The Nova Scotia SPCA announced last month the merger of its branches (Antigonish, Hants, La Baie, Lunenburg, Queens, Cape Breton, Colchester, Kings, Pictou, Yarmouth and Provincial).This transformation allows the organization to be more strategic in the delivery of enhanced programs, gives increased ability to protect financial assets and provides better opportunity to grow provincial fundraising initiatives.
"The merger is a collaborative effort between all of the SPCA branches and the end result is a dissolution of individual branches currently registered under the Registry of Joint Stock Companies into branch divisions of the Nova Scotia SPCA under The Animal Protection Act," said Elizabeth Murphy, Nova Scotia SPCA CEO.
Showing posts with label Nova Scotia SPCA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nova Scotia SPCA. Show all posts
12 December 2014
20 December 2013
NS SPCA announce meeting with provincial government
The Nova Scotia SPCA announced yesterday it will be meeting with Minister Keith Colwell in early 2014 to discuss the current animal welfare legislation.
With this meeting, the NS SPCA plans to improve the Animal Protection Act, under which it is empowered to investigate complaints of animal cruelty.
"We laud Minister of Agriculture, Keith Colwell's decision to review the Animal Protection Act," said the NS SPCA in a news release. "As the largest animal welfare organization in Nova Scotia that accepts thousands of animals through it's branches every year, we look forward to building a collaborative working relationship with Minster Colwell and his department on any proposed changes to the legislation at our scheduled meeting for early in the new year. We are also hopeful that moving forward we will have the level of support required from government so that we can provide the appropriate level of protection to all animals in our province."
With this meeting, the NS SPCA plans to improve the Animal Protection Act, under which it is empowered to investigate complaints of animal cruelty.
"We laud Minister of Agriculture, Keith Colwell's decision to review the Animal Protection Act," said the NS SPCA in a news release. "As the largest animal welfare organization in Nova Scotia that accepts thousands of animals through it's branches every year, we look forward to building a collaborative working relationship with Minster Colwell and his department on any proposed changes to the legislation at our scheduled meeting for early in the new year. We are also hopeful that moving forward we will have the level of support required from government so that we can provide the appropriate level of protection to all animals in our province."
10 December 2013
Nova Scotia TNR documented through video
18 October 2013
Summit 2013 Poll 1 WINNERS!
The 2013 Summit Awards gala is underway. Winners of the first poll have been announced!
Community Compliance
Ontario SPCA with 50% of the votes
Distinguished Service Provider
Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society with 61% of the votes
Product or Service Innovation
Working on Our Future with 33% of the votes
Sheltering
Animal Welfare Agency of South Central Ontario with 54% of the votes
Stay tuned for Poll 2 winners!
27 September 2013
Which Product or Service Innovation will win the 2013 Summit
Four finalists vie for the Urban Animal Industry's highest award in the category of Product or Service Innovation:
- WOOF - Nova Scotia Department of Justice (Angela Poirier) is nominated for a program which pairs dogs and offenders for social and behavioral development that provides a mutual benefit.
- Champion of Pet Owner Happiness - Pets Plus Us, RSA (Randy Valpy) is nominated for a program that recasts the way pet insurers, veterinarians and pet owners work together to achieve affordable health care.
- Affinities Renewable - Nova Scotia SPCA (Kristin Williams) is nominated for a program that delivers renewable energy and as well as a sustainable source of funding for NSSPCA community services.
- Poooh Busters is nominated for a program that delivers a novel waste removal and responsible waste handling business.
The Summit for Product or Service Innovation recognizes an innovative product or service that improves the quality of life for people and pets in homes, in communities or industry sector(s).
The 2013 Summit for Product or Service Innovation will be presented during the Awards Gala on Friday, 18 October 2013. This event is open to the public.
The 2013 Summit for Product or Service Innovation will be presented during the Awards Gala on Friday, 18 October 2013. This event is open to the public.
12 September 2013
NS SPCA announces new CEO
The Provincial Board of the Nova Scotia SPCA announced earlier this week the arrival of new CEO Elizabeth Murphy.
Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience in the non-profit sector, most recently as the Director of Development with Easter Seals of Nova Scotia. She has also served as the Director of Development at the PEI Humane Society, Executive Director with Bulkley Valley HIV/AIDS Society and Revenue Development Director at the PEI Heart and Stroke Foundation.
