Do you want to be part of the largest fundraising campaign in support of animals in BC? Then join the 2008 Scotiabank & BC SPCA Paws for a Cause Walk for the Animals on Sept. 14. This fun-filled, family event will take place on the Sunshine Coast and in 36 other communities across the province. The Sunshine Coast branch is inviting the community to join them at the shelter at 4376 Solar Rd. in Wilson Creek for the event. Participants are already busy collecting pledges, but it is never too late to start. Stop by any of the local veterinary hospitals or clinics or the shelter to pick up a pledge form. Or download one from the branch website at www.spca.bc.ca/sunshinecoast. No time to collect pledges? You can still participate by paying a registration fee on the day. No dog? Can't borrow one? No worries; the event is not just a leashed dog walk - anyone can join in.
The Sunshine Coast branch is proud to have Tonka and his new best friend Dr. Art Hister host and lead their Paws for a Cause walk. Tonka arrived at the shelter during the summer of 2006 in desperate need of some help. He was covered in fleas and had a skin infection that caused at least 70 per cent fur loss. He also had an aural hematoma that was causing him a great deal of pain in his ear.
Tonka made the Sunshine Coast SPCA his home for six months while he received treatment and recovered. Thanks to the BC SPCA Biscuit Fund, local veterinarians and his new owners, Tonka has made a full recovery and is now living pain free in his new, loving home.
Registration for the walk begins at 11 a.m. (the first 50 participants to register will receive a goodie bag); pre-walk warm-up is at 11:45, and the three-kilometre walk starts at noon. Following the walk, prizes will be awarded for highest pledge collectors. There will be lots of draw prizes, doggie games, face painting, information tables and a barbecue (by donation).
Paws for a Cause is the SPCA's signature campaign. This year's goal is to raise $850,000 across the province for animals in need. All funds raised locally will stay in the community.
In 2007 the BC SPCA rescued nearly 42,000 injured, homeless, neglected and abused farm, companion and wild animals and reunited close to 6,000 lost animals with their families. This annual event is a great way to have some fun and support the work and community service provided by the Sunshine Coast SPCA.
For more information, please see www.spca.bc.ca/sunshinecoast or call the shelter at 604-740-0301.
