Adam Prudhomme
Editor
Marianne Carlyle departed from the OSPCA Lennox and Addington Animal Shelter just after sunrise Thursday morning, the start of her 245 km bike ride to Brockville.
The gruelling 12 hour bike ride is part of the OSPCA’s Sweat for Pets fundraising campaign, which calls on pet enthusiasts to get active while collecting pledges for vulnerable animals across the province. Participants can run, walk, ride, swim or create a unique challenge of their own.
Carlyle is scheduled to arrive at Brockville’s Leeds and Grenville Animal Shelter, of which she manages, around 11 a.m. today. After a short break she’ll resume her ride towards Cornwall, where it’s expected she’ll arrive around 6 p.m. this evening to complete the ride. This marks the second year she’s taken on the challenge of a long distance ride to raise awareness for the Sweat for Pets campaign.
“Sweat for Pets is a critical fundraiser for the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society and we need the public’s support to continue to help vulnerable animals,” says Carlyle. “Make a donation, or create your own unique challenge. While you’re sweating, encourage your family, friends and co-workers to pledge their support.”
The Sweat for Pets campaign, which kicked off May 25, will continue until June 25. To get involved, visit www.SweatForPets.ca.
Lennox and Addington Animal Shelter Esther McCutcheon was among those to see Carlyle off on Thursday morning. The shelter in Napanee continues to host appointment only curbside meetings and pick ups for the animals in their care. McCutcheon says they currently have several cats and small animals looking for a new forever home.