Considering Membership with the Ontario Association of Canine Rescues?

The Ontario Association of Canine Rescues (OACR) is a collaborative network of dog rescues committed to ethical, transparent, and responsible rescue practices across Ontario.

Key Information About OACR

• OACR is not an accreditation body, nor is it a governing or policing authority.

• The association was incorporated in 2024 and officially launched on January 1, 2026.

• Founding members have worked collaboratively with fellow rescues, legal professionals, and industry partners for over three years to ensure the association was built on a strong, sustainable foundation.

• The Code of Ethics and Operations serves as the cornerstone of the association and reflects best practices in canine rescue.

• Membership is entirely voluntary and may be withdrawn at any time.

• Member rescues may display the OACR Partner Logo, signifying a commitment to uphold the association’s Code of Ethics.

• OACR was formed to promote consistent standards in canine rescue operations.

• The association was created in response to growing concerns around unethical practices, lack of financial accountability, and inadequate housing, veterinary care, and overall welfare of dogs in some rescue settings.

Membership Process

• The first step to joining OACR is completing the membership application, available here:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdJUZSsFt5Kyf42L9EdrI3498yfr56gV97mrBQXzii0YEBkvg/viewform

• The application includes a series of questions directly aligned with OACR’s Code of Ethics and Operations.

• Veterinary and rescue references will be verified.

• Proof of insurance is mandatory for all member rescues.

Governance & Structure

• Our first members’ meeting will take place Sunday, January 25th via Zoom.

• OACR is currently in the process of adding arm’s-length board members.

• A steering committee will be established in the near future to support growth and strategic direction.

Member Engagement & Growth

• Our initial goal following launch was to assess interest in forming an association, and we are pleased to report that the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

• Benefits of membership include (but are not limited to):

• Mentorship and peer support

• Advocating for animal welfare reforms

• Collaboration among rescues

• Educational opportunities such as seminars and guest speakers

• Topics will include becoming a registered charity, behaviour, compassion fatigue, and more

• We have already hosted our first educational session with Dr. Scott Weese, with many more planned

• As the association grows, member involvement will be essential. Opportunities will include:

• Helping organize educational events

• Website development

• Grant writing

• Committee participation

• Contributing new ideas and initiatives.

Public & Professional Accountability

• OACR will establish a confidential hotline for the public, veterinarians, and other rescues to report concerns anonymously.

• All submissions will be reviewed and referred to the Code of Ethics Committee, composed of members from within the association.

• Failure to adhere to the Code of Ethics and Operations may result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from the association.