Frequently Asked Questions

 

Got a question for our Animal Experts?

Email us at: info@hbspca.com

 

About the Shelter

 

Pet Health

 

Cat Behaviour & Training

 

Dog Behaviour & Training

 

About the Shelter

The HBSPCA does take in surrenders of owned animals which are adoptable, when space is available in the shelter. An appointment must be arranged for mandatory medical and behavioral assessments to be completed. There is a fee to surrender an animal to the HBSPCA depending the type of animal and its history. Please be advised that you may be placed on a waiting list if space is not available at that time.
 
If you have lost your pet, the following steps may help bring you back together:
  • First things first. Contact your city’s Animal Control department. In the Hamilton area, call 905-574-3433 and in Burlington, call 905-335-3030. In Hamilton, dogs and cats will stay at Animal Services for 72 hours with the hope that someone will come and claim them. Following the 72 hour period, adoptable animals become the property of the HBSPCA, medically treated and made available to the public for adoption.
  • Search your neighborhood. Ask your neighbours and their children (the neighbourhood kids often know the most about what’s happening), mail carriers, joggers, garbage collectors, etc. to watch out for your pet.
  • Visit animal shelters and the pound. Go in person, rather than phoning. Visit the shelters every 24 hours. If you don’t have a shelter or pound in your area, phone the local police detachment.
  • Try the power of scent. Place a worn piece of clothing or a blanket on your door. Animals have a keen sense of smell and familiar smells may help bring them home. For indoor cats, place their litter box outside.
  • Post eye-catching posters in the neighbourhood. Describe your pet in detail and include a picture, the date and location of where your pet was lost and a phone number where you can be reached. Be sure to mention any unique markings and the colour of your pet’s collar. Consider offering a nominal reward. Withhold one of your pet’s unique characteristics so you can verify the honesty of a caller who is claiming to have found your pet.
  • Place an ad in your local newspaper.
  • Try the internet. PetLynx and Kijiji are valuable resources where you can post for lost or found animals and search the listings to see if your missing pet is among them. Petlynx: www.petlynx.com, Kijiji: www.kijiji.ca. Before you post on either of these websites, please contact your local animal control to ensure your pet isn’t there already.
  • Check local animal hospitals and local vet clinics.
  • Continue your search even if you feel there is little hope. Some animals turn up after having been lost for months.
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The first think you should do is take your dog to the vet for a check up to make they’re still healthy after a long adventure on their own. Consider having the vet implant a microchip in your animal which will help identify them if they’re lost again. Make sure you have proper identification on your animals. Notify your local animal shelters and animal control that your pet has been located and take down your posters in the community. Keep your dog on a leash at all times when out in the community and consider keeping your cat indoors.
 
Your cat or dog should always have external identification. Microchips and tattoos are also great forms of identification but they don’t replace external identification. Keep a detailed description of your pet on hand, as well as current colour photographs of the animal and any identifying characteristics (i.e. unusual markings). Finally, ensure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations, which will help keep your pet healthy should they go missing.
 
The HBSPCA legally cannot accept stray animals. Please contact the City of Hamilton Animal Services and/or your local municipality’s animal services.
 
The HBSPCA does not euthanize animals for space. All adoptable animals are available until they are adopted. There is no time limit. The HBSPCA does however euthanize animals that do pose a severe risk to humans or other animals. The HBSPCA will also euthanize animal with an untreatable disease or when it is in the best interest of the animal to be humanly euthanized to alleviate distress and suffering.
 
Cats and dogs are placed on the HBSPCA website and removed from the website automatically when the animal becomes available or is adopted. We have several bunnies and other small animals available for adoption also, though these are currently not visible on the website due to a technical issue. For more information about the small animals we have available, please contact our Adoption Centre at 905-574-7722, ext. 305.
 
We help animals that have become homeless for any number of reasons. Some animals are surrendered to us by their owners when they are no longer able to care for their pet. We also accept animals from City of Hamilton Animal Services when they have completed their 72-hour stray period and provided that they are suitable for adoption based on our medical and behavioural tests. From time to time, we also assist other local shelters by taking their animals when space or other circumstances arise.
 
Unfortunately, no.  We work very hard to find loving homes for all of our animals but we cannot guarantee that your animal won’t develop serious behavior or medical issues after being surrendered. It is extremely important that you fully disclose any and all information about your animal’s health, behavior and past. This will allow us to place the animals in a suitable home. We also work very hard with other shelters to place pets with difficult issues before making any decisions regarding euthanasia. Provided the animal does not pose any severe medical or behavioral issues where humans or other animals are at risk, the animal will remain at the HBSPCA until it is adopted.
 
