After spending 257 days in the care of the Oakville & Milton Humane Society (OMHS), a gentle and affectionate pit bull-type dog named Bella is finally getting her second chance more than 3,000 kilometres away.
On June 25, Bella flew to Alberta, where she will be placed for adoption through the Calgary Humane Society.
Bella was brought to OMHS in October 2024 after being found as a stray in Oakville. Since then, she has formed strong bonds with staff who describe her as playful, affectionate, and eager to please.
Unfortunately, because of Ontario’s breed-specific legislation, OMHS could not place Bella for adoption within the province. Under the Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA), pit bull-type dogs are banned in Ontario, even if they show no signs of aggression.
“There’s no question Bella will make someone a great pet and companion,” said Jeff Vallentin, executive director, OMHS. “We’re excited to have found this option where she will find a new home outside of our province.”
Thanks to persistence and a personal connection with staff at the Calgary Humane Society, Bella now has a second chance. The partnership began after an OMHS staff member met the Calgary Humane Society team at a holiday market in Alberta and stayed in touch. With our partner rescue group at capacity, OMHS was happy to hear that the Calgary Humane Society could offer Bella a place in their shelter.
Coordinating Bella’s transfer to Calgary was a complex process. Ontario’s breed-specific legislation meant her options for adoption were extremely limited, and finding a shelter outside the province that could take her was no small feat. It took months to find a partner with space to take her, prepare for airline requirements, help Bella adjust to a travel crate, and finalize her transfer to the Calgary Humane Society. These challenges are part of why she remained in our care for so long.
“Bella has been with us for a long time, and during that time, our team has built such a strong bond with her,” said Lisa Bennett, customer care manager, OMHS. “This journey has brought a lot of hope to our staff. Knowing she’s heading to a place where she can finally be adopted into a loving home and have the fresh start she deserves means everything.”
While saying goodbye will be bittersweet for the OMHS team, they are excited for what’s ahead for Bella.
“She’s leaving with a whole team cheering her on,” said Vallentin. “We’re so grateful to the Calgary Humane Society for welcoming her and giving her this opportunity.”