In a heartening testament to its dedication to providing innovative programs and compassionate services that support the well-being of pets and people, the GTHS proudly announces its consecutive receipt of the PetSmart Incubator Grant for the years 2023 and 2024.
Phase 1: Building Bridges and Fostering Understanding (2023)
In 2023, GTHS embarked on a new partnership alongside the Saugeen First Nation community, situated near Southampton, Ontario. Supported by a grant totaling $60,000, the primary objective of the inaugural phase was to cultivate meaningful relationships, foster inclusivity, facilitate access to vital veterinary care, and to better understand the unique needs of the community.
Throughout the year, the GTHS planned and executed a series of impactful initiatives, including:
- Organizing two BBQs with the Saugeen First Nation community, encouraging open dialogue and the opportunity to learn and connect.
- Conducting five spay/neuter surgery days to promote responsible pet ownership and curb overpopulation.
- Hosting a two-day wellness clinic aimed at providing essential healthcare services to beloved animal companions.
- Delivering a Pet First Aid certification course, empowering community members with life-saving skills.
- Hosting a behavior seminar, emphasizing the importance of understanding and nurturing the bond between pets and their human counterparts.
Additionally, the GTHS collaborated with the Saugeen Food Bank to establish a Pet Pantry Depot, ensuring that families facing economic hardship have immediate access to nutritious food and essential accessories for their pets.
Phase 2: Long-Term Solutions to Further Enhance Wellbeing (2024 and Beyond)
Building upon the successes of the inaugural phase, the GTHS is honored to announce its continued partnership with the Saugeen First Nation community, sustained by a substantial grant of $150,000 over three years. With an unwavering commitment to promoting inclusion and wellbeing, the focus shifts towards implementing long-term solutions to encourage self-directed pet care practices within the community.
Key initiatives planned for 2024 include:
- Collaborating with Toronto Humane Society (THS) and Grand River Veterinary Hospital to pool resources and staff in order to support ongoing veterinary wellness clinics.
- Hosting a major wellness clinic, encompassing SNAP testing for heartworm, flea and tick prevention, wellness exams, microchipping, and vaccinations. Scheduled from May 30th to June 1st, this clinic aims to promote comprehensive healthcare and disease prevention for pets.
- Conduct a spay/neuter and wellness clinic from September 26th-29th, further strengthening efforts to curb overpopulation and promote responsible pet ownership.
- Continuing to organize community BBQs, fostering a sense of unity and collective responsibility towards animal welfare.
- Sustaining the Pet Pantry Depot initiative through the Saugeen Food Bank, ensuring continuous access to essential resources for pet owners in need.
- Conducting educational events aimed at empowering community members with knowledge and resources necessary to care for their pets effectively.
As GTHS looks towards the future, the overarching goal remains clear: to work together with the Saugeen First Nation community to ensure their unique needs are met with respect to education, resources, and assistance needed to further enhance the loving relationship that exists between pets and their human companions.
