Thousands raised at Kibble and Bids Auction and comedy show

By Patricia Leboeuf | May 24, 2018
Ontario SPCA volunteer Lea Thompson and Community Development Coordinator Heather Jobe took to the stage and were the evening’s auctioneers. (Photo by Patricia Leboeuf, Petawawa Post)

The Ontario SCPA Renfrew County Animal Centre Raised the Woof and had a howling good time at the Kibble and Bids Auction and comedy show.

Held on May 4, the fundraising event brought in more than $16,500 with additional money still being counted.

“That is going to put a lot of kibble in somebody’s bowl,” said Community Development Coordinator Heather Jobe.

For the past approximately half-decade, the animal centre has hosted a large, annual event with proceeds going towards the health, happiness, and maintenance of the animals in their care.

“It is very important for us,” said Ontario SPCA Renfrew County Animal Centre Manager Amanda Eckersley. “We are a charity organization so we do run on funding from our community members.”

The format of the event sometimes changes, but it is always a great time for the attendees. This year, the Raise the Woof Comedy tour made a stop in Pembroke and kept the crowds rolling in the aisles with laughter. Guests were also invited to take part in a live and silent auction, and enjoy some tasty treats and drinks.

The silent auction had hundreds of items to bid on. Colleen Corris had trouble narrowing down exactly what she wanted. (Photo by Patricia Leboeuf, Petawawa Post)

Businesses, organizations, and individuals donated most of the items in the auction, and the selection was varied with everything from pet products to home decor.

“It is perfect for people who love animals,” said Eckersley.

A few adoption alumni also made an appearance with their pet parents in tow. Their stories were shared with the crowd with the hopes of enticing others to adopt a pet of their own.

“We are definitely seeing more kittens,” said Jobe. “Spring has definitely sprung in this area.”

As well as collecting much-needed funds, the event helps educate the public about the work of the Ontario SPCA - what they do for the community as well as details of the new Pembroke location.

“People that didn’t know that the OSPCA is right around the corner from them will know at the end of the evening and will know a little more about what we do and our life-saving efforts.” said Jobe.

The Ontario SPCA Renfrew County Animal Centre is now located at 115 Woodcrest Drive in Pembroke.