The B.C. SPCA in Nanaimo is close to hitting its mark in the Lock-In for Love fundraiser.
The event took place Saturday, June 14 at the B.C. SPCA's Westwood Road shelter in Nanaimo and saw participants being locked in a room with an animal while they attempted to reach their target with money raised assisting animals in care – fundraising began May 28.
Cyndie Courneyea, had a goal of $500, raising money because she loves dogs and "would do anything to give them a better life and get them homed."
She told the News Bulletin dogs are "actually… much better than people" and has 18-years' experience as a dog trainer. She is familiar with the Nanaimo branch and likes the work it does.
“Twelve years ago there was a litter of puppies that was born here that I had aided in rescuing the mother dog and brought her here. She was pregnant. She had 13 puppies, and I wound up adopting one of the puppies (Emma)," Courneyea said, which is still healthy.
Larry Carter and wife Karel were with dog Annie and surpassed their goal of $4,000 while locked up. They have a rescue cat, Zara, at home and the two were wanted to support the local animal welfare group.
"We're so thankful for everything that SPCA does for animals in need and animals in situations where they need care, and it's wonderful that they're there for them – terrific service," said Karel.
As of 2 p.m. on June 14, approximately $13,000 had been raised, closing in on the goal of $14,000, Bonnie Pequin, Nanaimo and district community animal centre branch manager, said.
The event builds bonds with people and animals, she said.
"It brings the community together,” said Pequin. “We see what it is like to sit in the kennel, and it's just like a day in the life of a dog in a kennel."