At this time, the HBSPCA Companion Animal Hospital is not open to the public, except for our Community Assistance Spay/Neuter Clinic. For more information and our application, please click here: http://www.hbspca.com/spay-neuter-program.
 

Pet Health

Animal overpopulation is a serious problem in Hamilton, like many other cities around the world. Spaying or neutering your pet is an important and responsible means of helping to control the pet population. Spaying/neutering also decreases the risk of certain cancers, helping keep your companion happy and healthy.
 
At the HBSPCA, we offer a Community Assistance Spay/Neuter program for Hamilton and Burlington residents that meet our criteria. For more information and our application, please click here: http://www.hbspca.com/spay-neuter-program.
 
Bordetella is commonly known as “kennel cough.” Infected dogs will develop a dry, coarse cough 3-7 days after being exposed to the virus. The dog will sounds as if he needs to clear his throat.  The cough can be triggered by exercise or activity, as well as when the dog is calm and resting.  Kennel cough normally lasts between 7-21 days. Your dog’s appetite, energy level and overall health should not be affected. Most dogs do not require medical treatment for kennel cough and will overcome the infection on their own. If your dog appears lethargic, refuses to eat or shows symptoms in addition to those above, please contact your veterinarian. Never give your dog medication without your vet’s approval.
 
Kennel cough is transmitted through airborne droplets and is easily spread from dog to dog. It is commonly seen after your dog visits a boarding kennel, grooming facility or the dog park. Anywhere were multiple dogs have been, is a potential risk for picking up kennel cough.
 
You can ask your vet to administer the bordetella vaccine to help protect your dog against kennel cough. This vaccine is not normally included in annual vaccine packages so you will have to ask for it specifically. The vaccine is normal administered under the dog’s skin or in the dog’s nose. Contact your vet to find out more about this vaccine.
 
Heartworm occurs when a mosquito infected with heartworm larva bites a dog. Heartworms are large roundworms which reside in the right side of the heart and the blood vessels that supply the lungs. The worms survive on nutrients from the dog's bloodstream.  The disease causes obstruction of blood flow, as well as damage to the heart, lungs and liver. Eventually, fluid will build up in the lungs and restrict the dog's breathing. When damage to the internal organs is severe enough, death may be the result. It is important to have you dog tested at your veterinarian yearly to ensure they do not have heartworm.
 
Keeping your dog on a monthly heartworm preventative dispensed by your veterinarian is a great way to help ensure your pet does not become infected with heartworm.
 
URV is a “cat cold” caused by one of three different types of viruses(Rhinotrachetis, Calici virus, Chlamydia) Recovery can take anywhere from 7-21 days. The majority of cats experience mild symptoms which include sneezing, drooling, nasal discharge, eye discharge, and decreased appetite. Most cats will recover without the need to medication from the Veterinarian. If you notice thick nasal discharge, lethargy, lack of appetite, dehydration, oral ulcerations or fever contact your Veterinarian to seek medical attention. Cats are not humans and cannot be given medication for colds/flu. Medication must come from your veterinarian or the result could be fatal.

Cat Behaviour & Training

On a sunny, warm day, it seems like a great idea to let your cat outside to play. But actually, there are many dangers outside for cats that could be life-threatening, like cars, coyotes and even other cats. In reality, cats don’t need to go outside and are perfectly happy staying indoors.
 
If you must take your cat outside, your cat can be trained to walk on a harness with you. If you decide attach your cat to a tie out outside, make sure you’re supervising your cat at all time as they will otherwise be defenseless against attacks.
 
Your cat’s safety should be priority number 1 in the car. Cats should always be in a carrier while travelling in the car. Cat behavior can change dramatically when they are afraid or put in new situations, causing them to bite, scratch or flee. A carrier will make the cat feel more comfortable in this new situation. Having the cat in the carrier also helps keep you safe and keep your attention on the road. Should you get in an accident, the carrier will also protect your cat from becoming airborn.
 
Most people chose to put the litter box in a place that is out of the way, usually in the basement, near an appliance and on a cold stone floor. This location could be unappealing for several reasons:
  • The cat doesn’t like the cold floor
  • Sounds from the nearby appliance startle the cat
  • Climbing up or down the stairs may be too strenuous, especially for kittens or senior cats
     

Any of the above reasons could cause your cat to do its business in places other than where you intended her to go. You need to find a place for the litter box that is convenient for both you and the cat.
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This is mostly up to your cat but in general, cats tend to prefer fine grain litter such as a clumping litter or high quality clay litter. Many cats are put off by litter with a fragrance. It is not recommended to have air freshner close to the litter box, as your cat may find the smell unappealing, causing her to find another spot to do its business.
 
