Toronto Animal Services campaign says ‘change your life’ by falling in love with a big dog
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According to a city agency, large dogs are loyal, affectionate and loving dogs, but they are often overlooked when it comes to pet adoption.
Toronto Animal Services says it has teamed up with Toronto-based fresh dog food company NutriCanine to change perceptions about large dogs. The two organizations will run their second annual campaign from March 23 to April 23 to help senior dogs find loving homes in the Greater Toronto Area.
Toronto Animal Services says it will waive all adoption fees for large dogs and large breed puppies across Toronto to encourage more families to consider adopting a larger one.
Large is defined as a dog weighing more than 50 pounds or a puppy that is expected to exceed that weight.
‘These dogs have a lot of love to give’
Elana Trenoff, partnerships manager at Toronto Animal Services, said people are sometimes intimidated by the idea of owning a larger dog. There may be concerns about space, exercise requirements and a fit lifestyle, he said. But she said big dogs mean big love.
“These dogs have a lot of love to give,” she said. “And I think if you give them a chance, it can change your life.”
Trenoff said the agency is running the campaign because larger dogs wait longer for owners because of their size.
“Large dogs sit in our shelters through no fault of their own at least one and a half to two times longer than other animals,” he said.
The campaign resulted in 58 adoptions last year
Trenoff said many large dogs are ideal companions who thrive in a variety of living situations.
“We have a lot of couch potatoes who are very happy going for walks and living in a small space. Every single dog has their own story, and the only way to really know is to come and meet them and understand which one is the best fit for you,” she said.
Last year the campaign resulted in 58 adoptions.
Trenoff said the adoption process remains the same, which means potential pet owners should go this city webpage To view available dogs. They should then call the shelter where their desired dog is being housed, make an appointment, bring their family members and perhaps their existing pet to see it, and find out which dog is the best fit.
