From Kennels to Classroom: HBSPCA Volunteer Earns Early Acceptance to Vet School

Cameron started at the HBSPCA as a co-op volunteer while he was still in high school, drawn there by a lifelong love of animals. His dedication didn't go unnoticed. He soon became a paid summer student through Canada Summer Jobs, and from there was hired as a part-time Animal Care Attendant, the role he proudly holds today. What began as a last-minute co-opplacement has grown into a genuine calling.

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For Cameron, this has never just been a job.

"I love animals. Since I was little, I absolutely loved animals," he says. Ask him the most meaningful lesson he's learned, and the answer is patience: "A lot of [the dogs] come here scared and nervous. The most important thing is to take your time with them. Once you get to know a dog, it can make such a difference."

Watching him put that into practice every day is a reminder of exactly why this work matters.

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Now he's taking his next big step, earning early acceptance into the University of Guelph's Animal Science program, his number-one choice, and home to the Ontario Veterinary College.

"I love animals, and then I get to actually work with them," he says. "It's my passion. I'm actually so excited to learn about them more."

And his dream goal?

Returning one day as a vet at the HBSPCA.

"My journey from being just a co-op volunteer to working here, that's seriously my dream," he says. "If I got to work as a vet back here, it's surreal."

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His advice for anyone chasing a similar path is as heartfelt as he is:

"Don't be afraid. Take that step. You're going to kick yourself for the rest of your life if you don't chase what you want."

Helping foster talent like Cameron's is one of the HBSPCA's greatest joys, and the team takes every chance it can to support future vets. Thank you, Cameron, for everything you do, and good luck at school. The HBSPCA can't wait to see where you go.

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Help support the next Cameron. Every donation to the HBSPCA helps care for animals in need and create opportunities for young people chasing their dreams in animal welfare. Donate today and be part of someone's journey to becoming a future vet.