Animal Shelter Professionals of Ontario - ASPO

07/10/2025

We know that many of our members’ supporters have been concerned about the animals at Marineland for years. The folks at Humane Canada are asking everyone to reach out to Premier Doug Ford to ask him to take action on the issue now!

Another beluga whale and a harbour seal have died at Marineland. Reports now suggest the facility may declare bankruptcy and has threatened to euthanize the 30 beluga whales that remain in its care if the federal government doesn't act to support them.

Humane Canada is calling on Premier Doug Ford to take immediate action to protect these endangered animals before it’s too late.

Despite repeated offers of assistance with relocating the animals to safer environments, Marineland has refused to collaborate with independent animal welfare experts.

💙 Add your voice today. Sign our letter to Premier Ford and help ensure these animals are given the safety, care, and dignity they deserve.

🔗 Sign the letter: https://win.newmode.net/humanecanada/premierfordyouhavethepowertosavetheanimalsatmarineland

29/09/2025

🎤 Don’t miss out! Register now to see Janet Cutler and Dr. Scott Weese. Two separate days and two fantastic speakers.

October 20th - DEALING WITH DANGEROUS AND DIFFICULT DOGS IN SHELTERS

Many dogs in shelters present with serious behaviour challenges, including aggression and extreme fear and anxiety. These issues complicate daily care, create staff safety concerns, and impact the dogs’ welfare and long-term outcome. This session will focus on practical strategies for managing high-risk dogs in shelter environments as well as behaviour modification and training techniques that are realistic for busy staff. We will also examine frameworks for making difficult outcome decisions, balancing available resources, safety, and quality of life.

​October 21st - FELINE INFECTIOUS PERITONITIS TREATMENT OPTIONS AND LOGISTICS

Access to legal antivirals has revolutionized the treatment of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) but many questions remain about optimal drug choices and treatment regimens, drug access, animal monitoring and other aspects of feline care. This talk will cover various components related to the management of FIP.

Check out the agenda and register today! https://www.aspo.ca/conference

27/09/2025

Don't miss out. only a few days left to register!

www.aspo.ca/conference

22/09/2025

Times running out to register for this years Conference— Registration closes September 30th

📍 Join us at the Ajax Convention Centre for two action-packed days of expert-led sessions covering everything from:
✨ Zoonotic diseases
✨ Canine behaviour
✨ Field rescue operations
✨ Nervous system health
✨ Team building strategies
✨ Cannabis in veterinary medicine
✨ Ways to increase adoption success
✨ Plenty of sessions covering cats (cat emoji)
...and so much more!

🎉 PLUS: We're proud to co-host the first-ever PetSmart Charities of Canada Summit on Day 3—included at no extra cost!

🔗 Explore the agenda & register now: https://www.aspo.ca/conference

Let’s learn, connect, and elevate animal care together 💙

16/09/2025

Thank you to PetSmart Charities for sponsoring Dr. Sara Pizano’s session and bringing her to our conference. Dr. Pizano is a leading expert in shelter reform, is an accomplished public speaker and influencer. she is a positive force helping organizations by creating cost effective programs and eliminating waste, so they reach their full potential. Dr. Pizano is the founder of Team Shelter USA, has been an advisor to the Humane Animal Support Services initiative (HASS), and is a key collaboration partner in the Maddie’s® Million Pet Challenge.

October 21st – ANIMAL WELFARE 2025: WHAT WE NOW KNOW

This session will explore emerging trends in both the U.S. and Canada, correlating them to proven best practices in animal sheltering. Attendees will be encouraged to expand their thinking, challenge biases, and let go of fears that may hinder the best outcomes for animals. The focus will be on proactive, community-centered programs that keep pets safe, supported, and out of the shelter when possible.

Don’t miss hearing Dr. Pizano speak again during the first ever Canadian PetSmart Charities Summit on Wednesday October 22nd.

