We raised over $75,000 on Giving Tuesday!
We’re thrilled to share that the Farley Foundation’s 2025 Giving Tuesday campaign raised $77,843 and counting! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community of supporters, pets and families across Ontario will receive the care and support they need when it matters most. A few very special thank-yous: Our dedicated anonymous Farley donor, who once again matched the first $2,500 in donations for the third consecutive year! Your ongoing generosity continues to change lives and bring hope to pet families across Ontario. Boehringer Ingelheim, which returned this year with a $10,000 challenge match that kept the momentum strong all day long. We’re so grateful for your continued partnership and commitment to helping pets in need. And mostly importantly, the over 355 generous supporters who came together on Giving Tuesday to make this campaign such a success. Because of you, more than 128 pet families will receive care, and the Farley Foundation can help provide: Life-saving diagnostic tests that guide the best possible care. Emergency surgeries that offer pets a second chance at life. Critical hospitalizations and recovery care to help pets heal. Hope and peace of mind for families who can’t imagine life without their beloved companions. On behalf of the Farley Foundation, and the pet families we’re able to help, thank you for being the reason behind so many second chances. Your generosity ensures families across Ontario can stay together, no matter the circumstances. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. P.S. Missed Giving Tuesday? It’s not too late to make a difference. Donate now and help us continue this vital work.
Mark your calendar for Giving Tuesday!
The Farley Foundation is once again participating in Giving Tuesday on Dec. 2! This incredible global day of giving harnesses the power of people like you to create real change and uplift communities. Together, we’re joining a movement where millions of hearts beat as one to do good, and we invite you to join us for this powerful, feel-good day! Our goal: $50,000 to keep pets healthy and happy Imagine a world where every pet has access to the veterinary care they need. At the Farley Foundation, we believe that no pet parent should have to choose between their pet’s health and their own financial stability. With your help, we can reach our goal of $50,000 and keep more pets with their families where they belong. Double the impact of your gift Thanks to a generous anonymous donor, the first $2,500 in donations on Dec. 2 will be matched dollar for dollar. That means your $50 gift becomes $100, and your $100 turns into $200, doubling the power of your kindness to help even more pets. And there’s more! Once we reach a milestone of 100 donors, an additional $10,000 matching gift from our friends at Boehringer Ingelheim will be unlocked, helping us make an even greater impact. Your gift doesn’t just change one life, it changes two. Like it did for Gabi and her family. Gabi, a nine-year-old Labrador retriever, developed painful bladder stones and required urgent surgery. “She was in so much discomfort, and without your generous assistance, we wouldn’t have been able to move forward with the treatment she so badly needed,” say owners Erin and Lester. “Three weeks after her surgery, she was back to her happy, playful self again. Seeing her pain-free has been such a tremendous relief and joy. This life-changing surgery would not have been possible without The Farley Foundation. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.” Because of supporters like you, Gabi’s story has a happy ending, but there are still so many pets waiting for their chance. Are you ready to make a difference this Giving Tuesday? Mark your calendar and visit our Giving Tuesday donation page on Dec. 2! Every share, every dollar, and every act of kindness counts! Let’s come together this Giving Tuesday to be part of something bigger—a wave of generosity and love that reaches pets and families across our community. Join us and make an impact that lasts! Make your Giving Tuesday donation and change lives today!
How a legacy gift makes a difference through the Farley Foundation
Helping pet owners was important to late Burlington resident Jean Ellen Griffin. She loved cats and shared her life with two special feline friends, Muffin and Tina. “Jean was independent and feisty,” says veterinarian Dr. Marilyn Loh, who was also a friend. “She always had an opinion about something, telling jokes and sharing her day. Jean lived life to the fullest until her health started to affect her.” How a legacy gift helps When she wrote her will, Jean wanted to ensure that her estate helped people who couldn’t afford to look after their pets. To do this, she provided a legacy gift to the Burlington Community Foundation, establishing a donor advised fund that will carry out her wishes in perpetuity by providing grants to animal welfare charities like the Farley Foundation. Jean entrusted the stewardship of the Jean Ellen Griffin Fund to Dr. Loh, who now makes annual grant decisions. In 2023, the Farley Foundation received a grant of more than $23,000 from the fund. The grant helped carry out Jean’s wishes and directly supported pet owners facing financial hardship, helping them access vital veterinary care for their beloved animals. “Through the Farley Foundation, we have seen the results of being able to help people care for their animals who wouldn’t be able to do so financially,” says Dr. Loh, who practices in Burlington.“Having happy outcomes in most cases would be the reward and joy that Jean would have gained if she could see how her fund is able to help others.” Since its establishment in 2002, the Farley Foundation has helped more than 18,000 pets receive necessary veterinary care, including over 10,000 dogs and 7,000 cats, ensuring they could stay with the people who love them. “We’re deeply grateful for this generous support. This legacy gift will help more pets get the care they need and will help bring us closer to our goal of doubling our impact by 2027,” says John Stevens, executive director of the Farley Foundation. Donor advised funds generate annual income from investments. The fund can then provide grants to charitable organizations year after year. The Burlington Community Foundation manages the fund and all administrative responsibilities, offering a simple and meaningful option for estate planning. Those who establish a fund can direct where they would like the grants to go, whether that be to specific organizations or areas of interest that matter most to them. “Moving forward, I hope to distribute funds to other animal rescues and [to the] Farley Foundation again to help animals in need,” says Dr. Loh.
