A local rescue organization is looking for help as the need for foster and adoptive homes for cats and dogs continues to climb in Milton, Ontario. Second Chance Sanctuary, which is currently building its operations and community initiatives, is actively seeking new volunteers to provide temporary care or permanent homes for animals in need.
The Second Chance Sanctuary was started by 13-year-old Isla MacMillan as a passion project to give animals a better future. The sanctuary is currently expanding its systems and is welcoming new volunteers to sign up through its online portal.
This call for support comes as animal rescues across the province face increasing pressure. According to the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, there was a 17 per cent rise in surrender requests from 2024 to 2025. This trend is largely driven by financial strains on families, including the rising cost of living, housing instability, and the expense of veterinary care.
While the Humane Society of Oakville, Milton & Halton (HSOMH) serves as the primary animal welfare organization for the area, they are currently managing their resources as they work toward a major facility expansion. The Town of Milton provides animal control services, such as picking up stray animals and enforcing dog licensing, but does not operate a shelter for adoptable pets.
As part of its efforts to support its rescue mission, the sanctuary is planning a charity event later this year called Stars for Second Chances.
