This is the new (human) face of Windsor-Essex's humane society amid turmoil

Lynnette Bain says she's always had a soft spot for animals since she was five years old and rescued her first cat.

The 13-year veteran of Tourism Windsor-Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) officially takes over as boss of the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society Nov. 11.

"Currently in my house, I have three dogs and a cat, and we have eight horses," said Bain. "My home has graced many different animals from rabbits and hamsters — you name it.

Lynnette Bain worked for TWEPI for 13 years. This will be her first job involving animal care. (Jacob Barker/CBC)

Bain says she's looking forward to dealing with more exotic animals like snakes, and has experience dealing with them because of tourism relationships with Point Pelee.

"I know that's a little scary. My husband does not like snakes, but I actually really do."

The humane society CEO's seat has been vacant since Melanie Coulter was fired under mysterious circumstances in July after nearly 16 years in the role.

A reason for Coulter's dismissal hasn't been made public, and Bain doesn't think it ever will.

"Usually there's agreements signed in these situations, it's when this happens," she said.

Melanie Coulter was let go in the summer after 16 years at the helm of the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society. (Chris Ensing/CBC)

"There are those non-disclosure [agreements] … but I don't think that there's any crazy story to be told here. I think it's about moving in a new direction and having a leader that the board is willing wanting to stand behind and move the organization forward."

Changes to the board and its power have also taken place since the move at the top was made.

Following what's been described as drama surrounding the humane society's board, Bain says transparency will be key for the organization moving forward.

"I think it's more about reassurance and providing that security and that safe place. It's that old anecdote about the rearview mirror being smaller than the windshield for a reason."

According to Bain, as an incoming leader to an organization that's undergoing recent scrutiny, it's her priority to come in and listen.

"There's been a lot … in the media that's been going on lately, and I think the staff and volunteers who have been working so hard … really need some support and someone to listen to them and take that feedback and come back with a plan that's going to sustain the agency well into the future."

The local humane society has been without a full-time leader since July. (Darrin Di Carlo/CBC)

The local humane society turns 100 years old in 2026, she says, and she intends on building off of its history in the community.

"I have great experience in building relationships in the community and partnerships with stakeholders and municipal leaders. And I think that's where my strength will come in handy, able to build some bridges and build those relationships."

A cat looks out of its cage at an Ontario humane society. (Toronto Humane Society/Facebook)

Bain says aside from the humane society's reputation, she's identified the area's large cat population as their biggest challenge with the area "bursting at the seams" due to long warm seasons and a lack of space.

"That's definitely a priority, making sure that we have the capacity and the tools to be able to deliver the services that we need to. I mean, over 15,000 animals pass through those doors between the clinic and the shelter annually."

Bain says financially speaking the organization is in good shape and is currently not facing a deficit.