Arthur the 5 year old Poodle mix is one of a few pets that Valley Animal Rescue is looking to find a forever home for. (Elora Knoll/Navi K9 photo)
Every dollar matters when it comes to finding a forever home for local pets.
Valley Animal Rescue, a Renfrew-based operation relying on a network of foster homes across the Ottawa Valley, is taking a break from taking in new animals after the winter fundraising lull put a strain on their budget.
Their coordinator for dog adoptions, Sharon Shalla, says the move was not unexpected as they recognize the community is feeling the pinch in uncertain economic times.
It’s a difficult decision to make, and they push hard to take care of as many pets as they can, but she says their commitment has to be to ensuring that the animals already in the system are looked after.
Shalla is reassuring the community that Valley Animal Rescue is not going anywhere and is not closing. In fact, a few other rescues in the area are doing the same thing to balance their desire to help as many pets as possible while also being sensible about their checkbooks.
VAR has put the call out to their supporters for assistance ahead of their usual summer fundraising efforts like barbeques, walk-a-thons, and garage sales, and even a little donation makes a huge difference.
Cash donations can be made in person with a VAR volunteer or by mailing them to Animal Rescue, Box 214, Renfrew, ON K7V 4A3. You can also donate to their general dogs and cats fund through CanadaHelps, by e-transfer, or through PayPal.
(written by Kasey Egan)
