A portion of the funds raised through the recent Betty White Challenge will help the Sarnia and District Humane Society offer some low cost animal wellness clinics.
They're being held February 4 through 6, by appointment only, and will be limited to two pets per household. All of the spaces have been booked, and there are dozens on the waiting list.
Executive Director Donna Payette said they'll have 30 volunteers on hand over the weekend, tending to around 400 dogs and cats.
"With COVID and the huge adoptions and purchases of pets over this whole pandemic, vet clinics have been stretched and strained with a lot of new clients and some have had to stop taking new clients. Even looking at the climate in regards to finances and the hardships that have befallen a lot of people through this, it didn't surprise us that it would be an overwhelming need."
Payette said the wellness clinics include a basic vet exam, vaccinations, deworming treatment, and microchip for $20 per animal. She said they're looking to offer a low cost spay and neuter clinic, details will be released at a later date.
The community helped the humane society raise over $27,000 on January 17, on what would have been Betty White's 100th birthday.
"We really wanted to give some of that back," said Payette. "Betty White was known for her work and her care and compassion with animal welfare. Her whole premise was to be kind to animals and that includes all animals. We really saw it as a great opportunity to give back to the community that has supported us so well over the years."
White, a beloved actress and animal advocate, died on December 31, 2021.
To get onto the waiting list, call 519-344-7064 ext. 4 or visit www.sarniahumanesociety.com.
-With files from Natalia Vega