Check out the agenda and register today! https://www.aspo.ca/conference

14/09/2025

🐾 You show up for every paw & every heartbeat. Now it’s time to show up for you.

At the 2025 Annual Conference, you’ll reconnect with your purpose, your people, and the reason you started this journey in the first place. Healing animals starts with healing ourselves. 🐕

Three action-packed days of expert-led sessions covering everything from:
✨ Zoonotic diseases
✨ Canine behaviour
✨ Field rescue operations
✨ Nervous system health
✨ Team building strategies
✨ Cannabis in veterinary medicine
✨ Ways to increase adoption success
✨ Plenty of sessions covering cats
✨ PetSmart Charities first ever Canadian Summit
✨ ........and so much more!

🔗 Explore the full agenda & register now: https://www.aspo.ca/conference

06/09/2025

Monica Tarant is a sought-after speaker and consultant; recognized for her leadership in progressive community cat programs, transformative shelter management, and crafting sustainable, impactful strategies for animal welfare organizations.

October 21st _- TESTING, TREATMENT, AND COMPASSIONATE CARE FOR FeLV+ CATS IN 2025 🐈

Monica’s session will cut through the confusion and provide clear, up-to-date recommendations for FeLV testing, shelter housing, and adoption strategies. You'll learn how to confidently manage the care of FeLV+ cats in your organization, from daily health protocols to successful adoptions. Most importantly, you'll leave empowered to rescue, place, and advocate for these incredible cats, armed with the knowledge to dispel fears and support their best outcomes.

This is just one of the many cat related sessions happening at this year’s conference. Don’t wait till the last minute,

Register now at www.aspo.ca/conference

01/09/2025

REGISTER TODAY!

In case you missed her last year, Angie Arora is coming back!

October 21st - PRACTICAL STRATEGIES FOR ENERGY MANAGEMENT IN ANIMAL CARE
How many times do you come home completely depleted after a shift? How many times does this day become weeks, and these weeks become months? What if we could begin to interrupt this pattern? Her session will focus on things within our control from an energy management perspective, focusing on micro-practices to replenish mental, emotional, and physical energy throughout one’s shift. Micro practices are a powerful way to reframe our understanding of self-care as something that needs to wait until we’re done work, to integrating small ‘resets’ throughout our day.

Register at www.aspo.ca/conference

30/08/2025

You won't want to miss this years social event, Pints, Paddles & Bullseyes. Don't worry, if Archery isn't for you, we have an entire room for ping pong and just hanging out.

No need to worry about dinner or deciding who will drive. We have you covered! The best part, all of this is included in your conference registration!

Register today at www.aspo.ca/conference. We can't wait to see you next month.

New Archery Tag and Ping Pong spot in Pickering, Ontario. Late night hangout spot and amazing time for family and friends.

25/08/2025

🎤 Don’t miss this! Register now to hear Corey Atkinson live!

Corey is a powerhouse speaker, executive coach, and author of the Values & Culture Book Series. Known for his dynamic style and practical wisdom, Corey captivates audiences with sessions that are described as “powerful,” “engaging from start to finish,” and “passion in action.”

🔥 Mark your calendar for October 20—Corey’s two powerhouse sessions are not to be missed!

👥CONNECTING ACROSS GENERATIONS
Discover how to foster collaboration across age groups and build a values-driven culture that celebrates every contribution. Corey shares actionable strategies to bridge generational gaps and harness the strengths of each generation—all in service of animal and community well-being.

💬 COURAGEOUS CONVERSATIONS: BUILDING TRUST WITH TACT
In high-pressure environments like animal shelters, tough conversations are inevitable—and essential. Learn how to approach them with empathy and clarity to strengthen trust, resilience, and team cohesion. Corey will guide you through turning difficult moments into meaningful growth.

✨ Corey’s energy, insight, and authenticity make this a can’t-miss experience. Secure your spot today!

🔗 Explore the full agenda & register now: https://www.aspo.ca/conference