Monthly Volunteer Profile: Jaelyn Friesen

For Jaelyn Friesen, a life-long love of animals has evolved into a volunteer role at the Winnipeg Humane Society. A Grade 12 student enrolled in carpentry at Murdoch MacKay Collegiate in Winnipeg, Jaelyn grew up with pet gerbils. “I really liked having the gerbils,” she said, smiling. “They were nice with me and they enjoyed cuddling. They’re very affectionate. One would escape from its enclosure and it would come and find us.” At the age of 11, she got her first dog. Now she and her family have two small dogs – a Poodle and a Shih Tzu. On weekends … Continued

Welfare Concerns with Professional Bull Riding Events

On Friday, May 26, 2023, the Red River Exhibition Association is hosting a Professional Bull Riding Event (PBR). Bull riding events concern the Winnipeg Humane Society as they violate the 5 Freedoms necessary for animal welfare: Freedom from hunger and thirst by access to fresh water and appropriate diet Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area Freedom from pain, injury, or disease by preventing or rapidly treating problems Freedom to express natural behaviour by providing sufficient space, facilities and company Freedom from fear and distress by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid … Continued

Happy Earth Day 2023!

Happy Earth Day, everyone! Did you know the Canadian government reports that more than 40% of Canadians already add more plant-based foods into their diets? This is a win for Mother Earth! But we’ve still got a long way to go when considering how industrial animal agriculture can impact our planet. Global animal agricultural practices emit up to 90 million tonnes of C02 into the atmosphere annually through the unsustainable burning of fossil fuels. When we look at all global lands considered suitable for agricultural use, almost 80% of this land is used for raising livestock and growing crops to … Continued

Kris Gladwell, CEO of Misericordia Health Foundation, Robert B. One Great Lottery Winner and Jessica Miller, CEO of Winnipeg Humane Society

One Great Lottery for All

Happy Spring! I sincerely hope the snow is still melting by the time you receive this note. We are excited to announce the return of One Great Lottery after an exciting first year with our partner Misericordia Health Centre Foundation (MHCF). I am happy to tell you we received some great feedback from our first year in the lottery realm and have listened to what you’ve said. Thanks to your feedback we have a new line-up of Early Bird Prizes that we hope you’ll love. These are trying times for many Manitobans; we have taken that into consideration and have … Continued

2023 Summer Kid Camps Bigger Than Ever!

As we say goodbye to March, we also wrap up our Spring Break Kids Camp, which was a huge hit this year. We welcomed 50 campers for the week-long event! At this year’s Spring Break Kid Camps, campers enjoyed special guest presentations from Wildlife Haven, Manitoba Ferret Association, Little Red Barn, and Border Security. The wonderful group of young humane heroes also learned about different animal welfare topics, responsible pet ownership, and what the different departments here at the Winnipeg Humane Society do. If you missed signing your child up for Spring Break Kid Camps, no need to worry! Our … Continued

Don’t Hop To Conclusions About Me

Debunking Common Misconceptions About Rabbits There really is nothing cuter than a baby rabbit. Understandably, these tiny, fluffy little creatures have grown in popularity in the pet trade in recent years.  But did you know that under all that charm is a sentient, inquisitive animal with very complex needs? In today’s blog post we are debunking some common misconceptions about rabbits and their care: Rabbits are not gifts, or starter pets. Before adding as your newest family member, you must research to evaluate if a rabbit is the right fit for your home. Rabbits can live up to 10 years, … Continued

March 2023 Monthly Volunteer Profile: Anita Jacobson

People who volunteer with the Winnipeg Humane Society (WHS) share a passion for furry or feathered friends. We all demonstrate this passion and dedication in different ways, and in eight years Foster Parent Anita Jacobson and her husband Tim have shown this repeatedly by opening their doors and sharing their home with more than 160 cats. Anita said Tim is largely responsible for what has become a major part of their lives. “I blame my husband for getting us into this,” she laughed. “We’re a partnership. He’s totally awesome and a real keeper. Eight years ago, Tim received a hip … Continued

World Wildlife Day 2023: Ways to Help

Humans are fortunate to share planet Earth with incredible wildlife, however human activity increasingly threatens the survival of the other species we share our home with. Pollution, unsustainable fishing practices, deforestation for farmland and urban development has rapidly increased the rate of species extinction, with an average decline of 69% in species populations since 1970 (WWF’s Living Planet Report 2022) Today is World Wildlife Day and it serves a great reminder that we all have a shared responsibility to co-exist with and ensure the welfare of wild animals. Here are some ways we, as individuals can help: Use Less Plastic … Continued

Make Twice the Difference with March Match!

We are excited to introduce you to March Match presented by Vickar Automotive Group! You may recall our previous event and campaign for 1001 Donations. We’ve changed the name to better represent exactly what it is…a campaign throughout March where your generous gift will be matched! Any amount you donate this month will be MATCHED up to $70,000 by four generous donors. The deadline is March 31st, so make sure you double your impact before it’s too late. This month, we will also be sharing some incredible animal stories (like Pegasus’) with you that highlight how YOUR dollars create second chances … Continued

February 2023 Monthly Volunteer Profile: Shona Strome

Cat Adoption Assistant Shona Strome calls her two hours of volunteer work in Kitty Kat Way ‘refreshing’ and looks forward to it every week. “I always feel good after my shift, I find,” she explained. “I go home after my shift and I feel energized.” A relative newcomer to the Winnipeg Humane Society’s volunteer ranks, Shona is obviously a quick learner. She’s been volunteering at the WHS for six months but she’s already mentored four or five new volunteers. “It’s good to have new people coming on and I enjoy showing them the ropes,” she said. Shona retired from the … Continued