These paws were made for walking | Orcas APS fundraiser

By Colleen Smith • August 10, 2021 1:30 am

Clip on your dog’s leash, head out the door and raise some money for local animals.

The Orcas Animal Protection Society is hosting its first-ever dog walk fundraiser during the month of August.

“We thought it was a good opportunity with everyone finally getting out and about again to be able to start seeing their friends and neighbors out walking and creating new habits,” said shelter director Kristina Snyder.

Dog lovers everywhere are asked to set a goal of how many miles they will walk with their pup, and then ask their friends and family to help support that goal. To sign up, visit https://pawsacrossorcas.causevox.com/.

“People have been really excited to get out there and walk,” Snyder said.

She notes that in addition to supporting your local shelter, daily walks with your pup is good for both you and your beloved pooch. So far, island walkers have raised $960 of a $20,000 goal.

The shelter is supported by community donations, and with COVID-19 restrictions, it has been unable to hold traditional in-person fundraisers.

The organization is also hosting an online auction from Aug. 20-29. From boat trips to wine to pet supplies, items will be posted www.orcaspets.org/auction.html and available to view prior to Aug. 20.

The shelter re-opened on July 10 after being closed since March 2020. Walk-in hours are Thursday-Saturday, 2-5 p.m. but for the month of September, it will be Friday and Saturday due to staff shortage. People are also welcome to call any time and make an appointment at 360-376-6777 or email info@orcaspets.org.

The generosity of island supporters has helped sustain the shelter over this difficult past year and allowed them to provide spay and neuter assistance and a safe space for pets in need. It will cost more than $160,000 to get Orcas APS through 2021. Shelter income (including adoptions, dog licenses and pet services) covers less than 15 percent of this cost.

To financially contribute to the shelter year-round, there is a Pack Leader monthly giving program. Enroll at www.orcaspets.org or send a monthly gift by mail to Orcas APS, 84A Hope Lane, Eastsound, WA 98245.

“Between the dog walks and the auction, I am hoping we bring in a total of $25,000,” Snyder said.