News & Events

Sunny was an experienced leader at HSKL where he welcomed visitors, supported shelter animals, and charmed staff and volunteers. Now adopted, he continues his public service as a therapy cat at Ross Memorial Hospital, visiting patients monthly and helping foster other cats in need. As Mayor, Sunny would champion adoption, fostering, and therapy programs, while sharing plenty of cuddles along the way.

Pennie was rescued in 2021 from a severe hoarding situation, arriving at the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes underweight, ill, and extremely fearful. After months of care, she was fostered and then adopted, slowly gaining confidence through patience and daily encouragement. Now, she’s a happy, playful, and affectionate dog who loves people, especially kids, and brings joy wherever she goes. A true survivor, Pennie would lead with heart, advocate for fewer salty sidewalks, and happily accept a salary of treats and belly rubs.

Brixton (formerly Bacon) came into his family’s life by chance after they spotted him on the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes page and felt an instant connection. Rescued as a stray with a painful eye condition that was treated before adoption, he quickly became a beloved part of their home. Now a big, goofy, blanket-loving lap dog with a huge personality, Brixton brings chaos, laughter, and love to his family, and is a perfect example of the resilience and joy of rescue dogs.

Moose, adopted from the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes, was love at first sight when his family found him socializing with HSKL Volunteers at the mall. Though he started out loud and chaotic, he quickly settled into family life and now rules the house with confidence. A vocal “welcoming committee” with a big personality, Moose keeps the other pets in line and always makes sure he gets the attention he deserves.

Petey, a former stray adopted from the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes, quickly won over his family with his calm demeanor and playful spirit. Smart, food-motivated, and eager to learn, he excels in training, adventures, and even his role as an “office dog,” charming everyone he meets. From wild outdoor explorer to cuddly companion, Petey’s personality and heart make him a perfect Pet Mayor candidate.

Beau had a tough start coming from a puppy mill. He is friendly and gets along with all the neighbourhood dogs. He is very vocal and gets his point across, just like any good mayor should be!

Bobbi, adopted from the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes, is the definition of a lovable dog. He enjoys his toys, his walks, and especially meeting people. Wherever he goes, Bobbi carries himself with confidence, happily strutting around like he owns the town.

Since being adopted just four months ago, he has brought so much joy and happiness to his family’s life. When they take him out to stores, he quickly becomes the center of attention, with people stopping to ask if they can pet him.

Despite his big size and slightly intimidating look, Bobbi is incredibly friendly and loves everyone he meets. His charm and outgoing personality make him a perfect candidate for Pet Mayor.

Obi came into his family’s life as a frightened foster, unsure and shaken, but quickly stole their hearts. After a brief adoption that didn’t work out, his new family welcomed him home for good just before Christmas. Despite a difficult past, Obi has grown into a loving, cuddly dog who now runs freely, trusts again, and brings warmth to his family. His resilience and gentle heart make him a true testament to the power of patience, love, and second chances.

Bentley was a matted, shaggy dog when staff from Lakeland Funeral & Cremation Centre first met him at the Humane Society in 2015. Originally named David, he quickly made it clear he preferred the name Bentley.

With his gentle and intuitive personality, Bentley became the perfect companion for families visiting the funeral home, offering comfort and affection to those experiencing grief. Over the years, he has shared his kindness with hundreds of people of all ages.

Outside of work, Bentley enjoys running through the woods with his cousin Cooper and littermate J.J., another rescue. Known for his friendly nature, he often greets people around town and even visits City Hall. Through it all, Bentley continues to bring positivity and care to the Kawartha Lakes community wherever he goes.

Douglas is a loving, sassy, firecracker! Since day one, he's had a special bond with his family and everyday it keeps growing. He helps with his owner's stress and makes them happy every day. He loves sitting in the window and looking at all the birds. Douglas deserves to be Mayor of Kawartha Lakes because he is loyal, charming and is a protector.

Jet came to the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes and quickly found his forever home. He was the first pet in his new family, and from the moment he arrived, he adapted with ease.

