The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth has been serving the community since 1927. The humane society is self-funded and self-governed.
In 2012, the Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society and the Stratford SPCA combined under one organization and board of directors to create KWSPHS. The Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society and Stratford Perth Humane Society have long standing histories of serving people and pets in their communities. In 2012, the two organizations joined to become one of Ontario's largest animal welfare charities. Today,
they are known as The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth, which operate animal centres in Kitchener and Stratford. Together, they service the areas of Kitchener, Waterloo, Wilmot, Woolwich, Wellesley, Stratford and Perth County. The humane society also helps animals outside of these areas, as time and resources allow. Outside of contracts for animal services, they receive no government funding. Instead, they rely on the generosity of donors to help animals within their communities and to provide animal welfare focused education and outreach. MISSION
We are leaders in animal welfare in our communities, focusing on the responsible treatment of animals through education, compliance, advocacy and care. VISION
Communities that value and respect animals. VALUES
Serving communities
Humane treatment of animals
Innovation and learning
Compassion and dedication
Leadership and collaboration
Accountability
Did you know all dogs require a license in the City of Kitchener?
Licensing your dog isn’t just the law—it helps keep pets safe and gets them home faster if they ever get lost.
· All dogs living in the City of Kitchener must be licensed annually
· It’s quick and easy – plus fees help support local animal services and care
· You can purchase your dog’s license online or in person at The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth
Visit kwsphumane.ca/licensing to get started today!
Let’s work together to keep our pets safe and our community pet-friendly. 🐕 🐾
06/19/2025
If you come to visit our centre, you may walk right past Nelly's kennel without even knowing she exists. She is very shy and prefers to hide away, under a blanket, but this sweet girl has so much love to give.
Just look at how she blossoms and comes out of her shell when someone spends a little time with her. We would love to find Nelly a forever home where she can feel loved every single day.
To learn more about this beautiful kitty, please visit our website.
This pint-sized powerhouse is all about playtime. Feather wands? Yes. Crinkle balls? Absolutely. Your toes under the blanket? Her favourite game. Mademoiselle Pouncers zips, zooms, and pounces through her day like it's a mission, and her mission is to make you laugh.
Beneath the wild energy is a sweet, affectionate kitten who adores attention (once she's burned off a few zoomies). She's a total goofball with a heart of gold.
Mademoiselle Pouncers is ready to bounce her way into your heart-and maybe onto your shelves. Adopt her today and let the fun begin!
Have you been introduced to our long-term resident, Fry? He's had quite the journey with us and we hope he can find a forever home soon!
Fry came to us back in December as a stray. He was suffering from infections in both of his ears, inflammation and swelling of all his feet, and patches of inflammation on his skin. He was treated for these conditions and diagnosed with allergic skin disease. Allergies in dogs can be caused by both food and the environment, and generally cannot be cured, but managed with medical/dietary treatment. You can see how patchy the fur on his face and legs are in his "before" photo.
During his stay with us Fry has been assessed and treated by our medical team on an ongoing basis to ensure his allergic skin disease is managed to the best of our abilities. He has been such a good boy for all of his treatments!
We're also happy to report that Fry is not currently on any medications for his allergies, but he will stay on a hypoallergenic diet to prevent them from recurring. Fry's new family will need to be prepared to continue managing his allergies in cooperation with their vet, but we are certain this special boy is worth it!
If you're interested in adopting this sweet pup, please visit our website to learn all about him. Can't adopt? Help us share Fry's story in hopes of catching the eye of a potential adopter ❤️
Summer is almost here! Do you have activities planned for your kids??
We have just a few spaces left for our award winning Summer Camp at our Stratford location. Our summer camp provides a safe space to learn, meet new friends (animal and human!), and play. Each summer camp week is filled with animal themed games and activities, guest presenters, educational activities, crafts, and to end the week off right...pizza!
Visit our website for more information and to sign up!
Introducing Bushy, a sweet green cheek conure with soft feathers, a curious mind, and a quiet charm that sneaks up on you. Though she may be a little nervous around new people at first, she's also the quickest to form deep bonds - once you're "her person," she'll be your loyal little shadow.
Bushy enjoys her freedom outside of the cage, often choosing to perch up high and watch the world go by. She's not overly demanding and seems to enjoy peaceful company - the kind of bird who brings calm presence into a room.
And yes, she talks! Her favourite phrase is "whatcha doing?" - a perfectly fitting question for a bird who's always observing with quiet curiosity. She also knows a few other words and sounds, which she may share once she's feeling comfortable and safe.
Gracey is a big, beautiful dog with a gorgeous shimmering grey coat! This pretty girl is sweet, friendly, and full of love to give. She can be shy and nervous when meeting new people, but once she feels safe, Gracey's affectionate and loyal personality truly shines. She would thrive in a calm, patient home where she can take her time to settle in and build trust. If you're looking for a loving companion who will be your quiet shadow and loyal friend, Gracey just might be your perfect match!
Get your cameras ready and take your best shot. It's almost time for our 2026 Calendar Contest!
Starting July 1st, you can submit a favourite photo of your pet and have the chance to win. Our top 12 pets will receive a photo session with Victor Rose Photography and a feature spot in our 2026 calendar.
So put on your pet's finest bandana or bow and start snapping pics!
Stay tuned for more details on how to enter and win. To view last year's winners, please visit our website.