Join the Farley Foundation monthly giving program
There’s something special about knowing you’re making a difference quietly, consistently and with heart. One way to do this is to donate monthly to help sick and injured pets. We’re excited to officially introduce The Farley Pack, our community of monthly donors who make everything we do possible. By joining The Farley Pack, you become part of a compassionate group of people across Ontario who believe no one should ever have to say goodbye to a beloved pet just because times are tough. Month after month, the pack shows up with steady generosity, keeping pets and families together through hardship. Why you should join the Farley Pack Becoming part of The Farley Pack isn’t just generous; it’s meaningful, connected and rewarding. When you join, you’re stepping into a caring community of animal lovers who believe in keeping pets and families together. Here’s what you can expect as a pack member: When you join, you’re becoming part of a community of quiet heroes, people whose consistent support creates life-changing impact every month. Donate monthly to help sick and injured pets Your monthly donation – whether it’s $10, $25 or $100 – adds up to lifesaving, heart-healing support for pets and families across Ontario. Because of pack members like you: Monthly giving helps us plan ahead, respond quickly and help as many pets and people as possible – both now and in the future. That’s the power of predictable, steady support. That’s the power of The Farley Pack. Real voices: why Esmari joined the pack “When our Miniature Schnauzer, Rummins, suddenly became very unwell at the start of the pandemic, it was one of the hardest times of my life. I couldn’t be with him during vet visits because of restrictions, and I had to trust strangers to care for my very sick little guy. Through it all, my veterinarian’s compassion and support carried us. When Rummins passed away, my veterinarian made a donation to the Farley Foundation in his memory. That gesture meant so much to me, and it reminded me how many people are forced into impossible choices when they can’t afford treatment for their pets. I signed up to give monthly that same day.” Read Esmari’s full story. Ready to make a steady, lasting difference? If that sounds like you – or who you want to be – we’d love to welcome you into The Farley Pack. By joining us,you’ll become part of a movement that saves lives, keeps families together, and creates second chances every single month. Join The Farley Pack today. Even $10 a month can change a life. For more information or questions about becoming a monthly donor, contact Kristy Hoffmann, manager of community and donor relations.
How one pet owner turned heartbreak into hope through monthly giving
When Esmari Taylor’s dog suddenly fell ill, her world changed in an instant. What followed was a journey of heartbreak, compassion and ultimately, hope. With the support of her veterinarian, and later, the Farley Foundation, Esmari discovered how monthly giving helps pets get veterinary care, ensuring that no one has to face the impossible choice between financial strain and a beloved companion’s care. A heartbreaking diagnosis When Esmari Taylor’s beloved miniature schnauzer, Rummins, suddenly became very sick at the start of the pandemic, her world turned upside down. “It was a terribly hard time in general,” she recalls. “The clinic had strict COVID rules, so I couldn’t go in with him. I had to hand my very sick little guy over at the door and just… wait. I couldn’t comfort him. I couldn’t see him. All I could do was trust that the voice on the other end of the phone would take good care of him.” Rummins was diagnosed with a liver tumour and referred to a specialist. Surgery was too risky, and chemotherapy seemed like the best option. But within a week of treatment, Rummins fully lost his sight. The playful, lively companion who had filled Esmari’s life with so much joy became very sick and withdrawn. “We were devastated,” she says. “He went from being this active, engaged little guy, and a massive part of our life, to a very sick, traumatized and depressed dog. It broke my heart.” Finding strength through veterinary support Through it all, Esmari’s veterinarian was there, calling daily, listening and reassuring her. “She became an enormous support for me and took incredibly good care of us all — especially Rummins.” During one of those tearful phone calls, they talked about how difficult it must be for families who want to save their pets but simply can’t afford the costs. “I thought about what that must feel like for both the families and the veterinarians, to be in that impossible position,” says Esmari. A year later, when Rummins’ health declined further, Esmari made the painful decision to let him go. A few days later, she opened her mailbox and found a letter from the Farley Foundation. Her veterinarian had donated in Rummins’ name. “It was an incredibly kind and meaningful gesture,” says Esmari. “And it brought me back to that conversation we’d had months before. That’s when I realized how I could help; help families who love their pets just as much as I loved Rummins, but who might be facing impossible choices. I signed up as a monthly donor that same day.” “I believe our pets make us better people,” she says. “They love us unconditionally, and for many people, they’re everything. Losing Rummins was probably the worst thing that had ever happened to me. To this day, I miss him.” How monthly giving helps pets get veterinary care The thought of someone losing their companion simply because they can’t afford care is, for Esmari, unthinkable. “Giving monthly to the Farley Foundation lets me be part of something bigger, something that changes lives.” After saying goodbye to Rummins, Esmari’s heart found a new way to heal, with a new furry family member, Sammy. “We rescued him as much as he rescued us,” she says. “He helped heal our broken hearts and is now very much the centre of attention in our household.” For Esmari, the Farley Foundation represents hope for families facing impossible choices. Her monthly contributions help ensure pets and their people stay together when financial barriers threaten to tear them apart. To anyone thinking about becoming a monthly donor, she says,“Your contribution, no matter how big or small, can have a life-changing effect for someone else.”
