Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the conference?
The Summit for Animals is an annual event in a different location each year. In 2025, the conference will be held at the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth April 27 to 29, in Montréal, Québec.
In what language does the conference take place?
The Summit for Animals will offer sessions in English. Elements of the French language and Québec will be incorporated into the event in other areas.
I am interested in speaking, what should I do?
Unfortunately, the call for speakers is now closed. We appreciate your interest in speaking at the Summit for Animals and hope to see your application at a future Summit.
When does conference registration open and the schedule become available?
Registration is now open! See the schedule page for the schedule, we continue to add sessions so don't forget to check back!
What are the registration rates?
Are there any travel discounts available for attendees?
Yes, please visit our Hotel & Travel page for discounts on travel from Air Canada, WestJet, Porter and VIA Rail.
Are there any grants available to attendees?
Yes, please visit our Grants page for information on the Golden Ticket and the McGrand Travel Grant.
What kind of content was offered during past events?
Humane Canada’s Summit for Animals has strived to stay at the forefront of the latest animal welfare trends. Past educational topics have included:
- Access to Care
- Action, advocacy and government relations
- Advocacy and building humane communities
- Advocacy and education
- Alternatives to animal use in research and testing
- Animal ethics
- Animal law and enforcement
- Animal sentience
- Animal welfare and COVID-19
- Animal welfare and human behavioural intersections
- Animals and the law
- Applied animal welfare science
- Build and Innovate
- Canine sheltering and community
- Canine welfare and behaviour
- Cats in Canada
- Challenges to effective legal protection for animals
- Communications and fund development
- Community-supported animal sheltering
- Companion Animals
- Diversity, inclusion and reconciliation
- Education and advocacy
- Enforcement
- Farmed animal welfare
- Feline welfare and behaviour
- Fund development and marketing
- Leadership
- Leadership and management
- Leadership and organizational strength
- New developments in animal welfare
- One health, one welfare
- Operational best practices (governance, fundraising, finance and change management)
- Outreach and engagement
- Protecting vulnerable animals
- Science and research
- Shelter medicine and animal care
- Sheltering for change
- Sheltering in the 21st century
- Standards, guidelines and certification
- Tackling Fatigue & Building Resilience
- The future of sheltering
- Volunteer Management and Engagement
- Wild and Farmed Animals
- Wildlife welfare
Does the conference offer any Carbon Offset Programs?
Montréal tourism offers a Carbon Offset Program to counterbalance the carbon emissions associated with travel and event activities. These initiatives support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as reforestation and renewable energy projects.
To take part in this initiative you can use the calculator to see your carbon footprint for your trip to Montréal. You can then choose to donate to help offset your carbon footprint following the Summit.
Where can I learn more about the event organizer, Humane Canada?
To learn more about Humane Canada visit our website. If you have additional questions please reach out to info@humanecanada.ca.
Are shelter tours available during the Summit?
Yes! The Montreal SPCA team is looking foward to welcoming shelter tour attendees and sharing best practises to continue learning, sharing, and advancing together. Click here to reserve your spot today! Space per tour is limited.
Is there a social networking event this year?
Yes! Soirée Rendez-vous, co-hosted by Montréal SPCA is the social networking event at this years Summit for Animals.
Join us for a memorable evening co-organized by the Montreal SPCA, who is proud to be Humane Canada’s host-city partner for this year’s Summit for Animals!
The social will take place in a stunning venue that perfectly reflects Montréal’s creativity and embodies the “City of 100 Steeples” theme, borrowed from the Mark Twain quote. We are excited to welcome colleagues from across Canada at Le Monastère, a church turned multidisciplinary arts centre with a perfect fusion of genres.
Evening highlights
- Delicious, locally sourced appetizers featuring Montréal flavours
- A complimentary signature drink, alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available
- Live music
- A photo booth to capture memorable moments
- Many more surprises!
We look forward to celebrating with you and getting the Summit off to a fabulous start!
Registration is complimentary for all conference attendees, advanced sign-up required.
Is there an attendee delegate pass available?
Unfortunatley, Montréal does not offer a delegate pass, however, there is Passport MTL. This pass offeres an average savings of 35%* on activities and outings when purchased.
Is food being served during the Summit?
Yes, as part of your registration for the Two-day Summit (April 28 and 29) breakfast and lunch is included for both days. Throughout these two days, coffee, tea and snacks will also be available.
As part of your registration for the Learning Labs Day (April 27), lunch is included as well as coffee and tea throughout the day.
Please note that all food served is plant based.
What can I expect as a first-time attendee?
As a first-time attendee, you'll be warmly welcomed from the moment you check in at registration. You'll have access to a dedicated first-time attendee booth, providing all the information you need to maximize your Summit experience. Additionally, you'll receive a special pin to wear, making it easy for fellow newcomers to recognize you.
Is there a conference app?
Yes! The conference app is by EventMobi and can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play Store. Attendees will be notified closer to the event with more details on how to login and gain access to the 2025 Summit for Animals.
Is there a dress code?
There is no dress code when attending the 2025 Summit for Animals. We simply ask that you wear what makes you feel comfortable in a professional environment.