Ottawa Humane Society plans subsidized vet clinic in Vanier
The animal shelter is retrofitting a former post office to offer preventive and urgent care for pets of low-income residents, aiming to reduce surrenders.
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The Ottawa Humane Society is launching a fundraising campaign to retrofit and operate a former post office on Durocher Avenue in Vanier as a subsidized veterinary clinic for low-income pet owners.
Of 6,166 pets the shelter cared for last year, 1,322 were surrendered by owners — and cost and housing concerns accounted for almost 40 per cent of those surrenders. The new clinic aims to keep animals with their families by offering spay-neuter services, wellness checkups, vaccinations, microchipping, and urgent care at reduced rates.
"What we have been seeing is animals coming to us when the owner is in such moral distress at the thought of having to surrender their pet," said Ottawa Humane Society president and CEO Sharon Miko. "They don't have another option. What we know, if that animal could stay with this family, it's the best possible option."
To qualify for reduced fees, clients must live in Ottawa and meet at least one eligibility requirement: enrollment in Ontario Disability Support Program, Ontario Works, or the Resettlement Assistance Program; receipt of the Guaranteed Income Supplement; or a notice of assessment showing income below $35,000 a year. A referral letter from a social worker or social service agency also qualifies.
The Humane Society bought the former post office last February for $3 million. Retrofitting will cost about $9.4 million, with half the 9,000-square-foot space dedicated to the veterinary clinic and the other half to a pet food bank and other services. The clinic is scheduled to open by the end of 2027.
The organization is also raising funds for behavioural supports and new dog parks at its headquarters on West Hunt Club Road as part of a $15 million campaign.