When life takes an unexpected turn, you shouldn’t have to worry about your pet’s safety.
We know this may be a difficult time. The Guelph Humane Society’s Emergency Pet Boarding Program provides temporary care for your pet during a crisis, giving you peace of mind while you focus on recovery and next steps. We’re here to help keep you and your pet together whenever possible.
We know asking for help isn’t always easy. Our team will take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and work with you to find the best solution for you and your pet.
Can This Program Help Me?

The Emergency Boarding Program may be able to help if you:
- Live in Guelph or Wellington County.
- Are experiencing an unexpected emergency or crisis.
- Need temporary care for your pet.
Emergency Boarding is intended for urgent, short-term situations. If you have family, friends, or another trusted option who can care for your pet, we encourage you to explore those first. If not, we’re here to help.
When Emergency Boarding May Be Available
Emergency Boarding may be available in situations such as:
- Hospitalization
- The death of a pet guardian
- A house fire or other environmental emergency
- Police apprehension or custody
- Other urgent situations where temporary pet care is needed
Every situation is unique. Our team will review your situation individually to determine whether this program is the right fit for you and your pet.
What We Provide
Once your pet is in our care, we’ll make sure they receive the attention and support they need while you focus on your recovery or next steps.
Support includes:
- Safe, temporary housing
- Daily feeding and care
- Basic health monitoring
- Preventative veterinary care, including vaccinations and deworming when needed
- Support and planning to help reunite you with your pet whenever possible
Emergency boarding is typically available for up to 72 hours, although every situation is unique.

How It Works
Every situation is different, but here’s what you can expect:
- Reach out to us by phone or email and tell us what’s happening.
- We’ll take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and determine how we can best support you and your pet.
- If this program is the right fit for your situation, we’ll arrange safe, compassionate care for your pet.
- We’ll stay in touch throughout your pet’s stay and work with you to bring you and your pet back together as soon as it’s safe and possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Emergency boarding is typically available for up to 72 hours, although every situation is unique.
No. If needed, we’ll provide preventative veterinary care, including vaccinations and deworming during your pet’s stay.
Need Support?
If you think the Emergency Boarding Program may be able to help, we’d encourage you to get in touch. Our team will listen, answer your questions, and help you determine the best next steps for you and your pet.
Call: 519-824-3091
Email: ghscares@guelphhumane.ca
For Community Partners
If you’re supporting someone experiencing an emergency or crisis, the Emergency Boarding Program may be able to help.
We welcome referrals from hospitals, healthcare providers, emergency services, shelters, social service agencies and other community organizations.
To discuss a referral or determine whether the program is the right fit, please call 519-824-3091 or email ghscares@guelphhumane.ca.
Other Resources
If Emergency Boarding isn’t the right fit, or you need additional support, we may be able to connect you with other community resources, including:
- Boarding facilities
- Veterinary clinics that offer boarding
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- Community shelters
- Healthcare providers
- Community support organizations