We're so thankful for our wonderful foster volunteers. This month, we'd like to highlight Vivian!
Vivian joined our foster team in June 2022, as a cat foster. Vivian helps in any way she can with our adoption cats, welcoming TLC cats, mama cats and kittens or bottle babies into her home.
When asked why she chose to become a Foster volunteer at The Humane Society of KWSP, here is what Vivian had to say:
“I’ve always loved animals and wanted to gain more hands-on experience caring for them. At the time, I wasn’t sure if I was ready to adopt my own cat, so fostering felt like the perfect first step. I still remember my first foster, Thumpy. He was in rough shape: bony, stinky, shaved patches, uneven eyes, and rough paws. But he was one of the sweetest, most loving cats I’ve ever met. He curled up on my lap the first day I brought him home and always came to me, even when he was weak. Thumpy showed me what it means to be mentally strong and reminded me not to judge by appearances. After two months of care, he grew into a handsome, medium-haired cat with rich chocolate coloured fur.”
What is Vivian’s favourite part of her role and volunteering with The Humane Society?
“I love building trust with shy or fearful cats. It is incredibly rewarding to see them take baby steps out of their comfort zone. Watching a cat realize that scratchies feel good, that treats are better than kibble, and that humans would do anything for me when I act extra cute is what I live for. That first time they jump onto the bed to be near you or close their eyes as they inch closer to take a treat are small milestones that feel like huge wins. I still remember Daisy, who would close her eyes while leaning in to take a treat from my hand, and Tazz, who turned into a snapping turtle when she wanted to grab treats but was too scared to get close. They taught me that it is okay to go slow, to regress, and to start over again. I have also felt incredibly supported throughout this journey by the KWSPHS team. The foster coordinator, the RVT team, and the foster Facebook group have all made me feel part of a truly compassionate community.”
What would Vivian say to anyone thinking about becoming a Foster volunteer with The Humane Society?
“If you have too much love to give, there are animals at KWSPHS who would love to receive it. And if you have a little extra time, fostering TLC animals is incredibly meaningful. The reward doubles when you see them grow. You do not need to be perfect. Just show up with patience, love, and an open heart. They will teach you more than you could ever imagine.”
If you're looking for a little bundle of wild charm wrapped in fluffy cuteness, Mimi is your girl! This spirited furball is a perfect mix of playful mischief and heart-melting sweetness. She loves zooming around like a tiny tornado (hence the Stormy), but will also curl up on your lap for the coziest cuddle sessions.
Mimi's favourite activities include chasing shadows, pouncing on toys, and demanding belly rubs on her own adorable terms. She's got a sassy streak but a heart of gold, ready to shower her new family with love and purrs.
If you're ready for a loyal, lively, and loving companion who'll brighten your days (and keep you on your toes), Mimi Stormy Paws can't wait to meet you!
Chicken Little may be small in size, but he has a huge personality tucked behind those soft feathers and cautious eyes. This adorable budgie is still learning that the sky isn't falling , it's just full of love, patience, and gentle voices.
Chicken Little is a nervous guy who's had a slow start, but he's making progress every day. He watches the world carefully from his favourite perch and is slowly warming up to the idea that hands can offer treats and kindness. He may not be ready to step up just yet, but with time, consistency, and a calm environment, Chicken Little has the potential to become a confident companion. He loves soft music, the sound of other birds chirping, and quietly observing his surroundings. He would do best in a peaceful home with someone who understands that trust takes time and every little flutter forward is a victory. If you have a gentle heart and the patience to show Chicken Little the sky is safe, he might just reward you with the sweetest chirps and a forever bond.
As Canadians, we're used to harsh winters. This year, however, we really felt it.
Because of the enormous amount of snowfall we received this past winter, the outdoor dog runs at our Stratford location were badly damaged along with our heating exhaust system and outside duct work. The heavy weight of the snow caused the dog run roof to collapse and rendered the space unsafe for our adoptable dogs. We had to act fast to get everything fixed up. Insurance has covered a portion of the cost, but not the full amount which has left us with a shortfall of $10,000 in repair costs.
Without your help, this unexpected expense could have a ripple effect on the important work we do for animals in our care. We are reaching out to you, our community, in hopes of raising enough to cover the additional costs from the damage.
If you are able to give, please visit our website to donate online or come by our centre to make a donation in person. You can also help by sharing this post!
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Contact The Business
Send a message to Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society:
The Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society was founded in 1927 with a mission of helping lost, abandoned or abused animals get a second chance at life. In 2012, we assumed ownership of the long-standing Perth County OSPCA branch, renaming it the Stratford Perth Humane Society. Since 2012, we have been known as one organization, now called the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth.
The Humane Society exists to help animals in need in our communities. We operate two locations - the Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society in Kitchener, and the Stratford Perth Humane Society in Stratford. Together they service the areas of Kitchener, Waterloo, Wilmot, Woolwich, Wellesley, Stratford and Perth County. From time to time we help animals outside of these areas, as time and resources allow.
The Humane Society is self-funded and self- governed. Outside of contracts for animal protection services, we receive no government funding. We rely on the generosity of our donors to help animals within our communities and to provide animal welfare focused community education and outreach.
We offer a variety of community programs for youth and adults, as well as low-cost veterinary options such as microchipping, trap-neuter-return / barn cat programs, and spay/neuter services.
For more information on our organization, along with our programs and services, we gladly invite you to visit our website at kwsphumane.ca.