Jet is fast, brave, playful, and good-tempered. He loves nature, treats, food, people, and other animals, always full of spunk and energy. Four years later, he continues to bring joy, laughter, and affection to everyone around him. His happy, loving, and spirited personality makes him a perfect candidate for Pet Mayor.

Storm came to the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes in 2023 as part of a large intake from the Bark Bus, arriving with his mom and brother. A volunteer who had helped care for many of the incoming dogs quickly fell for him, especially watching how closely he bonded with his little family.

Adopted in March 2023, Storm may have been small at the time, but he already had a big personality and even bigger paws. From the moment he got home, he formed a special bond with the youngest member of the family, drawn to her right away.

Lulu instantly stole her family’s hearts when they met her at the Humane Society, bringing endless joy, energy, and love into their home. Playful with her dog and cat siblings and full of quirky charm, she keeps life exciting while showing affection to everyone she meets. Whether at community events or on walks, Lulu spreads happiness wherever she goes, making her a perfect Pet Mayor who would brighten the entire Kawartha Lakes community.

Kevin's family knew that Kevin was meant to be part of their family the moment they met him at the Humane Society. Friendly, playful, and full of love, Kevin quickly bonded with everyone and is a great companion to their senior dog, Lucy. With his good manners, leadership, and fun personality, Kevin would make a wonderful Pet Mayor.

Dusti was adopted into her family in September 2024. HSKL described her as timid but that didn't last long. She greets people at the door and she loves to play. She loves to play with a hockey skate lace, be goalie in the mini stick net and play fetch with her pompoms. Dusti deserves to be mayor. She would clawback taxes because they make her furrious. She wants to see change right meow. She is tired of seeing citzens litter outside the box. She would be purrfect for the job.

Sam came into the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes in December and waited patiently for months until March, when someone finally noticed his big smile and gave him a chance.

From the moment he got home, Sam knew he belonged. Full of energy and personality, he quickly took on the role of leader, guiding his family on walks and greeting everyone he meets. He still treasures the stuffie he was given on his first day, keeping it close and even tucking others away in special spots.

Sam is a proud big brother, helping teach his little sister how to be a dog and showing her the ropes. He’s also a dedicated watchdog, making sure everyone who comes to the door is properly checked out. Whether he’s out for a walk downtown or trying to pop into shops to say hello, Sam brings joy everywhere he goes.

In 2019, after joining the Board of the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes Stella's parents soon decided to add a kitten to their cat family. During a visit that June, they fell in love with Stella, who had been brought to the shelter with her two brothers and feral mother from Kinmount. Once ready to leave her mother, Stella joined their home and quickly became part of the family.

Over seven years, Stella has grown into a strong-willed, independent, yet affectionate and playful cat. Known as their “house panther,” she keeps watch over the home, maintains routines, and balances affection and play with remarkable calm, even during vet visits. Her intelligence, composure, and ability to manage competing priorities make her a natural leader, earning her consideration as Pet Mayor of Kawartha Lakes.

Abby (formerly Acorn) is the most lovable cat. She adores cuddling but still likes to stay in charge. When she decides it’s treat time, she’s delightfully persistent and impossible to ignore.

Since coming home, Abby has completely filled the house with unconditional love. She is beautiful, gentle, and incredibly affectionate, and her presence has made her family feel truly complete.

Sunny came to the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes as a scared and shy rescue. After losing her kittens and undergoing major surgery, she had a difficult start, but something about her immediately stood out to the person who would become her family.

Once adopted, Sunny was given her own space to decompress, and it wasn’t long before she felt safe enough to join the rest of the household. Now known as Sunny Hilda, she has grown into an incredibly loving and playful cat. Even at 10 years old, she still loves to play, snuggle, and purr louder than anyone could imagine.

Sunny Hilda is a natural leader and keeps everything in order. She has the dogs trained to move when they’re in her spot, keeps track of mealtimes with perfect timing, and makes sure her toys are right where they belong. She manages it all with a gentle, loving presence that makes her truly special.

Bailey was found on the side of the road by the local MLEO department and transferred to the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes when no one claimed her. Scared and unsure of the world, she needed time and patience to adjust—she didn’t know what a car was, was hesitant to go through doorways, and needed help learning stairs. It was clear she likely came from a puppy mill situation.

