Yesterday, Davidsons Country Dining in Big Bay Point Innisfil hosted its inaugural annual 'Christmas in July' pet photo fundraiser for Procyon Wildlife Centre based in Beeton, Ont.
Jennifer Howard, a volunteer and lead on this campaign, wanted to accomplish two goals: raise awareness and raise funds.
"Procyon is a wildlife rehabilitation and education centre," Howard said. "We focus on taking in sick, injured and orphaned wildlife.”
Deputy Mayor Dan Davidson sponsored this event by setting up space adjacent to his restaurant and providing cookies and coffee to everyone attending.
Davidson pointed out, “At this time, Innisfil does not have an animal rescue department. This was dissolved about eight years ago, and we are badly in need of this necessary service."
A petition was available for guests to sign in support of the town adding back an animal service program or department.
For $15 guests were invited to bring their pets to get their photo taken with Santa Claus. This attracted people with dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, rabbits, snakes and more, from all over the region. All proceeds went to Procyon Wildlife.
At the top of the centre's wish list is to buy a $100,000 x-ray machine to help reduce stress for injured animals by providing x-rays in hand as the animals arrive at the National Wildlife Centre under the leadership of veterinarian Dr. Sherri Cox for examination.
To date, approximately $1,800 has been raised.
Next weekend, Ravioli Pet World in Bolton is holding a fundraiser to also help Procyon Wildlife. Special thanks to volunteers David Hutter as Santa and also Angela Vanbreemen as Santa’s assistant.
For further information on Procyon Wildlife, please visit their website here or call (905) 729-0033.
