenever you are outside in winter, always look for signs of discomfort due to cold, including shivering, running towards or standing near the door, and paw-lifting. Here are some further tips to help keep your pet safe and sound during the cold months ahead.

Make the walk a little shorter. Instead of one or two long walks, break your walk time into shorter segments that will end before anyone gets too cold. It can be wise not to go as far from home as well so that, should you notice your pet feeling the cold, you are not too far from home. You can still cover lots of distance when you go in circles!

Know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Pets are susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite, just like humans. Hypothermia symptoms may include shivering, whining, lethargy, and fur and skin that is cold to the touch.   Frostbite may be less noticeable and may take some time before the symptoms appear in the form of blisters or skin ulcers, stiffness or clumsiness, and areas of blackened or dead skin.  Frostbite is most likely to occur on the paw pads, tails, and ears. If you think your pet could be showing signs of hypothermia or frostbite, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Clean your pet’s paws after a walk. Winter walks can take you through many nasty chemicals and substances that can harm your pet, including salt, ice melter, and anti-freeze products. Check for chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin as well. To clean your pet’s paws after a walk, gently wipe them with a soft towel or cloth soaked in warm (not hot) water and wrung so it is only damp. This will melt away snow and ice and remove any salt buildup. Once you’re finished, dry off their paw with another towel.

Paw protectors, which are available in a wide selection of styles and sizes, maybe another option to keep your pet’s paws clean and are widely available at most pet stores. But remember that some pets will wear them without issue, and others may not like them.  Go along with whichever your pet will tolerate.

Just like in summer, never leave them alone in the car. A vehicle can act like a freezer, trapping in cold air, which can quickly endanger your pet. If you must travel with your pet, never leave them unattended in your vehicle, even with the engine and heat running.

Save the shorter haircuts for the summer. A little extra hair will provide your pet with that much-needed extra warmth. A quick trim should avoid clinging snow chunks and salt crystals for long-haired dogs. For those less shaggy short-haired pups, a nice coat or sweater with a high collar will help them stay cozy on those chilly winter walks.

Remember, whether you’re walking around the neighbourhood or playing at one of the off-leash parks – always stay with your pet, be aware of their body-language and comfort level, and be prepared to call it a day should your dog show signs of discomfort.

As pet owners, we often adore young animals’ playful energy and exuberance. However, a unique and heartwarming pleasure comes with embracing the golden years of a senior pet. Just like humans, the aging process often comes with a wealth of endearing qualities and moments to treasure. Let’s explore the joys of having a senior pet and the profound bond that can develop during these precious twilight years.

Calm Companionship – Senior pets often possess a calm and relaxed demeanor, making them the perfect companions for peaceful moments at home. They are content to curl up beside you, offering a soothing presence and a quiet companionship that can bring a sense of tranquility and solace to your life.

Enjoying Every Moment – Senior pets teach us the importance of cherishing every moment we have together. As they age, we become acutely aware of the passage of time and the need to make the most of each day. Every wag of their tail or purr of contentment becomes a treasured gift, reminding us to savor the present and create beautiful memories. Realizing that one day you will miss the walks, the constant scratches at the door to go out, or even the scratches on the chair can be incredibly grounding.

Adopting a Senior Pet – We often see senior pets enter the shelter for a variety of reasons.  They may be simply stray, require medical care, or their previous owner may have passed away.  These pets, who are used to a happy home, suddenly find themselves in a strange environment with no familiar people or places in sight. While all adopters are special and precious to us, those who open their lives and homes to senior pets touch our hearts deeply. Often, these pets require additional care that comes with extra expense and may only have a few precious years left in their lives. Yet, their special human angels take them in any way, allowing them to live out their remaining time surrounded by love and compassion.

The joys of having a senior pet are immeasurable. These loving souls bring us comfort, companionship, and a reminder to appreciate the simple moments in life. They offer us a profound connection and teach us valuable lessons about love, loyalty, and living in the present. Even though we know that a difficult day lies ahead, they do not and live each day as it comes. Let us celebrate these treasured companions and embrace the beautiful journey we share with them as they gracefully enter their twilight years.

In just about every community, there are homeless, lost, and unwanted animals.  In our province, too many cats roam our city streets and rural areas, and homeless dogs wander alongside their feline counterparts. As the fallout from the Pandemic continues, the RHS has seen over 1,600 cats and over 600 dogs enter the Shelter this year, which is an alarming 15% increase in the case of the canines.  Many of these animals had endured starvation, numbing cold, or blistering heat.  Others had been injured by vehicles, other animals, predators, or even people.  The RHS uses many programs and initiatives to help save the lives of these lost or unwanted souls and is able to return many to their families or find homes for most of them, but it is unfortunately not sustainable long-term. Should the trend continue, it could be devastating for our animals and community.

