Williams Lake Sparks have presented a generous donation of blankets, sheets, towels, toys, laundry detergent and Canadian Tire money to the local SPCA shelter, building towards their community badge.
At their meeting this week SPCA community council member LeRae Haynes did a lively presentation with the five and six-year-olds, talking about what the shelter does and how best to care for their pets.
They learned an humorous, original song by Haynes called I’m Your Pet and You’re My Person which talks about things like the importance of spaying and neutering, fastening a dog safely in a pickup truck and maintaining regular vet visits.
Sparks leader Leslea Destree explained that the choice of SPCA to support was an easy one.
“Working on our community badge, we were trying to find a way to give back to the community in a way that these girls could understand on their level of thinking,” she said. “They all like animals and this was something that really interested them.”
SPCA shelter manager Liz Dighton said that with 15 puppies currently at the shelter, the generous donation by the Sparks could not have come at a better time.
“We go through so much soap and bedding – this is so perfect,” she said. “And Canadian Tire money is good for anything we need.”
She added that the Sparks represent the future and will be the generation to bring about much-needed change in society.
“It’s great to see young kids engaged and aware,” she noted.
“They influence their friends and teach their parents – they are the ones who can change the world.”
Spark, pet owner and animal lover Caitlin Tugnum said she was happy that they could give gifts to the SPCA shelter for the animals.
“Merry Christmas to all the pets,” she said, “and I hope you have a nice Christmas with all your presents!”