OSPCA Agent

Our OHS staff answers frequently asked questions:

What is a typical day like in your job?

First we must do vehicle checks on all three of our investigations vehicles so that they are safe and ready to go in case we get an emergency call for an injured animal right at the start of our shift (which begins at 7a.m.). After that we go through all of the messages that have been left overnight on our voicemail and return these calls, getting either more information to conduct an investigation, or passing them onto the appropriate people. Once the phone calls are returned and investigations made, we organize our day based on the level of distress each animal may be in for each case. The rest of the day is spent on the road, conducting investigations and returning phone calls in between calls, when in the office. We work closely with police, city bylaw officers, the Children's Aid Society and the sheriff's department to try and help make a difference for Ottawa's animals and wildlife.

Why did you get involved in this type of work?

I love animals and wanted to do something that would help make a difference in their lives. I couldn't stand to see helpless creatures being abused, neglected or abandoned and really wanted to devote each and every day of my life making sure that these animals had a voice on their side, fighting for their rights to a good life.

What skills and training do you need for this job?

A degree in some sort of law would help a lot, plus a very good understanding of all types of animals - not just dogs and cats, even though they make up a majority of our calls. We also deal with wildlife, amphibians, birds and livestock.

What's the hardest part of your job?

Seeing an animal who is suffering!

What's the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of our job is rescuing a suffering animal and seeing a happy ending for that animal. That could mean the animal gets medical attention, or is adopted into a loving family.

Do you have any advice for kids who would like to do this type of job when they get older?

Yes, I would recommend taking a vet technician course or something in law to gain some valuable knowledge of both the law and animals. The one thing to remember about this kind of work is you really have to be prepared to leave your emotions at home. We see some pretty awful things that require us to think straight and not react emotionally.

Do you have any pets?

Yes, I just recently adopted an American Fox Hound (named "Cooper", four years old). I initially fostered him after he had his leg amputated, the result of being hit by a car. He is doing great and is one of the most affectionate dogs you'll ever meet - he loves everyone, even cats! When he is out chasing squirrels, you can't even tell he only has three legs. He's very fast and agile!

There are lots of ways you can work with animals. Read more in our animal careers section!

Ottawa Humane Society Staff Profiles

There are many interesting jobs at the Ottawa Humane Society! Meet a few of our staff members to find out what they do!