Since then, Bailey has blossomed into an incredibly empathetic dog. She senses the emotions in her home and offers love and cuddles when life feels unfair. Friendly and low-key, she greets strangers with a wagging tail, enjoys belly rubs, and keeps other dogs calm. Cautious in new situations, she warms up once she approves of newcomers, and she loves to communicate, responding vocally to conversation.

Bailey is a true “against all odds” survivor, resilient, loving, and intuitive—qualities that would make her a remarkable Pet Mayor.

After being inherited into her current family, she quickly became the heart of the home. Full of love and personality, this little dog has completely stolen everyone’s hearts, life just wouldn’t be the same without her!

After losing their Border Collie, Lady's family found her on HSKL's website and after coming in to meet her and spending a short time playing with her, her family felt she would be a perfect fit for their lifestyle. Within half an hour, Lady was fostered, and within two weeks, she officially became part of their family.

Originally named Lady, they added “Bug,” and she now happily answers to Lady Bug. She spends winters in Florida and summers in the Kawarthas, travels well, loves everyone, and especially enjoys giving kisses to babies.

Simi is a loving cat with a sassy personality who likes to boss the household dogs around, while also grooming them and napping beside them. When his owner visited the humane society in search of an older cat, a staff member was assisting when Simi reached out from his cage, grabbing their hair and meowing for attention. In that moment, it felt like he chose them.

Fourteen years later, Simi continues to be an incredible companion who brings laughter every day. The staff had mentioned you can never go wrong with an orange cat, and that has proven true. Adopted from the Kawartha Lakes Humane Society, Simi has been a constant source of joy, and his story is a reminder that every pet deserves a chance.

Dexter was found by a concerned resident who brought him to a veterinarian after noticing he was severely underweight. Once treated, he was taken in by the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes and soon adopted by his new family.

After some formal training, Dexter’s high energy and spirited personality made him a wonderful addition to his home. Even his older dog sister, Harley, who can be a bit particular, has grown to accept him. He has earned the nickname “Velcro” because he follows his family everywhere, always hoping for cuddles.

As a Belgian Malinois, a breed known for loyalty, intelligence, and high energy, Dexter embodies all of these traits and uses them to bring joy to those around him.

Josie was adopted at three years old from the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes and has shown a vibrant personality ever since. She is affectionate and loves to snuggle, enjoys being around people, and isn’t shy about letting her family know when she wants food or a snack. Full of character, she still runs and plays like a much younger cat, even as she approaches 14 years old.

Before being adopted, Josie had a difficult start in life, having been returned to the shelter by previous families who did not treat her well. Since finding her forever home, she has become a loving and devoted companion.

Josie is described as smart, outgoing, and independent, with a strong personality that keeps her household in line. She enjoys doing things her way and isn’t afraid to make the rules, which is why her family believes she would make the perfect Pet Mayor of Kawartha Lakes.

In the summer of 2025, Moose and his six siblings were surrendered to the Kawartha Lakes Humane Society at a very young age, requiring constant care. His future family first saw him in a Facebook post and decided to apply to adopt. When they met the litter, the puppies were full of energy, exploring everything around them. One pup, however, kept returning for cuddles and connection. In that moment, they knew Moose was the one.

Fostered at eight weeks old and soon adopted, Moose has since formed a strong bond with his family. As a shepherd, he is loyal, watchful, and always close by, with a special soft spot for his mom. Intelligent and eager to learn, he has quickly picked up training skills, even figuring out how to unlock his crate. With his gentle, compassionate nature, Moose shows all the qualities of a caring and devoted community leader.

After losing their cat Zoey at 18, the household felt too quiet, prompting a visit to the shelter. There, they met Cobweb, a black cat named for being taken in around Halloween. After surgery on both eyes, only one could be saved, earning him the name One Eyed Jack.

Full of energy and mischief, he moves at lightning speed and quickly claims favorite spots, including the sofa. Though not especially cuddly, he enjoys sleeping on the recliner between his owner’s husband’s legs, which he rules as his throne. Following the family closely and keeping them on their toes, One Eyed Jack has brought immense joy and character to their home.