TORONTO, ON. – June 25, 2024 – Toronto Humane Society joins in celebrating Pride and the vibrant 2SLGBTQIA+ community, while emphasizing the importance of pet safety during festivities.

While Pride events are joyous occasions, some pets can be overwhelmed by the crowds, loud noises, and summer heat, which may lead to fear, anxiety, and stress.

Dr. Karen Ward, Chief Veterinary Officer at Toronto Humane Society, advises, “Pets are sensitive to their surroundings, and the excitement of Pride can be too much for some of them. Think about your pet’s personality, many pets will prefer to be at home in a familiar and quiet environment. For those pets, ensure their comfort and well-being by keeping them in a secure and calm place away from the celebrations.”

With recent heatwaves affecting the region, Toronto Humane Society also reminds pet parents of the importance of keeping pets cool and hydrated to prevent heatstroke. Signs of heatstroke in pets include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, and vomiting. If heatstroke is suspected, immediate veterinary care is essential.

For those bringing pets to Pride, Toronto Humane Society will operate a booth at the Pride Toronto Street Fair on Church Street (Between Wood St. and Carlton St.). The booth will provide water for dogs to stay hydrated during the festivities. Operating hours are as follows:

• Friday, June 28: 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Saturday, June 29: 1:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Sunday, June 30: 1:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

If you decide to bring your pet to Pride, here are some additional pet safety tips:

1. Pet-Focused Events: Some pride events may be more comfortable for your pet to attend over others.
2. Hydration: Ensure your pet has access to fresh water at all times. Consider bringing a portable water bowl and refill it frequently – or visit Toronto Humane Society’s booth!
3. Shade and Rest: Find shaded areas where your pet can rest away from direct sunlight and crowds. Bring a portable mat or blanket for them to lie on. Pavement can be hot on their paws, so it is best to stick to grassy areas as much as possible on hot days.
4. Comfortable Attire: Avoid dressing your pet in costumes or accessories that could cause overheating or discomfort in the summer heat.
5. Identification: Make sure your pet wears a secure collar with an ID tag that includes your contact information. Consider having them microchipped as an extra precaution.
6. Crowd Management: Keep your pet close on a leash and be mindful of their comfort level around large crowds and loud noises. Monitor their body language for signs of stress or anxiety.
7. Temperature Check: Regularly check your pet for signs of overheating, such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. If they show signs of distress, find a quiet area and provide water immediately.
8. Escape Plan: Familiarize yourself with the event layout and identify quiet exit routes in case your pet becomes overwhelmed and needs to leave quickly.

Toronto Humane Society encourages everyone to enjoy Pride responsibly and to prioritize the safety and well-being of their pets throughout the celebrations.

Additionally, pet parents can celebrate Pride with their pets in the comfort of their homes by purchasing a Pride pet bandana, available while quantities last at Toronto Humane Society’s location at 11 River St, Toronto, ON.

About Toronto Humane Society
Toronto Humane Society’s mission is to improve the lives of animals. The organization excels in all ways an animal shelter should, with industry-leading shelter care, veterinary services, animal training and behaviour consultations. Toronto Humane Society believes in the importance of the human-animal bond, finds new homes for thousands of animals and helps keep families together.

Toronto Humane Society is more than an animal shelter. They are an educational resource and support system, a leading voice in animal welfare and accessible care. The organization is also a centre of excellence, a space where best practices and boundary-pushing knowledge meet with unyielding optimism and a love for animals to create something special. Toronto Humane Society is like no other. For more information, visit www.torontohumanesociety.com.

For more information, or to arrange an interview please contact Lucas Solowey at communications@torontohumanesociety.com or call 416-392-2273 ext. 2196