An important service the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch provides to the community is accepting owner surrenders of companion animals.

If you have a pet that you can no longer provide care for, or no longer wish to keep, you can surrender the animal to the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch. In return, we ask that you make a small financial contribution to assist the shelter, a charitable organization, with the ongoing care of the animal.

If you're considering surrendering your pet because you feel unable to deal with his or her behaviour, we encourage you to seek advice and training to work with behaviour problems before making a final decision. Most behaviour problems arise due to miscommunication between the owner and the pet (for example, pushing or yelling at a dog for jumping up only encourages more jumping), or when a certain need of the pet is not being met (inadequate exercise can lead to hyperactive and destructive dogs).

For behaviour tip sheets for dogs and cats visit the links below. If you are a dog owner, you may wish to visit the Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers' website to help find trainers in your area. (Please note: The Ontario SPCA does not endorse any individual trainer and encourages people to choose positive trainers who use methods that do not cause pain or suffering to dogs, but help foster a trusting relationship.) Veterinarians may also provide helpful advice or refer you to someone specializing in animal behavior in your area. Seek out "positive" trainers who will teach you how to motivate your dog to do the behaviours you'd like in a "positive" manner that enhances your relationship with your pet and builds trust. Avoid trainers who advocate the use of force, yelling, threats, punishment and violence.

With a little patience and effort many behaviour problems can be resolved and you can be rewarded with a well-behaved animal and years of love and companionship.

Behaviour and Training Tips | Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers

With a little patience and effort many behaviour problems can be resolved and you can be rewarded with a well-behaved animal and years of love and companionship.

Before surrendering an animal to the Barrie Branch we ask that you:

1. Try other adoption options including asking other family members, friends, neighbours or coworkers if they are interested in adopting your pet. No one knows your pet better than you or is better qualified to determine the best possible match.
2. If you cannot find a good home for your pet, please call or visit the shelter to let them know you would like to come in and surrender your pet. Arrange a suitable time to visit the shelter and surrender your pet.
3. Drop by the shelter ahead of time to pick up a Surrender Form, or download the form below and bring it with you when you surrender your pet. By providing as much information as possible about your animal's history you will help the shelter find a suitable match.

Cat Surrender Form | Dog Surrender Form | Small Animal Surrender Form