INNISFAIL - A continuous stream of family pets have lined up to visit Santa and have their pictures taken with family and the jolly old elf.
The annual Pet Pictures with Santa event took place Dec. 3 at Poplar Grove Veterinary Services in Innisfail.
“It was very busy today, the busiest (picture day) we've had,” said Kelsey Strabel, animal health technician. “We saw about 50 to 70 pets this year.”
The Pet Pictures with Santa has been an annual tradition for about seven or eight years, noted Strabel, and is always a fundraiser for the Innisfail and District Food Bank.
“We ask for a five-dollar cash donation or a (non-perishable) food donation. All proceeds go to the Innisfail and District Food Bank,” she added.
One of the many pet owners who brought their beloved animals to have their picture taken with Santa was Taryn Youse, who brought her two dogs for the first time.
“It's our family picture of the year and I wanted to include the dogs this year,” said Youse, pointing to Roxy and Ribbon.
Dozens of family pets including dogs, cats, puppies, kittens, chickens and even a gecko joined family members for pictures with Santa, noted Strabel.
“We feel it's very important to give back to our community and we like to give back when we can,” she said. “It's a fun way for our clients to help as well.
“It's a lot of fun and it's for a good cause,” said Strabel. “Pets are just as much a part of the family (as everyone else).”
Kelsey Strabel
"We feel it's very important to give back to our community and we like to give back when we can."
