Families and their dogs crowded at the ?rst-ever Christmas fundraiser for Dog Haven on Friday (Nov. 23).
The event was designed to help raise money for Christmas Care and Canine Valley, Squamish's local non-profit canine behaviourist.
"We are raising money for Canine Valley, a non-pro?t charity that educates dogs and their owners through psychology, and to rescue dogs," said Valley Calderoni of Canine Valley. "We had a rescue dog here named Nemoy, an 18-month-old bulldog who we had rehabilitated. He then got sick and unfortunately passed away. We now have a large vet bill that we have to pay. That's part of the reason we are having this fundraiser tonight."
Staff from the Squamish Veterinary Hospital was also at the event, selling and explaining their views on medicine and food for dogs. All sales of their products were donated to the charity.
"Valley has always had a passion for dogs. She took up biology in university, had a passion for animals and then eventually found her way to the dog. Every dog she interacts with instantly shares a strong connection with her," said Gabby Villalpando, a longtime volunteer for Canine Valley.
"Our organization is totally run on donations," added Desi Schlapbach, dog behaviour apprentice student. "Valley is also an ambassador for Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer. When we went to Abbotsford to see him, we talked to Cesar and explained what Dog Haven does. He says he wants to be a part of our organization more and that he was interested in what we do. We also offer a daily boarding program for dogs that have previously been in our rescue."
Michelle Marlatt, another Canine Valley volunteer, said the dogs they help out are worth the effort.
"We usually have around six rescue dogs, with very different backgrounds," she said. "Some stay permanently here with us. We do behaviour modi?cations, all non-pro?t. People need to understand that dogs don't all come from the best backgrounds, but that rescue dogs are still great dogs with good personalities."
Dogs and their owners lined up to take pictures with Santa. While waiting they could bid on a silent auction, with prizes donated by different businesses in our community. The event was deemed a success, with more $1,000 raised for the two groups.
For more information on Canine Valley, visit www.caninevalley.com.