To help absorb ordor, try sprinkling a thin layer of baking soda in the bottom of the box before putting in the litter. This won’t offend your kitty but will get prevent nasty odors.
 
Once you find the litter that works for your cat, avoid switching brands.
 
Try mixing some soil into your litter box. Gradually lessen the amount of soil used until it’s all litter. Soil by itself isn’t a good substitute for litter because it’s messy and not absorbent.
 
It’s recommended that you have at least 1 litter box in your house for every cat you have. So if you have 3 cats, you should have 3 litter boxes. It is also recommended that you have at least 1 litter box on each level of your house. This will prevent line-ups at the litter box. Some cats may refuse to use a litter box that another cat has already used. It is very important to keep the litter boxes clean when you have multiple cats.
 
Some people may have a preference one way or the other, but it is important to consider what your cat likes best. A covered litter box needs to be cleaned more frequently as it will easily trap odors. A covered box may also be too small for your cat to turn around, dig and get into position. If the box has a door this may be scary to some cats or difficult for them to figure out.
 
Your cat’s litter box should be scooped daily. How often you need to clean out the litter box depends on the type of litter box you use and how many cats you have. Provided you scoop daily, twice per week may be enough with clay litter. With scoopable litter you may be able to go 2-3 weeks before changing the litter. If you notice an odor or that the litter is wet, you may need to change it more frequently. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners when cleaning as it may cause your cat to avoid using the litter box. Cats have a much stronger sense of smell than humans. Washing with soap and water is usually sufficient. Bleach can be used but be sure to rinse thoroughly.
 
Having litter liners in your cat’s litter box makes cleaning a lot easier. Your cat will decide whether or not she likes them and if she doesn’t, she will probably find another place to do her business.
 
If your cat is having accidents in the house, it’s recommended that you pay a visit to your veterinarian. It may be a medical issue, but if not, it’s most likely a behavior issue.
 
Experimentation will most likely help you figure out what your cat likes best. Also consider where your box is located: is there a scary noise nearby (cats have more sensitive hearing than humans so the noise may not seem loud or scary to you but it may have spooked your cat), is it in a spot that the cat frequents anyway, is it on a hard surface or soft?
 
A spayed or neutered cat will also help with this issue, especially if your cat is spraying. Spaying and neutering also has many health benefits for cats and will help your cat become more balanced and calm.
 
You may notice that your cat or kitten likes to play a bit rough at times. This may be fun for you at first, but their play can hurt their pet parents! With cats, anything that can be chased, batted or bitten is fair game – including your ankles!
 
Having consistent play times using toys every day can help with this issue. This will each your cat that they don’t have to initiate play time and they will figure out what are toys and what are not.
 
Withdrawing your attention can also help and they will quickly learn that rough play isn’t acceptable. Punishment won’t work and may actually make the situation worse. Simply leave the room without saying anything. It must be you that leaves. Don’t pick up the cat or talk to her. Picking up the cat in this situation would actually be a reward because you’re giving her attention. Touching or pushing the cat away may actually escalate the situation. Scruffing (picking up the cat by the scruff of its neck) or yelling can quickly cause the play into real aggression.
 
If you don’t want your cat to play with your ankles, fingers or pant legs, you have to be consistent. It will confuse your cat if sometimes these items are play things and then other times they’re not. And remember, everyone in your house must be consistent in order for this to be effective.
 
Introducing a second cat into your home takes time and they will likely not be friends right away. It can take weeks or even months for cats to begin to tolerate each other, let alone become friends. By setting your cats up for success, you can shorten this adjustment time and create a harmonious multi-cat home.
 
When you bring your new cat home, place her in a separate room with a door. This will help the cats start out slow and investigate each other’s smells from under the door. Leave the cat carrier that you brought the second cat home In out for your first cat to sniff. Switch items used by the cats (blankets, toys, etc.). After a few days, confine your first cat to a room and let the new cat out to explore the house. For the first few days, don’t let the cats interact face-to-face. This will help prevent a fight.
 
After a few days, allow the cats to meet face-to-face. Do this in a large, open area where the cats will have lots of room, like your living room. Don’t force the cats to interact. If they ignore each other, this is a good thing. Hissing, batting and growling at each other is normal. Tail flicks and ears laid back are indications that a fight may be about to break out. Never break up a fight with your hands or legs as you’re sure to be bitten or scratched. Make a loud noise or toss something near them to distract them. A spray bottle filled with water will also work.
 
Introducing a second cat to your home takes time and a few fights along the way is normal. Patience is the key!
 