"The Urban Animal Program enjoyed the leadership of the Nova Scotia SPCA for its subscribers throughout North America. On behalf of nearly 1,600 Urban Animal Directors, Advocates, Mentors, Alumni, Associates and Collaborators we extend a hearty welcome to Elizabeth Murphy the new CEO of this organization," said PetLynx Corporation president and CEO Larry Evans.
"We invite Elizabeth to continue the tradition of North America leadership which we enjoyed under former Chief Executive, Kristen Williams and we offer our support and our encouragement as she takes over the reins of Atlantic Canada’s largest Humane/Rescue organization."
In addition to her management, fund development and communications skills, Elizabeth has a love for animals and is committed to the growing success of the Nova Scotia SPCA.
Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience in the non-profit sector, most recently as the Director of Development with Easter Seals of Nova Scotia. She has also served as the Director of Development at the PEI Humane Society, Executive Director with Bulkley Valley HIV/AIDS Society and Revenue Development Director at the PEI Heart and Stroke Foundation.
"The Urban Animal Program enjoyed the leadership of the Nova Scotia SPCA for its subscribers throughout North America. On behalf of nearly 1,600 Urban Animal Directors, Advocates, Mentors, Alumni, Associates and Collaborators we extend a hearty welcome to Elizabeth Murphy the new CEO of this organization," said PetLynx Corporation president and CEO Larry Evans.
"We invite Elizabeth to continue the tradition of North America leadership which we enjoyed under former Chief Executive, Kristen Williams and we offer our support and our encouragement as she takes over the reins of Atlantic Canada’s largest Humane/Rescue organization."
In addition to her management, fund development and communications skills, Elizabeth has a love for animals and is committed to the growing success of the Nova Scotia SPCA.
22 May 2013
Kristen Williams leaves Nova Scotia SPCA
One of Canada's most important Urban Animal thought leaders moves from a pivotal role in Nova Scotia's Humane and Rescue sector.
"It is with mixed emotions that I announce my departure from the Nova Scotia SPCA. My last day will be June 6, 2013. I have accepted the position of President/CEO with Junior Achievement Nova Scotia," said Kristen Williams in her announcement earlier today.
Working with Junior
Achievement will provide Kristen with an opportunity to interact with the boundless potential of young people as well as to support them with programs that promote and cultivate financial literacy,
entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness.
Kristen's achievements serve as a model that can be drawn upon by others in this sector across North America. However, the reform of the governance structure she lead at the Nova Scotia SPCA may be the most important legacy of her tenure with this society. It certainly raised the profile, respect and collaboration the Society had with stakeholders both within and outside of Nova Scotia.
Members of the Urban Animal Industry will miss her confident approach to the challenges of the industry. Those we spoke with have been unanimous in offering their best wishes to Kristen as she takes up this next chapter in her career.
06 May 2013
Nova Scotia to strengthen animal abuse laws
Maximum penalties for animal abuse, mandatory health checks and standard of care regulations are all items on a proposed amendment to Nova Scotia's Animal Protection Act introduced by Agriculture Minister John MacDonell at legislature last week.
MacDonell said the government wants to address the problem of puppy mills and crack down on people who sell dogs without ensuring the health and protection of the animals.
According to the Nova Scotia SPCA's 2012 year end report, the Society responded to more than 18,000 inquiries and complaints regarding the welfare of animals in the province. Under MacDonell's new legislation, the fine for a first time animal abuse offense would increase to $25,000 from $10,000 while a second offense jumps to $50,000 from $25,000.
The amendments would give the agricultural minister authority to create regulations about the standard of care for animals, including shelters such as dog houses, animal restraints and tethers.
MacDonell said the government wants to address the problem of puppy mills and crack down on people who sell dogs without ensuring the health and protection of the animals.
According to the Nova Scotia SPCA's 2012 year end report, the Society responded to more than 18,000 inquiries and complaints regarding the welfare of animals in the province. Under MacDonell's new legislation, the fine for a first time animal abuse offense would increase to $25,000 from $10,000 while a second offense jumps to $50,000 from $25,000.
