The Hamilton/Burlington SPCA and Hill’s Pet Nutrition Hosted a Surprise FREE Adoption Day on December 6th

Hamilton, ON — The Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (HBSPCA) partnered with Hill's Pet Nutrition (Hill’s), a global leader in science-led nutrition, to host a surprise free adoption event on December 6. The celebration was part of Hill’s Sweet 16 Million Adoptions campaign, marking an extraordinary milestone: 16 million pet adoptions supported through the Hill’s Food, Shelter & Love program since its launch in 2002.

The Hill’s Food, Shelter & Love program provides discounted, science-led nutrition to more than 1,000 animal shelters across North America every day, including the dogs and cats at the HBSPCA. As a proud partner of the program, the HBSPCA was honoured to join select shelters across Canada in celebrating this achievement and helping deserving animals in Hamilton, Burlington, and surrounding communities find loving homes for the holidays.

As part of the overall campaign, Hill’s contributed up to $200,000 to offset adoption fees at participating Food, Shelter & Love partner shelters across Canada and the United States.

Thanks to Hill’s support, the HBSPCA surprised adopters on Saturday, December 6 with FREE adoptions. In total, 8 families were surprised on Saturday thanks to Hill’s! Each adopter also received a New Pet Parent Kit from Hill’s, including a starter bag of Hill’s Science Diet, a coupon, and helpful post-adoption tips to ensure a smooth transition home.

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“Partnerships like ours with Hill’s Pet Nutrition strengthen our ability to move more animals from our shelter into loving homes,” said John Gerrard, CEO and President of the HBSPCA. “Families were already here to adopt, but Hill’s added an incredible layer of support that elevated the whole experience. Together, we’re advancing adoption in our community and ensuring pets have the best start possible.”

While the surprise free adoption day has come to an end and regular adoption fees have resumed, the HBSPCA continues its mission to care for animals in need and connect them with loving families. Celebrations like this highlight the power of partnership and community support—and the profound difference it makes for vulnerable animals seeking a second chance.

Those considering adding a pet to their family are encouraged to explore the many dogs, cats, and small animals still waiting for homes.

To meet your next family member, visit hbspca.com to view all adoptable animals.

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About the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA

The Hamilton/Burlington SPCA is always Pet First. Since 1887, we have advanced the humane treatment of animals through innovative education, services, and partnerships. Our programs support over one million animal interactions annually, providing vital resources that ensure the well-being of animals and the families who care for them. We take care of animals because they take care of us.