In Rupert, people might say it’s raining cats and dogs, but this Sunday at Mariner’s Park, the idiom will ring true more than ever.
The BC SPCA’s Prince Rupert branch will be holding its annual Paws for a Cause fundraising walk this Sunday, Sept. 13 at noon.
In the past, the event has drawn dozens of animal owners and their furry friends to Mariner’s Park and financial fundraising totals have topped $5,000 for each of the past two years.
The Paws for a Cause walk is a three-kilometre trek from the park to Rushbrook Boat Launch and back.
Once the four-legged travellers have finished their walk, a barbecue and many fun games await the participants and their animals with game prizes and door prizes available to be taken home.
Many dogs attend the walk, but Prince Rupert SPCA branch manager Jamey Morris said the offer’s out for all animals who are used to larger crowds and the outdoors.
“If your animal can cope with the surroundings, then by all means [bring them],” Morris said last week.
This year, organizers have a fundraising goal of $6,500.
“I believe last year, we brought in slightly under that, so we’re hoping to beat it,” she added.
Many adoptable pets will also be walking the route and interested potential pet owners can check out the centre’s offerings at spca.bc.ca/adopt.
As of last week, there were approximately 45 animals at the shelter looking for a permanent home.
The Prince Rupert branch is also looking for volunteers for the day of the event.
“If people want to volunteer, they can contact me at the branch and I’d be happy to put them into different roles. We need people to take registration and just assist with events throughout the day at the walk. In terms of money, we have a website that they can donate money online or they can bring funds too on the day of the event,” said Morris.
To donate or register for the walk, visit the BC SPCA’s website, www.spca.bc.ca/princerupertwalk or visit the branch’s Facebook page, BC SPCA Prince Rupert Branch. Registration will also be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday before the walk.
Proceeds help combat animal cruelty. Last year, the BC SPCA conducted 8,849 new cruelty investigations.
Rupert residents can also help by donating items to the branch.
“We’re always in need of canned food for dogs, cats and kittens – that would be great. Things like kitty litter, dog toys, cat toys – all that stuff is greatly appreciated,” said the manager.