The single most effective solution to pet overpopulation is spaying or neutering your pet. By preventing unwanted litters of puppies and kittens, we spare these animals the suffering that many will endure as they try to live without a home and proper care, threatened by disease, the elements, and other animals and people. In addition to this, sterilization has benefits for you and your pet. Spayed and neutered pets have reduced rates of certain cancers (particularly of the reproductive systems), they typically roam less and thus avoid the dangers of the streets, they are less prone to “marking” and spraying, and they tend to show less aggression and dominance behaviours.

In spite of the benefits to the individual pet, their family, and the community, many pet owners still choose not to sterilize their pets and for a myriad of reasons.  Some, unfortunately, are fuelled by the many myths that float around the internet and other places.

Here are some truths behind some of the more widespread myths regarding sterilizing your pets:

MYTH: My children should experience the miracle of birth, so my pet should have a litter.
FACT: The miracle of birth is quickly forgotten when these litters become a burden when no homes can be found for them.  Often, they experience unbearable suffering on the streets, are abandoned in a field, are run over by vehicles, are attacked by other animals or become ill due to lack of proper living conditions, food, and care. Teach children that all life is precious by spaying and neutering your pets.

MYTH: I want to breed my pet.
FACT: There are many reputable breeders who breed their animals responsibly, and most already have homes for offspring before they are bred.  Unfortunately, too many people simply become “backyard breeders” and contribute to the number of unwanted animals by breeding animals in the hope of a quick profit. This was particularly true as some saw an opportunity to cash in on high pet demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many make the mistake of assuming they will be able to find homes for the offspring, only to find that there is no market for them. Often, these pets, or their offspring, end up neglected, abandoned, or taking up valuable space and resources in Shelters.

MYTH: I don’t want my male dog or cat to feel like less of a male.
FACT: The reality is that this is more about you than your dog. Dogs do not have any concept of ego, masculinity or ego. Neutering your pet will not change his basic personality or give him some sort of identity crisis.

MYTH: It’s better to have one litter before spaying a female pet.
FACT: There is substantial medical research that indicates that the opposite is true. Pets spayed before their first heat are typically healthier and avoid many ailments related to their reproductive systems.

MYTH: It’s expensive to have a pet spayed or neutered.
FACT: While there may be costs to having the surgery performed, it can be minimal compared to the potential of long-term costs incurred by a non-altered pet, impound fees, and increased license fees. Each dog and cat adoption through the Regina Humane Society includes spay/neuter surgery. In addition, your new family member’s adoption includes vaccinations, identification tattoo, microchip and a post-adoption veterinary exam.  This adds up to over $800 in value!

Simply put, spay and neutering our pets saves lives.  By helping our own pets live healthier lives, and preventing unwanted pets suffering on the streets, it is one of the best and easiest means of creating a healthy and manageable pet population in Regina.

Each canine and feline pet adoption at the RHS includes spay or neuter surgery, so you never have to worry about additional costs or contributing to pet overpopulation.  Our Subsidized Spay/Neuter Program helps ensure that financial constraints are not a barrier for those families who want to be a part of the solution.  If you would like to learn more about the program, please visit our website, here.

Losing a pet is an emotionally devastating experience that can leave a profound void in our lives. Whether it is a loyal dog, a playful cat, or any other cherished animal companion, the bond we develop with our pets often transcends words. When they pass away, we are left with feelings of grief, sadness, and a deep sense of loss. While the pain may seem unbearable, there are ways to navigate this difficult journey of mourning and find solace in the memories we shared with our beloved pets.

1. Allow Yourself to Grieve: The loss of a pet is a genuine loss, and it is important to acknowledge and validate your feelings of grief. Give yourself permission to experience the sadness and allow the tears to flow. Each person grieves differently, so don’t rush the healing process. Remember, it’s crucial to be patient with yourself and accept that it takes time to heal.

2. Create a Memorial: Honoring your pet’s memory can be a comforting way to cope with the loss. Consider creating a special memorial or tribute. This could be a photo album, a memory box with their belongings, or planting a tree in their honor. Such gestures allow you to reminisce about the joyful moments you shared and keep the memory of your pet alive.

