Burlington Humane Society - Burlington, Ontario

Gina V.

This shelter committed fraud through the theft of our beloved Jack under false pretenses.

We discovered Jack in our backyard about two weeks prior to Halloween. Since he was orange and it was close to Halloween, we named him Jack (for Jack o' Lantern). We realized that he may be a lost cat because he kept visiting us each day and sleeping under our patio furniture. He was a beautiful, affectionate guy who was in good health. We sheltered him, bathed (got sprayed by a skunk), and fed him, played with him, and got very attached to him.

But before taking him to the vet to have him checked out, we wanted to ensure he didn't belong to another family. As such, I posted his description on lost pet sites and through our neighbourhood facebook group. I let that settle for about a week, but received no follow-ups. After another week, the guilt was still getting to me so I decided to go to the BHS to see whether he was microchipped.

My kids pleaded with me not to take him to the BHS but I reassured them that Jack will be back. When I arrived a lady emerged and I explained that I'm trying to confirm whether Jack as another owner and to see if he's microchipped. The lady tried to locate it but couldn't find one. So as a next step, she suggested that the BHS advertise through their various lost pets platforms to get a wider search. But they said they could only do that if Jack was on-site in case the owners came to claim him. I was absolutely not comfortable with this especially after telling my kids he would be coming back home. I felt pressured to do the right thing and be absolutely certain no other family was desperately searching for him. So I made the lady guarantee that BHS would contact me in five days if Jack's previous family did or did not claim him. For their records, I completed adoption papers so that they would have all my contact information where they could reach me when it was time to bring him back home. With a heavy heart, I entrusted the BHS to keep Jack safe and keep me apprised on the situation.

Nevertheless, I followed-up with the BHS almost on a daily basis to get an update on how he was doing and whether they heard anything. After the five days with no claim, they said he can be adopted and that we can pick him up right after he gets his check-up with their vet tech and Jack's blood test results are received. I was told the tests would be done on a Friday and the results back on the Monday. So I waited the weekend and called back on the Monday - my birthday. The receptionist then told me that Jack had already been adopted! I thought I was going to pass out from that news. How could they give our cat away?!! They were supposed to keep him safe!! And they lied and told me they were waiting for blood test results. I was heartbroken!

So when my children came off the school bus, I picked them up without saying anything. They got the feeling we were finally going to pick up Jack. When we arrived at the BHS with my children, I asked them "Where's Jack?" I wanted them to explain to my children that the BHS people took our pet and gave him away never to be seen again. They were absolutely devastated and broke out crying. When I dug deeper into uncovering who took him, the receptionist told me it was the same vet tech that did his health examination. How incredibly corrupt and deceitful this organization is?!

We entrusted this shelter to help us confirm whether Jack's previous family was out searching for him, and whether he rightfully belonged with us. I did not visit the BHS to have him ripped away from us so dishonestly. If I knew this is how they operate, I should have went with my gut instinct and returned home with him. We will never forget our Jack and the kids still very much miss him. This has certainly taught my children one terrible lesson in life...sometimes it's not in our best interest to do the right thing.

Colin S.

What a wonderful shelter.

We adopted our cat from this shelter. The staff were very friendly and thoughtful. They took time to understand our situation and what kind of personality we wanted for our cat. Their first suggestion was exactly what we were looking for. Kudos to the staff for their attention to detail.

I'm very happy that this BHS exists and very appreciative of the hard working staff. Absolutely wonderful people doing an amazing job.

I would recommend this shelter to anyone looking for a new pet to add to their family.

Roja D.

I adopted two wonderful cats BHS four years ago, and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The staff at the shelter were incredibly thoughtful, patient, and supportive throughout the entire process. They took the time to understand my needs and match me with the perfect pair of furry companions.
The adoption process was smooth and transparent, and I could tell they truly cared about the well-being of the animals. They provided helpful advice and made sure I was well-prepared to bring my new pets home.
My cats have brought so much love and joy into my life, and I’m so grateful to the shelter for making this possible.

Sharon S.

Had a pleasant experience walking into the Burlington Humane Society to donate pet items. I was delightfully greeted by wonderful reception staff. So very welcoming and compassionate. I would definitely consider adopting and or donating to this organization.

Staycation G. O. S. A. (. B. R.

Wonderful staff and mission to care for animals in need. I am blessed to foster with them when in country.

Lisa K.

Another bad review. They deserve it. I've visited 5 times now hoping to adopt a cat. They won't let you see the cats without filling out an application. Incredibly rude staff each and every time. It's like they don't want the cats to be adopted. Go somewhere else.

Lydia D.

People who work here were very friendly and they are very knowledgeable and they really care about the animals. It was really fun and nice and a little heartbreaking seeing all these beautiful 🐈 looking and waiting for their forever home and now me and my boyfriend are going home with our beautiful Adagio. Thanks for helping us and thanks for being so nice.

* Over a year later, Adagio is the cutest, playful cat. Yes he gets over stimulated sometimes, but who doesn't right? We love him so much ❤️

Devan S.

Came in today in tears looking to speak with someone about rehoming my dog, which is already incredibly difficult, and was handed a slip of paper with contacts for cat rescues. The woman didn’t even look at me. Didn’t think I could feel any worse today but she found a way to make that happen.