Markham Animal Adoption and Education Centre (MAAEC)
The former Cat Adoption and Education Centre is now the Markham Animal Adoption and Education Centre (MAAEC) so that animals, other than cats, can be adopted into loving homes. Located at the Thornhill Community Centre and Library (7755 Bayview Ave, Thornhill), the MAAEC operates in partnership with the Ontario SPCA. It is the first municipally funded adoption storefront in Ontario and works to reduce euthanasia rates in York Region.
Since opening in 2016, the MAAEC has helped find new homes for more than 1200 animals, welcomed approximately 60,000 visitors, hosted countless community events and logged over 3,000 volunteer hours.
Still in partnership with the Ontario SPCA, the MAAEC is open on dedicated dates for adoption events. Appointments are not required for these events, please just drop in! Additionally, keep an eye out for education events and other exciting pet adoption news.
Interested in joining our Reading Therapy Program? Send the Ontario SPCA an email (yorkregion@ontariospca.ca)
View all available animals for adoption through the Ontario SPCA
2025 Adoption Events
The events below operate between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
- Saturday, January 17 and Sunday, January 18, 2026
- Saturday, February 21 and Sunday, February 22, 2026
Saturday, March 21 and Sunday, March 22, 2026