Pickering is inviting members of the public and their pets to strike their best pose, and put their best foot (and paw!) forward.
The aim is to support fundraising goals of a long-awaited permanent animal shelter, an announcement said.
The city, in partnership with Pamela Johnston Photography and Arts Unleashed, is hosting a Valentine’s Day-inspired photo shoot, with all donations going towards the new animal shelter.
Who: Members of Council, City of Pickering Animal Services staff, Public & Pets
What: Indoor Professional Pet Photo Session (Fundraiser)
Visitors can participate with or without pets.
A minimum donation of $15 is required.
Where: Arts Unleashed (376 Kingston Rd. Unit 7)
Parking and entrance is accessible at the back of the plaza.
When: Saturday, February 1, 2020
2 pm to 4 pm
City Council has prioritized this initiative and recently appointed City Councillor Ward 2, Ian Cumming as project lead, to spearhead fundraising efforts for the new shelter.
“The City’s December ‘Santa Paws’ photo session raised over $900 to help some of the most vulnerable animals in our community,” said Councillor Cumming. “It is inspiring to witness the tremendous passion and generosity of our residents, and I encourage you to stay tuned to our website and social media to learn more about our plans for Responsible Pet Ownership month, taking place in May.”
The city has over $5 million in development charges earmarked for the new Animal Shelter, and over $670,000 in reserves and funds raised through the generosity of the community. Staff will also be exploring other revenue generating streams to help meet its target, including naming rights agreements and sponsorships.
Permanent animal shelter
Ultimately, the funds will go towards the construction of a brand new, permanent animal shelter in Pickering. Staff are currently undertaking a site selection process and anticipate construction to begin in 2021, pending final council budget approval.
The new shelter will be larger, and allow for improved animal care and welfare. It will be able to accommodate more cats and dogs and will have a designated space for smaller animals such as rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs. It will also have a separate nursery to care for infant, abandoned or orphaned animals, as presently the only option is to house them with the general population, potentially exposing them to illness.
In addition, the shelter will include indoor and outdoor kennels for dogs, as well as a program area for educational purposes.
Visitors will receive a link to access all event photos online, and can download their individual photos directly from the website. Print and other options will be available through the photographer’s website, and funds received will not be part of the City’s official fundraising initiative.
Please have all dogs on-leash and other animals in crates. Cash and debit/visa will be accepted and tax receipts will be issued for donations over $20.