Virden Animal Hospital staff and Santa Claus welcomed a variety of four-legged friends and their owners to the annual “Pet Pictures With Santa” fundraiser held at the clinic on Nov. 4, where 32 animals, including cats, dogs, a rabbit and a pony, took their turn with photographer Kennedy Cadieux and Jolly Old St. Nick. There were fewer participants than last year due to adverse weather and road conditions.
100 per cent of the money raised is being donated to two area families with medical needs. David McLean is undergoing treatments for Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP) and unable to work. Shannon Campbell, who has Crohn’s Disease and ankylosing spondylitis, has experienced complications due to contracting COVID-19 which has amplified her auto-immune diseases.
Christmas pet bandanas and bow ties, crafted by Margaret James of Elkhorn, are now available at the Virden Animal Hospital, with 25 per cent of the proceeds going to McLean and Campbell. Monetary and food hamper donations are being accepted until Dec. 8.