3. Seek Support: During this difficult time, it can be immensely helpful to seek support from friends, family, a counselor or even support groups specifically dedicated to pet loss. Surrounding yourself with individuals who understand the depth of your grief can provide solace and validation. Sharing stories and memories of your beloved pet can also help in the healing process.

4. Express Your Emotions: Finding ways to express your emotions can be therapeutic. Write a letter to your pet, expressing your love and gratitude. Keeping a journal about your feelings or creating artwork can also provide an outlet for your emotions. Engaging in these activities can offer a sense of closure and allow you to express what may be difficult to put into words.

5. Take Care of Yourself: Grieving takes a toll on your emotional and physical well-being so it’s crucial to prioritize self-care during this period. Eat nutritious meals, get enough sleep, and engage in activities that bring you joy and peace. Engaging in regular exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature can help alleviate the pain and uplift your spirit.

6. Consider a Ritual or Ceremony: Just as funerals and similar events help us following the death of a friend or family member, some people find comfort in organizing a small ritual or ceremony to say goodbye to their pet. This can be a private event or involve close friends and family members. Creating a meaningful and personal goodbye allows you to honor the bond you shared with your pet and provide closure.

7. Open Your Heart to New Companionship: While it may seem too soon, opening your heart to a new pet when you are ready can bring healing and joy back into your life. Remember, the love we have for our departed pets does not diminish; it simply creates space for new relationships and new memories to be formed.

8. Cremation: Having your pet cremated offers the opportunity to have their ashes with you or you wish may inter them in a place that has special meaning to you. The RHS Pet Cremation Service offers professional and respectful cremations services to most area veterinary clinics and the public. You can learn more here: https://reginahumanesociety.ca/programs-services/pet-cremation-services/

Losing a beloved pet is a painful and challenging experience, but it is important to remember that you are not alone in your grief. Allow yourself to grieve, seek support, and cherish the memories of your furry friend. Embrace the healing journey, and with time, you will find solace and begin to cherish the unconditional love and companionship that your pet brought into your life.

Bringing a new cat or kitten into your home is an extremely exciting and life-changing time for both of you. By taking a little time to plan, you can ensure that you and your new furry friend have the time of your lives, together.

Creating a Comfortable and Healthy Home for Your Cat

Before bringing your cat home, prepare a quiet, secure room where they can get used to the sounds and smells of their new home.  Ideally, the room will include a comfy place to sleep, food, water, a litter box, some toys, and a couple of places to hide as they may be a little nervous at first.  They will likely, in time, want to explore.  Gradually allow access to other areas of the home and let them explore at their own pace.

Quality Food

Feed your cat a balanced, age-appropriate diet, following your veterinarian’s recommendations, and always have fresh water available in a clean bowl. Some cats love drinking running water from a tap or pet water fountain, so you may try these as well. A well-fed and hydrated kitty is a happy kitty!

Routine is Awesome

Cats thrive on routine, so try to establish consistent feeding, play, and grooming times. This predictability will help your new pet feel secure and comfortable in their new home.

Help Them Love the Litter Box

Cats can be picky creatures and appreciate a clean litter box. Scoop waste daily and change the litter completely at least once a week. Place the litter box in a quiet, always accessible location away from food and water. Should you notice that they stop using the litterbox or are defecating or urinating outside of the litterbox, consult with your veterinarian to ensure no medical conditions are at play.

Grooming

While cats are superb natural groomers, regular grooming by you will help prevent hairballs, matting, excessive shedding and maintain a healthy coat. Most cats will love a good brushing once per week, and many have no issues having their claws trimmed too.

Playtime

Play provides much-needed physical and mental exercise and stimulation for your cat. Chasing down toys and batting them around the room (and eventually under the couch, inevitably!) allows your pet to engage in their natural behaviours of hunting and stalking.  Be sure to have plenty of toys for them, including a few that you participate with as well, such as cat wands.  This will help build your relationship and trust.  Be sure to let your cat capture the toy occasionally so they do not lose interest.

What to Scratch?

Cats have a natural need to scratch.  When doing so, they stretch out their muscles, shed old claw material and mark their territory. Always place a couple of scratchers or cat trees where they are allowed to scratch and encourage them to do so.  If you do not, they will find a place on their own, and it will likely be your couch or easy chair! In addition, cats love to climb and perch to observe their cat-dom from above.  A nice cat tree with a place to rest or snooze is always a great idea.

Veterinary Care

A post-adoption veterinary exam is included with each adoption at the Regina Humane Society. Be sure to schedule your appointment soon after adoption to establish a baseline of your cat’s health and address any potential issues. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care are essential for maintaining your cat’s well-being.

