The Grosvenor Dog Swim’s end-of-summer pool party has always been a hit with pet parents as well as their furry four-legged buddies.
Once again, the splashy meet-up is a perfect way to welcome the fall and enjoy Grosvenor outdoor pool one last time before water is drained for the winter. The puppy get-together runs Monday, Sept. 4 from noon to 2 p.m.
Admission to the charity event is a monetary donation to help support Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS). This 20-year animal shelter offers rescue services for neglected, abandoned and injured pets. Lately it has lately been overwhelmed by dogs and cats needing a new home.
Amanda Annetts, SCARS program coordinator, said that this is the worst year on record for pets needing care. Unfortunately, all animal shelters in the region have capacity issues.
“Just last week we had a request from a northern community in Alberta to take 140 dogs and cats. We couldn’t because we were full up. We have a couple of hundred foster homes, but they’re full up and we’re always looking for more foster homes,” she said.
The stressors causing the shortage are numerous ranging from lower donations, inflation, a faltering economy and disasters to a province-wide shortage of veterinarians.
“We don’t adopt an animal unless it is spayed, neutered and micro-chipped. With lower donations, it makes it harder,” said Annetts.
SCARS also accepts new and/or gently used pet-related items. For a complete wish list of donation items, visit the SCARS website at www.scarscare.ca
No public swimming is allowed during the pool party. Pet parents are reminded to bring clean up bags to the pool at 1 Grenfell Ave.
