A handful of Wellington County veterinarians joined other veterinary staff from around the region on Sept. 20 to raise awareness and funds for the Farley Foundation, an Ontario charity that assists low-income pet owners by subsidizing non-elective veterinary medical care of sick or injured pets.
The annual Summit Veterinary Pharmacy Ride for Farley packs a big punch, raising more than $350,000 in recent years, with $106,000 raised in 2013 alone.
This year’s ride saw 54 cyclists (veterinarians, veterinary staff, veterinary students and pet owners) tackle 50, 100 and 160km routes through the scenic and hilly landscape of southwestern Ontario.
Beginning their day in Milton, the various groups travelled through Halton region and into surrounding areas such as Burlington, Flamborough, Hamilton and Guelph.
Wellington County was well represented, with Dr. Tammy Hunter of Puslinch, her husband Shawn Kraft and client Paul Church hitting the pavement, along with Dr. Jim Fairles of Elora, Carol McIntosh of Arthur and Dr. Mark Gemmill of Rockwood
“The Summit Veterinary Pharmacy Ride for Farley is a fun and challenging event that helps fund veterinary care for pets belonging to low-income pet owners,” said Gemmill, veterinarian and president of the Farley Foundation.
“It’s never easy to watch a family pet struggle with an illness or injury, but the experience is exponentially difficult to bear when you can’t afford necessary veterinary care.
“A dog is part of your family for years. It greets you happily at the door every night when you come home, it cuddles with your kids at night … then suddenly he’s sick and the veterinary care can’t be covered by the cheque that barely covers your own food and rent. Knowing that you can’t help your furry friend through his time of need can be outright devastating.”
Since opening its doors in 2002, the Farley Foundation has disbursed over $2.2 million to assist well over 5,500 people and pets in need, including: 3,212 dogs and 2,228 cats.
Support people and pets in need by making a donation at www.farleyfoundation.org.
