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A Touching Message From Our President & CEO

Written By:

John Gerrard, President & Chief Executive Officer

Posted On:

September 6, 2025

Two weeks ago, our beloved Peaches, a 15-year-old orange tabby, crossed the rainbow bridge. Peaches wasn’t just a cat; he was family. My partner lovingly raised him from bottle feeding, and I had the joy of meeting him five years ago. Watching him grow into the gentle soul he became filled our lives with warmth and companionship.

As the President and CEO of the Hamilton Burlington SPCA, my journey with pets has been both rewarding and heart-wrenching. I have been blessed with five dogs, including Boxers, who have each taught me invaluable lessons about love, loyalty, and the inevitable pain of saying goodbye. From Thunder, my first Boxer, to Freddie, my buddy of nine years, each farewell has left an indelible mark on my heart. Nothing prepares you for that first end-of-life goodbye, and each loss deepens your understanding of the profound bond we share with our animal companions.

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Recently, we noticed that Peaches wasn’t himself. His vibrant personality dimmed, and his body showed signs of change. As President and CEO, I reached out to my colleagues for guidance, highlighting the immense benefit of having experts close by.

In today’s world, where accessing veterinary care can sometimes be challenging, having knowledgeable support was invaluable. Thankfully, we were able to consult with our trusted veterinarian, who diagnosed Peaches with diabetes and other potential health issues.

Faced with the decision of whether to administer insulin injections to a 15-year-old cat, we grappled with what was best for Peaches’ comfort. Cats often dislike needles, and our priority was to ensure he lived his remaining days without unnecessary pain.

Despite our hopes, by Friday, it became clear that Peaches was suffering. His eyes no longer sparkled with joy, and his sounds reflected his discomfort. Making the decision to say goodbye was the hardest choice we’ve ever faced.

Our team at HBSPCA was incredible during this difficult time. They made space in their busy schedules to support us, embodying the very essence of our WHY. Driving the 35 minutes to HBSPCA was a quiet and sombre journey, but knowing Peaches would be cared for with the same love we gave him provided some comfort. Upon arrival, the team greeted us with soft music and gentle touches, creating a peaceful environment for our final moments together. K, J, and E were there every step of the way, offering compassion and understanding as we navigated our grief.

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This experience reminded me why I am so proud to lead the Hamilton Burlington SPCA. Our WHY is to support and comfort animals and their families through every stage of life. Whether it’s birth, surrender, end-of-life care, tragic incidents, or miraculous rescues, our team is dedicated to making a difference every day.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we kept our doors open for end-of-life services, helping families from all over Southern Ontario ensure their pets could pass away humanely and without pain.

Losing a pet is devastating. It’s not just the loss of an animal; it’s the loss of a family member, a best friend, a confidant. Our team understands this pain deeply because they see it every day. They offer more than just medical care; they provide emotional support and heartfelt compassion. Receiving hundreds of letters each year from community members thanking our team for their dedication and love for animals is a testament to the impact we have.

As I reflect on Peaches’ passing, I am reminded of the incredible work our team does and the profound difference we make in the lives of animals and their families. Our WHY drives us to offer comfort and support when it’s needed most, ensuring that every animal in our care receives the love and respect they deserve.

Thank you to our amazing team—K, J, E, and everyone at HBSPCA—for your unwavering dedication and heartfelt service. Your compassion inspires me every day and strengthens our mission to be a beacon of hope and support for our community. Together, we honour the memories of pets like Peaches and continue to provide a loving sanctuary for all animals in need.

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