There has been a significant increase in the need for help for abandoned, abused, and neglected animals over the last year in North Okanagan, according to the Okanagan Humane Society (OHS).
In 2024, OHS rescued and cared for over 4,150 animals through emergency rescue, pet assistance, and adoption programs. And, 2025 is already breaking records鈥攚ith more than 2,000 animals helped so far, many from the Vernon area.
One case that specifically sticks out for OHS, is that of Petey, who was found in a tiny cardboard box with his five siblings, abandoned at the door of a vet clinic. Thanks to donor support, OHS had just purchased a life-saving incubator that helped Petey and his siblings survive. Petey鈥檚 story has a happy ending as he was adopted by his foster caregiver, who simply couldn鈥檛 let him go.
The support from the community and donors to help Petey, his siblings and other animals in need is why OHS is hosting its first-ever Hearts for Paws fundraising event in Vernon, a heartwarming evening dedicated to saving and celebrating the lives of animals across the Okanagan.
鈥淲e鈥檝e seen an incredible need in the Vernon and North Okanagan area over the past year and a half,鈥� said Romany Runnalls, president of the OHS board of directors. 鈥淎nd the community has truly stepped up. Hearts for Paws is our way of bringing everyone together to celebrate those efforts and raise vital funds for the work still ahead.鈥�
The evening will include, wine, appetizers, a silent auction and also a chance to meet a few animals who were recently saved in the North Okanagan.
鈥淲hen you attend Hearts for Paws, you鈥檙e helping animals like Petey get the second chance they deserve. And you鈥檒l get to meet them in person,鈥� said Marni Adams, OHS fund development specialist.
Hearts for Paws will take place May 31 at Prestige Hotel and Conference Centre (4411 32nd St.) and tickets are $50 at https://okanaganhumanesociety.com/hearts-for-paws/.
In 2025, OHS has already helped more than 2,000 animals through the Rescue and Pet Assistance programs, which is 100 more animals than at this time last year.
The charity operates at a low-cost model with a volunteer-based foster program that can care for up to 300 animals at a time. The average cost of care for one animal is $350.
鈥淎ll of our work is carried out by volunteers鈥攚hether it's rescuing animals from cat colonies, tracking down stray dogs, or providing foster homes,鈥� said Runnalls.
The Humane Society does not receive funding from municipal governments and depends entirely on community support to continue its essential work.
