Can you lend a helping paw to an animal friend in need this month?
Wetaskiwin’s Pet Valu store makes it super-easy!
April is Pet Appreciation Month at Pet Valu stores across Canada, but the event has a special place in the hearts of the Wetaskiwin Mall team.
In addition to the friendly fundraising competition between the nation’s Pet Valu stores, the event raises vital awareness and funds for local pet-focused charities.
The key for Wetaskiwin’s team is the local impact. Collections raised this April support two Central Alberta pet organizations: Animal Haven Rescue, working with cats and dogs in Stettler, and Heart Prints Dog Rescue Society, serving the Leduc-Beaumont area.
With two charities to benefit, the Wetaskiwin team aims to double their best-ever tally of $4,000 and bring in $8,000 this year!
Both organizations are fully volunteer-run, including many animal “foster families” who support the animals out of their own pocket while they await adoption, notes Brandy Pfeil, Promotions Coordinator for the Westaskiwin Mall.
“It’s all about giving back to the local community, and we’re excited to help,” Pfeil says.
Here’s how you can lend a paw:
- During April, Pet Valu shoppers can purchase a paper “paw” at the check-out for either $2, 5 and $10 or another amount of your choosing – 100 per cent of the profits go to the charities for essentials like vet bills, food and rescue costs. “Every little bit helps. If you can only contribute $1 or $2, that will be very much appreciated,” Pfeil says.
- From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 13, 20 and 27, the Mall and Pet Valu will be hosting charity barbecues – for $5 enjoy a hamburger or hotdog, a drink and chips. “We’re covering the cost of all the supplies, so all money raised will go to the rescues,” Pfeil says.
- The month-long festivities finish with National Adoption Weekend April 26 to 28, when from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, volunteers from various local pet organizations will be on-hand to answer questions and have a “meet-and-greet” with some of their pets.
“It should be really fun and we’re thrilled to bring some attention to the work these volunteers and organizations are doing,” Pfeil says.
To learn more, stop by your local Pet Valu at the Wetaskiwin Mall, or call them at 780-352-0265.