The amendments would give the agricultural minister authority to create regulations about the standard of care for animals, including shelters such as dog houses, animal restraints and tethers.
22 April 2013
Nova Scotia SPCA Animal Wellness Conference
Early Bird
Registration Now Open for
Nova Scotia SPCA 3rd
Annual Animal Wellness Conference
The Nova Scotia SPCA invites you to attend the 3rd Annual
Animal Wellness Conference taking place May 10 & 11th at the Nova Scotia
Community College Waterfront Campus, Dartmouth. This two-day signature
event provides a quality educational and networking experience for those
interested in learning more about animal wellness and welfare including members
of the general public, animal welfare groups, students, the veterinary
community, businesses and volunteers.
Our online registration system is now open. Our early bird
two-day conference rate of $100 is available for a limited time only. Don't
miss out on this opportunity - register now.
Session topics include: Cat overpopulation crisis, dog
training & behaviour, companion animal health, Dalhousie canid behaviour
research, wildlife rehabilitation, pediatric spay/neuter, pet
photography, fundraising – building relationship for major gifts, volunteer
recruitment and much more.
Conference fee includes a selection of 25 educational
sessions, a full tradeshow experience showcasing pet-related products and
services; great networking opportunities and much more. Coffee breaks and
lunches provided on both days.
Need overnight accommodations?
The Super 8 Dartmouth Hotel is offering a special rate of
$75/night for conference delegates. To book a room, please call 902-463-9520
and ask for the 2013 Nova Scotia SPCA Annual Event Rate.
Full conference details and online registration available
at:
11 April 2013
Justice for All
In 2012, the Nova Scotia SPCA in partnership with the Nova Scotia Department of Justice launched an initiative aimed at saving the lives of dogs and people. This initiative is the first of its kind in Nova Scotia and a unique approach to using animals to provide therapy.
Working On Our Future, WOOF, will see offenders and officers offsetting labour strain through volunteer programs and a new canine therapy program to assist both dogs and offenders mutually achieve goals of skill development and socialization. This program will help dogs with behavioral challenges become more adoptable and offenders develop skills to be more productive in society. As a result, adoption revenues will increase and labour strains devoted to training and animal care will be eased.
William Thompson, an inmate at the Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility told the Chronicle Herald, "To have the opportunity to work with the SPCA and learn some animal-related work skills is something I greatly look forward to. It also keeps me motivated to be a model inmate."
When the 2013 Regional Conference Tour stops in Halifax on 18 April, Captain John Landry and trainer Amy MacRae will present the WOOF concept during the Regional Innovation Showcase. This initiative may be a candidate for a 2013 Summit Award.
Working On Our Future, WOOF, will see offenders and officers offsetting labour strain through volunteer programs and a new canine therapy program to assist both dogs and offenders mutually achieve goals of skill development and socialization. This program will help dogs with behavioral challenges become more adoptable and offenders develop skills to be more productive in society. As a result, adoption revenues will increase and labour strains devoted to training and animal care will be eased.
William Thompson, an inmate at the Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility told the Chronicle Herald, "To have the opportunity to work with the SPCA and learn some animal-related work skills is something I greatly look forward to. It also keeps me motivated to be a model inmate."
When the 2013 Regional Conference Tour stops in Halifax on 18 April, Captain John Landry and trainer Amy MacRae will present the WOOF concept during the Regional Innovation Showcase. This initiative may be a candidate for a 2013 Summit Award.
05 April 2013
Wind Energy Sustains Nova Scotia SPCA
The Nova Scotia SPCA has uncovered a predictable, reliable and sustainable source of revenue that will benefit not only the organization, but the community and the environment as well.
Working within the Province's COMFIT regulations, RMS Energy selected the NS SPCA to provide a "community" benefit for its application for a wind energy project. In return, the SPCA will receive dividends which could reach $100-200,000 annually for the 25-30 year lifecycle of the project beginning in 2014.
"Non-profit organizations like the SPCA need to be very adaptive and flexible. We are quickly moving toward framing our organizations quite differently than we traditionally have," said NS SPCA executive director Kristin Williams. "We're not necessarily the charities of the past, we are going to be hybrid organizations that are involved in business development, social enterprise and that are looking at new and interesting ways to become sustainable."
