January 30, 2025 ·
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By Brian Lockhart
The County of Simcoe and the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society have partnered to protect both unhoused people and their pets from the hard winter conditions.
Through a donation from the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre, individuals experiencing homelessness can bring their pets to the Barrie East warming centre.
The donation includes essential supplies such as food, crates, dog jackets, and ongoing support through the winter season.
“This donation has the potential to save lives this winter for not only unhoused individuals but also the animals they love and care for by allowing people to come inside with their pets,” said County of Simcoe Warden Basil Clarke. “We recognize that pets are family members and often provide crucial emotional support and motivation for their owners. Thanks to this donation, we can now make the Barrie East warming centre pet friendly.”
The Barrie East Warming Centre welcomes up to 20 individuals at a time when temperatures dip below -10°C. This temperature-activated warming centre is now pet-friendly, and operates up to seven nights per week, 24 hours per day.
“Our pets are part of our families, and no one should have to choose between seeking shelter and staying with their beloved companion,” said Shannon Laflamme, community outreach coordinator with the Ontario SPCA Barrie Animal Centre. “This partnership ensures that both unhoused individuals and their pets can stay safe and warm during the harsh winter months.”
The warming services, funded by the County of Simcoe, complement regular municipal service contributions as part of its 10-point Homelessness Prevention Strategy.
As winter progresses, it’s crucial to monitor your pet’s well-being during cold weather. Watch for signs that your pet may be too cold, including: shaking or shivering, changes in behaviour, lifting paws off the ground, and signs of hypothermia (weakness, lethargy, muscle stiffness).
It’s important to pay attention to these warning signs, but you shouldn’t wait to see the first signs of discomfort to find warm shelter.
Remember, if you think it’s too cold for you, then it’s too cold for your dog.
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