Shapovalov Partners with Ontario SPCA as Part of Shapo Shelter Initiative

Shapovalov’s initiative, through his organization Shapo Shelter, is to help animals find their forever homes, giving them a chance to have a great life.

“Over the years I’ve heard so many cruel stories about animals that were so helpless,” the Richmond Hill-native said on ShapoShelter.com. “I have a huge love for animals and have always wanted to do more to help give back to the ones that aren’t as lucky.”

Shapo Shelter partners with many shelters around the world and, ahead of the 2025 National Bank Open, Shapovalov met with Bolt as part of a collaboration with Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. 

Bolt is a two-year-old Siberian Husky mix who has been in care for more than 140 days and was previously in between foster homes. He has an autoimmune condition but it can be managed and doesn’t affect his quality of life. Bolt is fully potty-trained and is great with other dogs when introduced properly.

And, of course, he loves to play.

Shapovalov and Bolt had some fun together, playing fetch using Bolt’s favourite toy, tennis balls, and they even predicted who the next Stanley Cup champions will be – it was an answer Shapovalov was very happy with. 

Bolt is available for adoption at the Ontario SPCA York Region Animal Centre in Stouffville and you can find information on him, as well as many other animals available for adoption, here.

Also, as part of Shapovalov’s collaboration with Ontario SPCA, people are invited to “Create a racket” and donate to help animals in need. The world No. 28 autographed plenty of tennis merchandise that can be won by participating in the organization's upcoming charity golf tournament in Uxbridge.

In addition, Shapovalov signed Ontario SPCA’s No Hot Pets pledge which ensures that pets will not be left unattended in a car during these hot summer months. Join Shapovalov and visit NoHotPets.ca to pledge.

Photo Credit: Peter Power/Tennis Canada