OAKVILLE – After 257 days in a shelter, Bella — a loving, playful pit bull-type dog — finally has the chance to run free, feel the warmth of a family, and be part of a home. But not in Ontario.
Instead, the Oakville & Milton Humane Society (OMHS) had to look over 3,000 kilometres west — to Calgary, Alberta — due to Ontario’s breed-specific legislation, which prohibits pit bull-type dogs from being adopted within the province.
A Long Road to a New Beginning
Bella was found as a stray in Oakville in October 2024 and brought into OMHS care. Despite her affectionate nature, the shelter couldn’t legally place her for adoption in Ontario because she was identified as a “pit bull-type” under the province’s Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA).
With limited local placement options and ongoing capacity challenges across rescue networks, OMHS sought help beyond provincial borders. A connection formed months earlier at a holiday market eventually led to a solution — the Calgary Humane Society offered to take Bella in.
Not Just a Flight — A Mission
Getting Bella to Alberta took months of coordination. OMHS staff worked to crate-train her, obtain veterinary clearance, and finalize travel logistics. On June 25, Bella boarded a flight from Toronto to Calgary, where she will now be placed for adoption legally — something not possible under current Ontario law.
The Bigger Picture: Rethinking Ontario’s Breed Ban
Bella’s story is heartwarming, but it also highlights the limitations of Ontario’s breed ban. Introduced in 2005, the legislation was intended to reduce dog attacks but has drawn criticism from animal advocates who say it unfairly targets specific breeds, often leading to long shelter stays, euthanasia, or forced relocation.
A Happy Ending, at Last
Now safe in Calgary, Bella is settling into her new environment and preparing to find her forever family. Her journey is a testament to the dedication of shelter staff and the importance of cross-country collaboration in animal welfare.
OMHS continues to support animals like Bella through transport partnerships and donations from the public. Those interested in contributing can visit omhs.ca to learn more or make a donation.
🐶 Pet of the Week
Starting next Sunday, GTA Pets: Paws & Purpose will spotlight adoptable pets from shelters across the region — beginning with the Oakville & Milton Humane Society.
From senior cats to bouncy puppies, each week we’ll bring you a furry face ready for their forever home. Because every pet deserves a second chance.
📍GTA Pets: Paws & Purpose is published every Sunday in GTA Weekly, sponsored by the Oakville & Milton Humane Society.
Follow us @GTAWeeklyNews for heartwarming pet stories, adoption features, and more. #GTAPets #GTAToday #GTAWeekly
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