We invite you to drop by the shelter during adoption hours to visit the animals in our lovely windowed cat gazebo, kitty condos and large dog apartments, or browse our site and view our adoptable animals online. Find your friend for life!

The Ontario SPCA Orillia Branch was formed in 1970 by a group of volunteers who wanted to help alleviate animal overpopulation in the area humanely and responsibly through spaying, neutering and adoption and wanted to provide a safe haven for neglected, abused and abandoned animals. For four years the Branch operated without a shelter, and volunteers cared for animals within their own homes. In 1974 the dream of a shelter became a reality thanks to dedicated volunteers who hosted countless fund raising events, including dances, bake sales and tag days.

Since the Branch's original formation in 1970 the human population in the area has doubled! To meet the increasing demands of a similarly expanding animal population, the shelter has grown as well, doubling in size from 2,400 square feet to 4,800 square feet! The shelter has become an important cornerstone within the community, and a welcoming place for both animals and their two-legged friends. In 2002 the shelter added lovely, large dog apartments, kitty condos and a cat gazebo - all with glass windows for viewing. Other renovations at the shelter have included large outdoor dog runs.

For over 30 years the Branch has provided a wealth of animal welfare services in the community, including animal cruelty investigations; animal rescues; intake and re-homing of surrendered, abandoned and stray animals; and humane education programs for local schools and community groups. In recognition of their great contributions and achievements the Branch has received numerous awards over the years including a Business Achievement Award from the Chamber of Commerce in 2001 and 2002, and a Success Fund raising Award from Member of Provincial Parliament, Garfield Dunlop, in 2002.

Since 1994 the Branch has operated a successful Bite Free Program, created for primary-aged children, as well as parent groups. Designed to prevent animal bites by teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs and cats, the program has helped teach hundreds of children and their parents about the humane treatment and care of animals.

The Orillia Branch has also worked closely with the Simcoe County Association for the Physically Disabled. The program encourages physically disabled members of the Association to volunteer at the shelter brushing the cats, and socializing or walking the dogs with the assistance of a special coordinator. A special-needs youth also visits the shelter weekly to assist with washing food and water dishes. All volunteers make a wonderful contribution to the shelter!

Each year, more and more dedicated people come forward to volunteer their time and expertise at the Orillia Branch with a vision of providing a better life for unwanted and uncared for animals - helping the shelter to continue to grow, improve and gain support. We thank you!