To help more animals find loving homes, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is reducing adoption fees by 20 per cent, courtesy of HomeEquity Bank – and waiving adoption fees entirely for senior pets – from Sept. 26-28 at its animal centres across the province.
iAdopt: Furever Homes, presented by HomeEquity Bank, is intended to connect people and pets so both can thrive. The goal of the three-day adoption event is to place as many animals as possible into loving homes, with a special emphasis on creating perfect matches between our senior animals in care and adopters 55+.
Despite having so much to offer, senior animals are often overlooked in shelters and wait longer to find a loving home. They are typically calm, well-mannered, and already house-trained, making them an ideal match for older adopters seeking a steady, reliable friend. Adopting a pet can provide life-enriching benefits for older Canadians – from improved mental and physical well-being to a stronger sense of community and purpose.
“Pets offer so much more than just companionship. Research consistently reveals pets provide a sense of purpose, routine, physical activity and a reduced sense of loneliness some older adults may experience,” says Niary Toodakian, Vice President, Customer Insights and Brand, HomeEquity Bank. “Older Canadians are living vibrant, active, connected lives. They show us that age brings the wisdom, compassion, and commitment that makes them the perfect pet owners.”
If you’re not able to adopt, you can make a difference for an animal by becoming a foster volunteer. For empty nesters facing lonely houses this time of year as their kids head off to school, fostering can be a happy distraction.
“If you could use some companionship or purpose in your life, fostering might be the perfect way to give back to animals in need,” says Lindsey Bunn, Manager, Ontario SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre. “It makes a world of difference for animals who need a bit more TLC than an animal centre can provide to help prepare them for adoption.”
To see animals available for adoption, or to learn more about becoming a foster volunteer, visit ontariospca.ca
