139 Years of Compassion: The Story of the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA

Some organizations grow because they exist.

Others grow because they are needed.

For 139 years, the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA has been guided by compassion, community support, and an unwavering commitment to animals in need. That story began in 1887, when a small group of Hamiltonians came together around a simple belief: animals deserved kindness, protection, and a voice.

Today, the HBSPCA supports thousands of animals and families each year through adoption services, veterinary care, humane education, outreach programs, and community support. Every program offered today exists because generations before us believed animals deserved better—and chose to act on that belief.

Where It All Began

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In the spring of 1887, local citizens held a meeting, united by a conviction that Hamilton needed a dedicated advocate for animals. That conviction led to the founding of the Hamilton SPCA, which later became the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA.

At the time, horses powered daily life—pulling streetcars, delivery wagons, and mail routes. Early efforts by the Hamilton SPCA focused on easing the burden placed on these working animals, both by promoting humane treatment, and by undertaking practical projects such as raising funds and then installing water troughs in the markets and squares.

The organization also challenged practices such as cockfighting and dogfighting, while recognizing something revolutionary for the time: that building a kinder future began with educating the public about caring for animals.

That growing public trust—combined with persistent advocacy from the Hamilton SPCA and sister organizations across Ontario—helped shape Ontario’s first animal welfare law in 1919, laying a foundation that continues to inform animal welfare legislation today.

Education, Advocacy, and a Vision for the Future

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By the 1920s, the Society understood that saving animals meant shaping hearts and minds from at an early age. Through the passionate leadership of the Ladies Auxiliary, the Junior Humane Society was launched in schools—eventually reaching more than 9,000 children and becoming the first program of its kind in Ontario.

Students signed pledges of kindness. Humane education materials reached classrooms across the province. Long before animal welfare education was common, the Hamilton SPCA was planting seeds that would grow for generations.

The organization also looked beyond local concerns, contributing to broader conversations on humane progress through participation in international conferences, including those hosted by the RSPCA in London, England.

Building a Home for Animals

After the Second World War, momentum shifted from advocacy alone to direct, hands‑on care. Land was secured on Parkdale Avenue, and in 1950, the Society opened its first purpose‑built animal shelter, which was quickly filled.  As community need grew, so did the organization’s response. Under contract with the city of Hamilton, by the late 1960s, the SPCA was handling more than 8,000 animal pickups annually, alongside cruelty investigations and enforcement work.

Growth, Community, and Tradition

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The 1970s and 1980s were a period of extraordinary growth and public recognition. The opening of the Dr. Jean Rumney Memorial Wing honoured a pioneering veterinarian and cherished leader whose dedication continues to inspire animal welfare work today.

In 1987, the Society celebrated its centennial with a citywide celebration—followed soon after by the first Wiggle Waggle Walkathon in 1989. What began as a fundraiser quickly became a beloved community tradition, uniting people of all ages in joyful support of animals.

By this time, the SPCA was no longer just an organization—it was woven into the fabric of the community.

A New Era of Care and Outreach

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By the 1990s, it was clear the Parkdale facility could no longer support the animal population of a growing region.  With broad community backing—including support from Hamilton football legend Bernie Faloney—the HBSPCA launched an ambitious capital campaign to build for the future.

In 1996, the Dartnall Road facility opened. Officially inaugurated by Governor General Roméo LeBlanc, it was widely regarded as one of the finest animal welfare facilities in North America—and a powerful symbol of what community investment could achieve.

The Decades that Followed Saw Continued Innovation:

• The Companion Animal Hospital was established, so that animals could receive medical treatment on site, provided by dedicated HBSPCA veterinarian
• Affordable spay/neuter programs were made available, with accompanying education about the health benefits of population contro
• Expanded humane support for community cats was introduced

In In 2012, the HBSPCA celebrated its 125th anniversary and deepened partnerships with McMaster University, the Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph and other educational institutions, reinforcing its growing role as both service provider and thought leader.

By the early 21^st century, the HBSPCA no longer investigated or prosecuted cases of animal cruelty, which had become a municipal responsibility. However, a close cooperation with the City of Hamilton continues to exist and the HBSPCA often takes into its care animals which have been seized or surrendered.

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Adapting When Animals Needed Us Most

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During the COVID‑19 pandemic in the early 2020s, the HBSPCA once again demonstrated resilience—introducing appointment‑based adoptions, virtual interviews, and telemedicine support while continuing essential animal care.

In the years since, the organization has leaned even further into community‑centred support. Expanded Pet Wellness Clinics at locations throughout the region, and the Pet Pantry food distribution program ensure families can keep and care for the pets they love, even in times of hardship.

Although the beloved Wiggle Waggle Walkathon concluded in 2022 after more than three decades, its joyful spirit lives on through new events, partnerships, and programs, including summer camps, birthday parties, tours and classes.

A Legacy of Firsts

Throughout its history, the HBSPCA has often led the way, including:

• Helping shape Ontario’s first animal welfare laws
• Launching Ontario’s first Junior Humane Society for children
• Opening an independent shelter
• Building the Dartnall Road facility
• Expanding into community veterinary care and outreach
• Launching the Pet Pantry, now the largest pet food bank in Canada

Each milestone reflects a simple truth: when animal welfare evolves, we evolve with it.

Built by Community. Sustained by Generosity.

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The HBSPCA’s story has never belonged to one person. It has been written by volunteers, board members, donors, adopters, foster families, veterinarians, staff, and supporters—across generations.

From walking dogs and comforting kittens to funding lifesaving surgeries, opening their homes to pets, and championing bold new ideas, the community has always been the heart of our work.

Simply put, there is no HBSPCA history without the people who made it possible.

Looking Ahead

While we honour nearly a century and a half of impact, the HBSPCA’s story continues and expands. Every adoption, every volunteer shift, every donation, and every act of kindness becomes part of what comes next.

As we look to the future, our purpose remains unchanged:
To protect animals, support families, and build a more compassionate community for all.

Explore Our Full History

Discover photos, milestones, and defining moments on our History Page: https://www.hbspca.com/our-history