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Paws cause draws dogs

SPCA Paws for a Cause fundraiser draws both two and four-legged supporters
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Janice Booth’s yellow lab

Community Park in Parksville went to the dogs Sunday as the SPCA held their annual Paws for a Cause fundraiser.

The event, the biggest fundraiser for the shelter, which receives no government funding, was well-attended, both by two-legged and four-legged participants.

Walkers were given words of encouragement by Parksville acting mayor Chris Burger and Qualicum Beach councillor Mary Brouilette before honorary parade marshal Phil St. Luke led a parade of dog owners on a tour along the beach and through town.

 

“In Qualicum Beach and area we are all dog-lovers,” Brouilette said.

She also thanked the many volunteers who helped put the event together.

Burger’s comments echoed that theme and he thanked everyone for not only being there, but for caring.

“Who else can speak for the animals?” he asked.

At press time, organizers were still tallying up the totals, but Garda Rowe conceded the number of participants and the total they were able to raise was down this year, although she couldn’t say by how much.

“They are talking about a ballpark figure of about raising $10,000 this year,” she said. “I think that’s down from last year, but it seems all the events this year are down.”

However, Rowe said the still significant number of dog owners and other participants enjoyed themselves in Sunday’s spectacular weather and the number of additional games and demonstrations on tap resulted in people sticking around longer than in the past.

In particular, the popular bobbing for wieners event drew many laughs, as the participants strained at their leashes to get at the tasty treats and, when finished, to see if there was anything left in the bowl next door.

“It was a successful event with a lot of enthusiasm,” Rowe said. “The Paws n’ Wheels group certainly put on an entertaining show.”

The next fundraiser for the SPCA will be the annual book sale and flea market, slated for Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 at Wembley Mall.