The Sustainable Wind Initiative will be presented by Kristin Williams as part of the Regional Innovation Showcase at the upcoming Regional Conference in Halifax on 18 April.
Working within the Province's COMFIT regulations, RMS Energy selected the NS SPCA to provide a "community" benefit for its application for a wind energy project. In return, the SPCA will receive dividends which could reach $100-200,000 annually for the 25-30 year lifecycle of the project beginning in 2014.
"Non-profit organizations like the SPCA need to be very adaptive and flexible. We are quickly moving toward framing our organizations quite differently than we traditionally have," said NS SPCA executive director Kristin Williams. "We're not necessarily the charities of the past, we are going to be hybrid organizations that are involved in business development, social enterprise and that are looking at new and interesting ways to become sustainable."
The Sustainable Wind Initiative will be presented by Kristin Williams as part of the Regional Innovation Showcase at the upcoming Regional Conference in Halifax on 18 April.
28 February 2013
Nova Scotia Announces Funding For SPCA
The Nova Scotia SPCA announced today the Government of Nova Scotia will fund the investigations and enforcement program which was jeopardized earlier this year.
“We always felt that the Province was an important partner for the Nova Scotia SPCA, and we look forward to building this partnership as we advance these conversations and collaborate on this important work” said Executive Director of the Nova Scotia SPCA, Kristin Williams. “We are also deeply humbled by the support of the community who clearly care about the animals in the province that we are privileged to serve.”
The Nova Scotia SPCA will participate in meetings with the Agriculture Department next week to determine the final details of the funding agreement. This announcement reverses the decision reported earlier by InfoStream.
“We always felt that the Province was an important partner for the Nova Scotia SPCA, and we look forward to building this partnership as we advance these conversations and collaborate on this important work” said Executive Director of the Nova Scotia SPCA, Kristin Williams. “We are also deeply humbled by the support of the community who clearly care about the animals in the province that we are privileged to serve.”
The Nova Scotia SPCA will participate in meetings with the Agriculture Department next week to determine the final details of the funding agreement. This announcement reverses the decision reported earlier by InfoStream.
26 February 2013
Where does government fit?
Manitoba residents recently learned the provincial government silently suspended the licensing requirement for dog breeders over a year ago.
Wayne Lees, Manitoba's chief veterinary officer told CBC News his office was too busy with animal welfare cases to take on licensing right now.
Earlier this month, InfoStream reported the Nova Scotia SPCA would cease its animal enforcement and cruelty investigations due to lack of provincial funds. In response to this announcement, CTV initiated an online poll asking the question: "Whose responsibility is it to fund SPCA enforcement of animal cruelty laws?"
Over 2,400 people responded to the poll, the majority (52%) answering, "It's up to the government."
Collaboration has been a longstanding mantra of the Urban Animal Strategies program. Perhaps now more than ever, industry and government need to agree on the roles, the funding and the execution of the services required to create a meaningful and collaborative future for the citizens they serve.
Wayne Lees, Manitoba's chief veterinary officer told CBC News his office was too busy with animal welfare cases to take on licensing right now.
Earlier this month, InfoStream reported the Nova Scotia SPCA would cease its animal enforcement and cruelty investigations due to lack of provincial funds. In response to this announcement, CTV initiated an online poll asking the question: "Whose responsibility is it to fund SPCA enforcement of animal cruelty laws?"
Over 2,400 people responded to the poll, the majority (52%) answering, "It's up to the government."
Collaboration has been a longstanding mantra of the Urban Animal Strategies program. Perhaps now more than ever, industry and government need to agree on the roles, the funding and the execution of the services required to create a meaningful and collaborative future for the citizens they serve.
19 February 2013
Nova Scotia SPCA cuts Enforcement and Cruelty Investigations
Nova Scotia SPCA has notified the Department of Agriculture that it will suspend enforcement and animal cruelty investigation services effective 01 April 2013. The department denied a request for core funding of $100,000 to continue these services.
The Nova Scotia SPCA is mandated by legislation to enforce animal cruelty laws but receives just $3,000/year from the Department of Agriculture to toward these services.
According to Kristin Williams, Executive Director, the SPCA responded to more than 18,000 inquiries and complaints regarding the welfare of companion animals in the Province of Nova Scotia during 2012.
