Heather Latter
Despite the cold, windy, and rainy weather, the annual “Purina Walk for Dog Guides” here Sunday afternoon, organized by the Fort Frances Voyageur Lions Club, ended up being a success.
The event, which is held across Canada to raise funds for the five dog guide training programs at the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides (Canine Vision, Hearing Ear, Special Skills, Seizure Response, and Autism Assistance), brought in $861 in individual pledges and will be topped off by the club to contribute a total of $1,000 to the cause.
The fundraiser saw seven pledged participants walk along the waterfront from Pither’s Point Park and back.
“We had seven brave souls who came out despite the weather,” noted Gaby Hanzuk.
“We really appreciate them coming out in such miserable weather.”
“The dogs have to walk no matter what,” reasoned Val Martindale.
The top individual fundraisers this year were Emily Jerry ($165), Melissa McPherson ($160), and Clifford Hatfield ($130).
There were a few walkers without a dog or sharing a dog. Another dog came out for the event, but at 15 years was unable to take part in the walk, so her owners completed it without her.
“We were pleased to see walkers of various ages and families walking,” Hanzuk remarked.
This was the Voyageur Lions Club’s seventh year for hosting a dog walk in Fort Frances. And while each year has been successful, they are discussing some changes for next year’s event.
Instead of Pither’s Point Park being the starting point, they may change the location to the Sorting Gap Marina.
“Maybe a more central location will entice more people to come out,” Hanzuk noted
And several walkers were delayed Sunday by trains at the Pither’s Point Park crossing.
Still, those who attended were happy to support the cause, which to date has allowed more than 1,700 Canadians to receive a dog guide at no cost because of the dedication of walk organizers, donors, and participants.
“Everyone involved with the Purina Walk for Dog Guides plays an important role in providing dog guides to Canadians with medical and physical disabilities,” said Sandy Turney, executive director, Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides.
“It is amazing to see how communities come together to offer such incredible support.”
And at least one local walker volunteered to help organize next year’s event.
“We just thank everyone for coming out and we hope to see them next year,” Bill Michl added.
Each participate received a loot bag and gift certificates, and other prizes also were handed out.