Spaying or Neutering

Each feline adoption at the RHS includes spay/neuter surgery to help prevent overpopulation, reduce the risk of certain health problems, and improve your cat’s behaviour. If you adopt or bring a pet into your home that is not sterilized, ensure that you consult with your veterinarian about having the surgery done as soon as is possible.  Sadly, there are more pets than there are homes for them in our community, and bringing more litters into the world contributes to animal suffering and neglect.

Taking care of a newly adopted cat requires patience, love, and attention to their needs. By providing a safe and comfortable environment, proper nutrition, regular grooming, and engaging activities, you’ll set the foundation for a happy, healthy life together.

To see all available pets at the RHS, please click here.

Camping is one of the most popular summer pastimes in Saskatchewan! And, why not?  We get outside in the fresh air, it’s cost-effective and a fun way to enjoy the great outdoors and connect with your friends and family. Often, we include our canine friends in our plans. If you’re thinking of camping with your dog (or even your cat!), here are some important safety tips to keep in mind.

Before you leave home:

• Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date as you never know what they might encounter in the forest or campground.
• Ensure that your pet is microchipped and has tags on their collar with a phone number where you can be reached while on vacation.  Should they decide to investigate where that chipmunk lives and wander off and get lost, this may be critical in reuniting with your pet.
• Bring their favourite toys and blankets. Being in a car or camper for hours can get boring!  Make the experience fun and comfortable for your pet by taking along a few favourite toys and blankets so they’re happy at their home away from home.
• Spend some time with your pet in the camper or tent. If you can, you might even plan a sleepover in the backyard or driveway to make sure they’re comfortable and have a chance to explore the accommodations.  You don’t want any unpleasant surprises after traveling for a few days to the campsite!
• Plan stops along the way for pee breaks and ensure you have available water for your pet.
• Familiarize yourself with any local laws at your destination that may restrict where pets are allowed to be, breed-specific legislation, and any other “need to knows” about having pets in that area.

At the campsite:

• Always keep your pet on a leash as there could be other pets or wildlife in the area.  You are also in unfamiliar territory that your pet may want to explore, creating a risk that they may get lost.  You may also consider bringing a crate to ensure your pet stays with you and to make them comfortable if they use one at home.
• Provide plenty of shade and water. Our Saskatchewan summers can get extremely hot at times, and it is crucial that your pet has a cool place to keep cool and relax.
• Never leave your pet unattended, in a hot tent or car. Be sure you are aware of your pet’s condition and that they are not exposed to hazardous situations and conditions.

Watch for potential pet hazards:

• Keep your pet away from the campfire: Campfires are notorious for sending sparks flying in all directions.  Burning embers pose a serious threat to those close to the fire, especially your pets.  Be sure to have fire safety equipment on hand.
• Be aware of any potentially hazardous plants that may grow where you are camping and be sure not to expose your pets to any that may be there.
• Never let your pet drink from streams or ponds as they can be sources of infectious bacteria or other pollutants. Always have clean potable water available to your pet.
• Check for ticks and other parasites after you venture through wooded areas or through tall grasses.  Burrs, thorns, and other plant-based hazards should also be avoided or removed if they become entangled in your pet’s fur.

The Regina Humane Society (RHS) would like to thank the City of Regina for approving the Society’s application for a 2023 property tax exemption for it’s new Animal Community Centre.  This exemption allows the RHS to direct donor funds directly to supporting the care of animals at the RHS.

For many, adopting a pet is one of the best decisions they ever make, leading to a lifetime with a loyal companion and the opportunity to change a homeless pet’s life forever.  Every year, tens of thousands of pets enter a shelter in Canada.  Choosing to adopt an animal from an animal welfare organization instead of buying one from an online marketplace not only helps reduce the number of animals in shelters, but it also helps prevent the mistreatment of animals in our community.

People buying pets online often, without realizing it, support puppy mills and other unethical breeding practices.  This was particularly prevalent during the recent pandemic years, when demand for dogs was extremely high as online breeders took advantage of the opportunity to make money, often at the animals’ expense. This can result in far more animals winding up in shelters and putting increased pressure on already stressed shelter resources.

