A fundraiser is set to be held in Red Deer that will help pet owners who can't afford to pay for their animals to undergo cancer treatments.
The 11th Annual Spring Dog Wash, put on by the Animal Cancer Therapy Subsidization Society (ACTSS) will take place on Aug. 14.
Participating groomers in Red Deer include Doggie Doo and Kitties Too (self serve location), 4 Paws Dog Daycare and Grooming and Bark Avenue.
"Three Red Deer dog groomers are teaming up with three Calgary dog groomers in hopes of raising more money than six participating dog groomers in Edmonton," said Daralynn Swensrude, fundraising coordinator for ACTSS. "It's quite the competition."
All of the groomers involved volunteer their time and facilities during the fundraiser. Every penny raised goes towards ACTSS.
"We are extremely grateful to the local groomers who have come on board," said Swensrude. "Grooming is not easy. It's a really hard job and I give them a lot of credit."
Last year's Spring Dog Wash raised $8,000.
"This is one of our organization's largest fundraisers so it's really important," said Swensrude. "Every dollar really counts."
ACTSS specifically fundraises to help people in Alberta who can't pay for cancer treatments for their animals.
"We aren't just limited to helping those with cats and dogs," said Swensrude. "Basically, our mandate is to help out any animal that can have a bond with a human. We recently helped out a ferret and we've gotten inquiries about helping horses as well."
She added the organization, which was established about 12 years ago, plays an important role for Albertans.
"To have to let a pet go because of monetary means is a blow to you," said Swensrude.
For more information on the fundraiser or to donate to the cause visit www.actss.ca.
To book an appointment to have your dog groomed for the fundraiser on Aug. 14 call Doggie Doo and Kitties Too at 403-346-4633, 4 Paws Dog Daycare and Grooming at 403-342-0085 or Bark Avenue at 403-358-3649.
"We really encourage people to come out and have their dog groomed for this fundraiser," said Swensrude. "While your pet is getting cleaned, you're also helping out another animal."