Introducing your cat to children is best done slowly and under constant supervision. Have the child sit on the ground and allow the cat to sniff him before the child pets the cat. Moving too quickly will spook the cat so it important to have a calm and quiet atmosphere while making this introduction. Once the cat appears comfortable and ready for attention, allow the child to gently pet the cat. Make sure the child doesn’t pull on the cat’s ears or tail or attempt to pick the cat up. These initial interactions should always happen on the ground. Most bites and scratches will happen when the child tries to pick up the cat or carry her around. Once the two are comfortable around each other, you can teach the child how to pick up the cat properly and again, always under adult supervision. Remember, start out slow and have patience and you’ll create a life-long friendship!
 

Not only is this an annoying habit but it can also pose a real risk to your cat’s safety. Tinsel, ornament hooks, lights, wires and even the tree itself are irresistible to some cats but can be dangerous. Invest in a couple of canisters of compressed air and squirt the cat when it gets too close. This will keep the cat away from these risky areas. Don’t overuse this method in other areas of the house however as your cat may become scared of many areas of the house.
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Dog Behaviour & Training


I just adopted an adult dog. He’s not housetrained. How can I prevent accidents in the house?
Most adult dogs are as easy as puppies to housetrain and sometimes even easier and faster! They respond to the same methods as puppies. Crate training is a great tool and constant supervision is necessary. When you’re out of the room, the dog should be in his crate. This eliminates the opportunity for them to sneak off to another room to do their business while you’re not looking. If you’re doing chores around the house, tie a leash around your waist and attach your dog. This will occupy his mind and help teach him how to walk properly on a leash!

Anytime you let your dog out of his crate, you should immediately take him outside to do his business. It’s important to go outside with your dog and make sure he does his business, or else he may do it as soon as you bring him back in. When your dog does his business where he’s supposed to, shower him with praise. Throw a big party! Give him his favourite treat! A belly scratch! And definitely a “Good boy!” Praise and positive reinforcement are extremely effective tools in dog training.

If your dog does not do his business outside, he should go straight back into his crate. Take him outside again in 10 minutes and repeat this process until he goes to the bathroom. It may seem unfair or cruel, but your dog needs this consistency to learn.

If you catch your dog going to the washroom inside, yelling or rubbing their nose in it will not help. Simply interrupt them and take them right outside. If you didn’t catch them, again yelling or rubbing their nose in it won’t help. He will not understand why you’re angry with him. But if you’re keeping him in his crate or under your supervision during this training period, accidents should be minimal.

No matter what his age, any dog can be housebroken, even though some may take longer and more effort than others. Consistency is the key to success!
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The first 7-14 days in a new place can be scary for a dog. It is an important time however to establish the rules of the house, like is the dog allowed on the furniture and what is the dog’s schedule. Consistency is need from every member of the household. It’s unfair and uneffective to the dog to be allowed to do something with one person that he’s not allowed to do with everyone else. Structure and boundaries are keys to success.
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Both cats and dogs have a normal body temperature of 101-102 degrees F and they can become overheated very quickly. Overheating can quickly cause brain damage or death. Like children, pets can only stand the heat for a very short period of time. Pets should never be left in hot cars or outside for long periods of time. Even with the window open, cars can become dangerously hot very quickly. Cats and dogs pant to cool down their bodies, instead of sweating like humans. Breathing in hot or warm air will not cool down their bodies.
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When dogs are young, it’s important to socialize them whenever you have the opportunity. It helps to use food and treats during this process. Carry treats with you wherever you go so the people you come in contact with can give them to your dog. Introduce your dog to a diverse array of people: tall, short, big, small, different races, men, women, children, wearing hats, with a cane, etc. Do not force your pup to become friends with people they’re scared of. If your dog is wiggly and excited, have the person greet them. If he is nervous or scared, have them toss the treat on the ground and keep walking. The more you try to force them to be comfortable, the more they will fear. Ignoring their fear is the best strategy. Coddling the behavior will only make it worse and encourage the fear. Make sure not to reward your dog for “spook barking” at someone or something. Try to get treats in before this happens or be prepared next time to catch him before he has the chance to start barking. If you reward after the barking, you are only rewarding the unwanted behavior.
 
This method will work for puppies, as well as adult dogs. It’s important that you don’t move too fast or expect too much too soon. Patience is the key!
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Dogs should always be confined to crate or restrained by a seatbelt while in the car. If they are not restrained, dogs can easily become a distraction for the driver. In the event of an accident, your dog can become airborne which could cause serious injuries or death to you or your pet.
 
Human seatbelts will not work for dogs. Pet stores offer special seat belts specifically for dogs that will work with your car’s belts.
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Parties can obviously be over-stimulating and overwhelming for dogs with so many new people around and not to mention, the food. Unless you spend a lot of time training for this type of situation, it is unfair to expect your dog to be calm and well behaved.
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