SPCA manager Wendy Trombley retires after 42 years of service
January 14, 2026 at 4:22 AM
After 42 years at the Fort Erie SPCA, manager Wendy Trombley has retired, closing one of the longest tenures in the organization’s history. Trombley announced her retirement this month after more than four decades overseeing daily operations, animal care and community outreach at the shelter.
Trombley joined the Fort Erie SPCA in 1984 and spent her career guiding the organization through changes in animal welfare standards, growth in services and expanding community demand.
During her tenure, Trombley helped shape the shelter into a cornerstone service for Fort Erie residents, with the SPCA estimating she assisted tens of thousands of animals over four decades. Credit: Fort Erie SPCA | Instagram“Working at the Fort Erie SPCA has been far more than a job, it has been a calling,” Trombley told Fort Erie Radio. “Over the years, I have had the privilege of helping animals in need, supporting their families, and working alongside some truly compassionate and dedicated people.”
Trombley spoke to Fort Erie Radio last October and reflected on both the difficulty of running the SPCA, which is only kept in operation with volunteers and community donations, but also gratitude at the generosity the shelter has received.
“We’re really fortunate for adoptions in this area,” she said. “Fort Erie is very generous, and they support our shelter, so we’re very lucky.”
The Fort Erie SPCA credits Trombley with steady leadership and advocacy for animals, staff and volunteers, as well as playing a key role in launching the organization’s veterinary clinic.
“Her commitment to the animals in our care has been unwavering,” the SPCA said in a written statement. “Day in and day out, she has shown what it means to lead with heart and has always advocated for those without a voice, supporting staff and volunteers through every challenge, and ensuring that the shelter remained a place of care, safety, and integrity.”
The shelter stated that Trombley’s influence will continue through ongoing adoptions, animal care and services delivered in Fort Erie.
“As I step into retirement, I do so with gratitude, cherished memories, and confidence in the continued care and commitment of those who carry this important work forward,” said Trombley.
The Fort Erie SPCA currently has five dogs and 14 cats available for adoption, with day-to-day operations continuing under existing staff and volunteers as the organization plans its next leadership steps.
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Andrew Hawlitzky
Andrew is a Niagara community journalist who has covered everything from local politics to annual festivals and breaking news. He works to make local news a platform where community voices lead the conversation. "If you don't like the news, go out and make some!"
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