The Nova Scotia SPCA is mandated by legislation to enforce animal cruelty laws but receives just $3,000/year from the Department of Agriculture to toward these services.
According to Kristin Williams, Executive Director, the SPCA responded to more than 18,000 inquiries and complaints regarding the welfare of companion animals in the Province of Nova Scotia during 2012.
11 February 2013
Nova Scotia SPCA saves more than 11,000 animals in 2012
Nova Scotia SPCA releases 2012 year end report
According to the report, the Society continues to respond to an exceptionally high call volume. In excess of 18,000 inquiries and complaints regarding the welfare of companion animals in the province of Nova Scotia were received by the provincial office in 2012.
"Through investigations and through intake via our network of branches, the Nova Scotia SPCA saved 11,002 animals in 2012, a staggering increase of 37%," said NSSPCA executive director, Kristin Williams. "The society maintains a 91% live release rate, which we attribute to our robust transfer program, palliative care foster program and an active off-site adoption program in partnership with a variety of retailers."
In addition, the report detailed a number of initiatives undertaken by the Society in 2012 to provide long-term financial sustainability.
"Many of these strategies are innovative and will morph the SPCA into a hybrid organization, more akin to a social enterprise, which is a cutting edge non-profit fiscal strategy," said Williams.
In an effort to broaden the reach of the SPCA, the Society partnered with a number of retailers to provide off-site adoption opportunities. This strategy won the NSSPCA a Summit for Animal Homing at the 2012 International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies.
Other initiatives include partnering with the Department of Justice to offer a canine therapy program to assist both dogs and offenders, opening a veterinary clinic as part of its shelter in Halifax and partnering with the province's lead wind engineer to develop a sustainable and long-term income.
About the Nova Scotia SPCA:
Over the last three years, the NSSPCA has increased live release rates from 65% to 91% province-wide an established NS as the only No Kill province in Canada. The Society achieved a 100% conviction rate for companion animal cruelty investigations. The SPCA has also been recognized as a leader in animal welfare internationally with seven industry awards in the categories of Wellness (2010), Leadership (2010), Sheltering (2010), Communications (2011), Media (2011), Homing (2012) and Volunteerism (2012).
01 November 2012
Nova Scotia SPCA and Pets Unlimited recognized for re-homing strategies and offsite adoption partnership
For the third year in a row, the Nova Scotia SPCA received international recognition in the form of a Summit award at the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies.
As a result of a unique partnership penned between NSSPCA and Pets Unlimited where the Society has become the sole source of animals for the retail outlet, mills in the area have closed, capacity has increased and animal care standards have increased. For this reason, the NSSPCA and Pets Unlimited were awarded the Animal Homing Summit for 2012.
This Summit, presented by IAMS Canada, seeks to recognize an organization that demonstrates innovation, commitment and extraordinary effort in homing animals through adoption, sale and fostering programs.
Previous awards have been awarded to NSSPCA in the categories of Animal Wellness (2010), Education (2010), Leadership (2010) and Communications (2011).
As a result of a unique partnership penned between NSSPCA and Pets Unlimited where the Society has become the sole source of animals for the retail outlet, mills in the area have closed, capacity has increased and animal care standards have increased. For this reason, the NSSPCA and Pets Unlimited were awarded the Animal Homing Summit for 2012.
This Summit, presented by IAMS Canada, seeks to recognize an organization that demonstrates innovation, commitment and extraordinary effort in homing animals through adoption, sale and fostering programs.
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27 September 2012
2012 OpenSpace Sessions set to move the Industry
The 2012 OpenSpace Session in the Victoria Room of the Chateau Lake Louise on Friday, October 12, is designed to provoke dialogue between thought leaders of the companion animal industry.
Through these conversations, the industry develops strategies and evolves to meet changing times, ideas, technologies and obstacles. In addition to conversations that may arise from the ‘facts and evidence’ Sessions on Thursday, key industry stakeholders are bringing forward seven primary conversations:
2012.A George Potter – The CEO of Alberta Animal Services revives a conversation initiated in 2007 to organize a National Organization for the Professionals who enforce and investigate on behalf of pets and people in our communities. A leading question – How do we encourage national standards and increase respect for the role of these professionals in our communities?