Choosing to adopt a pet rather than buying one online not only helps reduce the number of pets in shelters, but it also saves lives and has numerous other benefits too!  Here are just a few of them:

You Save a Life

First and foremost, adopting a pet is an act of kindness. You are giving a forever home to an animal that might otherwise be euthanized due to overcrowding in shelters. By adopting a shelter pet, you are providing him or her with a forever home.  Full shelters carry the risk of disease and strain shelter resources.  By adopting, you not only provide a safe, loving home for your new pet, but you also help create space for other animals in need.

You Save Money

Adopting from an animal welfare organization is typically more affordable than buying online.  All canine and feline pet adoptions from the RHS include first vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, a microchip, a tattoo and a post-adoption veterinary exam.  Typically, these services would cost over $700 if you needed to do them on your own with the purchase of a pet through an online marketplace.  All efforts are made to ensure your pet is healthy and happy before you bring them home.

A Variety of Animals to Choose From

Typically, when adopting from a shelter, you will have a wide range of animals of different breeds, ages and personalities.  Additionally, pets have been assessed both medically and behaviorally by trained professionals so you will be made aware of any potential issues. Whether you are looking for an active dog to join you on your morning run or a cozy cat to curl up with on the couch, these assessments will help find the perfect pet match for you!

Support After Your Adoption

Animal welfare organizations work very hard to ensure that each animal is healthy and well-socialized and is set up for success as they transition to their new home.  At the RHS, our Adoption Counselors will answer any questions you may have about your new pet and adjusting to your new life together.  The Society also has numerous resources on our website and a reward-based dog training program to set you off on the right paw!  Adopting a pet can be one of the most rewarding experiences that not only benefits the pet, but the adopter as well.  If you are considering adding a new furry friend to your family, visit the RHS or click below to see our available pets and learn more about the wonderful world of pet adoption.

Who doesn’t love the fun and excitement of a new puppy? While you are bound to enjoy countless days of fun and laughter, a new puppy comes with significant responsibility and this includes providing proper veterinary care.

Cases of canine parvovirus are not uncommon in our city, and we see it from time to time in dogs who are brought to the RHS. The most effective way to protect your new puppy from contracting preventable diseases is to provide them with their core vaccines, and to maintain them as they grow older. In the case of canine parvovirus, an “ounce of prevention” can save more than just a “pound of cure:” it can save a life!

What is Canine Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause life-threatening infections in dogs and puppies. The virus attacks the lining of the intestine and many immune system cells, including some in the bone marrow. The virus is shed in large quantities in feces and vomit from infected dogs. It is spread to other dogs through direct contact or contact with contaminated surfaces.  Parvovirus is a very robust virus and can contaminate just about anything it comes into contact with including shoes, hands, collars, leashes, feeding bowls, indoor and outdoor surfaces and your dog’s paws and fur. The virus can persist on all of these surfaces for months, even after visible contamination is gone. This means that there is an ever-present risk of virus exposure in most public places that dogs frequent, as well as in yards and homes where dogs suffering from parvovirus infection have previously been housed.

Signs of Parvovirus Infection

The most common and noticeable symptoms of parvovirus infection are loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea, which can be bloody. Parvovirus can be fatal, with young puppies typically at the highest risk. Aggressive veterinary treatment is required and is successful in most cases. Unfortunately, even with the most advanced and intensive care, some dogs and puppies are unable to survive the infection. While parvovirus is not the only ailment that may cause these symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary care promptly if they occur. 

Treatment of Parvovirus

There is no specific treatment for a parvovirus infection – ultimately, the dog’s immune system must eradicate the virus. Treatment is required to manage dehydration and secondary bacterial infections while the immune system recovers and does its work. This can include hospitalization for IV fluid therapy, medications to control vomiting, intensive medical monitoring, and potentially antibiotics if required. Veterinary care for dogs and puppies with parvovirus infections can be costly due to the need for extensive care, isolation procedures to prevent disease spread, and potential multiple-day hospitalization.

Preventing Canine Parvovirus Infection

Vaccination is extremely effective in preventing parvovirus infection. Protection is achieved through a series of initial vaccinations, followed by regular booster vaccinations to ensure that immunity is maintained throughout the pet’s lifetime. It is rare for a dog that has received all recommended vaccinations to develop an infection. It is important to understand, however, that puppies must not be considered protected until after they have received all of their initial doses of vaccine. It is recommended that unvaccinated dogs and puppies be kept out of public areas to reduce their risk of exposure to parvovirus when they are most vulnerable. We recommend that you consult your veterinarian about when it is safe to start taking your pet to these areas after it has been vaccinated.

Keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date is an important way to help keep them healthy, so that you can look forward to a lifetime of enjoyment and companionship.