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About Us
Our History
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1887
Founding of the Hamilton SPCA
The first meetings were held that March, and Adam Brown became the founding president, serving for 35 years. This moment marked the beginning of organized animal welfare in the Hamilton region.
1919
Ontario passes the OSPCA Act
This was the province’s first animal welfare law, shaped in large part by lobbying efforts from Hamilton and other SPCAs. The legislation provided a legal foundation for protecting animals across Ontario.
1927
Hamilton SPCA Humane Education pamphlet distributed province-wide
The Ontario Minister of Education circulated the Hamilton SPCA’s pamphlet to schools across the province. This established Hamilton’s program as a model for humane education and children’s advocacy.
1948
First independent animal shelter opens
Built on Parkdale Avenue, it housed up to 200 animals and became a hub for animal care. This milestone transformed the HBSPCA from an advocacy group into a full-service sheltering organization. In 1968 a new $200,000 facility replaced the earlier building, significantly expanding space and services. It modernized the Society’s ability to provide medical care, housing, and adoptions.
1987
Centennial and expansion of services
The HBSPCA celebrated its 100th anniversary with a major community event, featuring cartoonist Ben Wicks as keynote speaker. That same year, the Society took on responsibility for animal control across a vast 700 km² service area.
1989
First Wiggle Waggle Walkathon held
This community fundraiser became a beloved annual tradition that ran for 33 years. It brought thousands of people and pets together in support of animal welfare.
1996
Dartnall Road shelter opens
The $5 million facility was considered one of the best in North America at the time, reflecting modern standards of animal care. Governor-General Roméo LeBlanc presided over its opening, underscoring its national significance.
2009
Companion Animal Hospital opens
This in-house clinic provided spay/neuter and medical care for shelter animals, while also supporting community programs. That same year, Ontario passed Bill 50, toughening animal protection laws with strong input from SPCAs.
2020
Adapting during the COVID-19 pandemic
The HBSPCA quickly transitioned to appointment-only adoptions with no-contact pickup and virtual interviews. Spay/neuter surgeries and the Trap-Neuter-Return program continued, ensuring core services carried on through the crisis.
2024
Pet Pantry launches
In its first year, the program distributed 70,000 meals to families in need, and it has since grown into the largest pet food bank in Canada. By helping pets stay with their families during financial hardship, the Pantry has become a cornerstone of HBSPCA’s community support.
Want to learn more?
This was just a high level recap. Visit our history page where we showcase in detail 100+ more key milestone of HBSPCA's history.
Coming Soon
Reflecting on our roots, and looking ahead to a Pet First Future, the Hamilton/Burlington Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (HBSPCA) has ambitious plans for a humane community.
We've undergone significant transformations to become Ontario's preferred animal shelter, and one of Canada's most recognized SPCA organizations. Driven by passionate volunteers, our organization has grown to serve 11,000+ animal each year.