2012.B Dr. Liz O’Brien – The CEO of Cats clinics in Hamilton and the National spokesperson for the 2011 Year of the Cat initiative, explores taking the Care for Cats movement to the next level. A leading question - How do we make the national cat initiative sustainable in our communities over the long term?
2012.C Larry Evans – Creating a non-profit vessel for industry collaborations and national initiatives. A leading question – How could a Summit Foundation operate, be governed and determine the industry consensus for the funds supplied to these initiatives?
2012.D Kate MacDonald – Chief Executive Officer of OSPCA has been exploring how Humane and Rescue organizations can change to be effective and sustainable both now and in the future. Leading questions include: What will these organization look like? What will change in their mandate? How will they be funded?
2012.E Drew Van Niekerk – A Nationally recognized Veterinarian helped develop Canada’s largest practice aggregator. Drew is thinking about the gap between what veterinarians and service providers provide and what pet owners want. A leading question – What changes will be necessary for the industry to deliver the healthcare and experience pet families desire?
2012.F Kristin Williams – Executive Director of the Nova Scotia SPCA has been thinking about how governance can be improved in the Humane and Rescue sector. A leading question – How can we attract board members and provision them to be successful understanding the organization, the core objectives and their role in governance?
2012.G Louis McCann – The Executive Director of the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada [PIJAC Canada] has been thinking about the role of member retailers and service providers in each community. Leading questions include: As we move toward social media and the experience economy, what are the new roles for these service providers in our communities? How can we move toward these roles without creating unintended consequences for the industry and the pet families we serve?
Throughout these conversations, topics may arise and gain the support of delegates during the opening session on Friday. The vision for OpenSpace is to embrace evidence and develop strategies needed in our communities, our regions and our industry. Outcomes produced may include recommendations for the organizations that govern our industry, toolkits for the agencies that support pet families in our communities and/or a consensus for priorities that can be supported by all stakeholders in the industry.
Visit these conversations online in the LinkedIn Summit Group to add your comments and perspective.
Get the facts, have your say, move the industry!
19 August 2012
Summit - Communications Award
The Communications Award recognizes outstanding achievement in the development and successful delivery of content, education, communications programs strategies/initiatives and/or media involvement that promotes a better environment for pets and people locally, nationally or internationally.
Presented by Petsecure pet insurance, this award acknowledges the importance of reaching out to the community to garner understanding and awareness for the companion animal industry.
At the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies last year, the Nova Scotia SPCA took the podium for their annual art contest. The contest launched to encourage youth (from kindergarten to grade 12) to express their feelings about animal welfare through art. The 2011 theme was The Year of the Cat, which brought about nearly 500 entries resulting in greater education and awareness about the needs of our feline friends.
At the International Summit for Urban Animal Strategies last year, the Nova Scotia SPCA took the podium for their annual art contest. The contest launched to encourage youth (from kindergarten to grade 12) to express their feelings about animal welfare through art. The 2011 theme was The Year of the Cat, which brought about nearly 500 entries resulting in greater education and awareness about the needs of our feline friends.
Get the facts, have your say, move the industry.
19 July 2012
Nova Scotia SPCA Adresses NDP Caucus
Kristin Williams, Executive Director of the Nova Scotia SPCA, addressed the NDP Caucus on July 18 to express their need for increased support.
Williams shared her concern that their request for core funding was declined by the provincial government and asked the NDP to increase their support beyond the $3,000 they pledge yearly. The Society relies on donations to fund animal cruelty investigations and animal care for the province and must raise over $1 million dollars annually.
The Nova Scotia SPCA has dramatically increased its scope as demand for service has increased, saving over 8,000 animals last year.
08 February 2012
How talking pets helped the SPCA
An incredible story of how one man from Halifax, ‘talking pets’ and social media, affected the lives of companion animals at the Nova Scotia SPCA, raising over $25,000 from the popular Youtube channel Talking Animals.
The popularity of the Youtube channel and comedic videos such as Ultimate Dog Tease and Cats talking, translation, lead to all the profits from the Talking Animals merchandise being donated to the Nova Scotia SPCA.
Read the full story here.
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