Donating to charity in your will
Did you know that, as part of your Will, you can set aside money for charity? You may have heard this called planned or legacy giving. And you’ll probably hear a lot more about it in the coming years: a Will Power study found a significant increase (up to eight per cent) in the number of Canadians donating to charity in their Wills. In real numbers, that’s 1.2 million more Canadians giving in their Wills, creating roughly $37 billion in future donations. Think about what a big dent we could make in transforming access to essential veterinary care for pets in low-income families, keeping them healthy and together where they belong. Why donating to charity in your Will is becoming more popular One obvious reason is an economy forcing us all to hold our wallets a little (or a lot) tighter. Donating in your Will lets you make a big difference without using the money you need now. Even one per cent in your Will could make an impact. This, coupled with an urgency to do something in the face of growing global need, has made gifts in Wills a popular solution. Inflation and cost of living may have put pressure on Canadian incomes. But the desire to help has never been stronger. Another reason is demographics. Roughly a trillion dollars will be passed down over the next 10 years, the biggest wealth transfer in history. It’s given many of us pause, realizing we probably will have enough to support family and a charity in our Wills. Lastly, Canadians are just getting more savvy with their money. This includes harnessing the power of Wills, RRSPs and other assets to give more strategically. Why donate to charity in your Will? It might sound funny to think of your Will as a tool for change in this world, but when it comes down to it, there are many benefits to donating this way: Contribute more than you could otherwise Our donors are always amazed when we tell them how far their donations stretch, and how much more we can do for pets in need with every extra dollar. When we show them what a small percentage in their Will to the Farley Foundation could look like, they do the math and their eyes light up. Remember, that the value of your “estate” is the sum of any property and/or business you own, your pension and/or registered funds, any securities like stocks or mutual funds, any cash savings, and life insurance. It adds up, even if you subtract debt. In fact, the average Canadian family in 2023 had a net worth of $981,816. If you put just one per cent of that aside for charity, you’d be looking at a donation of about $10,000! When else could the average Canadian make such an extraordinary impact? Continue the good work you’ve done When a donor tells us they’ve left a gift in their Will, we often get into the “why.” Most speak about their work with the Farley Foundation as an expression of their values; something that provides them purpose, pride or enjoyment. They see their contributions of time and money as an investment in keeping pets and their families together by ensuring access to essential veterinary care for those in need. So, it only makes sense that they’d want their good work to continue on after they’re gone. Not just to keep their investment going, but also to show leadership and motivate others to get involved. Keep your memory alive in a unique way Imagine the pride your children or grandchildren will feel knowing that you’ve helped provide life-saving veterinary care for pets in need, keeping them with the families who love them. Or the honour it would be for them to be involved with in expanding this compassionate work, ensuring no pet is left behind due to financial hardship. Your gift doesn’t even have to be that grandiose. When your loved ones have something tangible, meaningful and bigger than you to associate with your memory, you’ll have created a legacy that future generations can rally around. Big tax breaks Taxes probably aren’t the first thing you think about when it comes to charity. But Canada actually has some of the most generous charitable tax incentives in the world! In Canada, when you make a donation, you get a charitable tax credit that can go a long way to help pay down what you owe. Your loved ones might need that charitable tax credit when you pass, because your estate is likely to be hit with a huge tax bill they’ll have to take care of. You can even structure your donation in different ways so that you get the biggest tax break possible. A popular approach is to name a charity as a beneficiary of your RRSP, because the credit received will close to cancel out what would be owed on this heavily taxed asset. If you’re interested to learn more, you can always book a consultation with a financial advisor who specializes in charitable giving. How to write a Will that includes a charity It’s easier than you think. In fact, it can actually be fun to dream about the future and give shape to the mark you will make. Choose the charity or charities you’d like to support. It’s wise to book a chat with someone at your charity to talk about your options and make sure they can fulfill your future wishes. If you’re thinking about making a donation in your Will to the Farley Foundation, thank you. You can speak to Kristy Hoffmann at kristy@farleyfoundation.org or 1.800.670.1702, ext. 234. You won’t be held to any commitment, or sent any additional communications if you wish. Make sure you have the charities’ legal names and registration numbers. For reference our legal name is Farley Foundation and our registration number is 88752 2316 RR 0001. Get a rough estimate of the size of your estate and what percentage you’d like to
Celebrating National Philanthropy Day
As we reflect on National Philanthropy Day, we’re reminded of the incredible power of generosity and the lasting impact it has on our communities. At the Farley Foundation, this day provides a meaningful opportunity to express our gratitude to all who have supported us throughout the year. 2024 milestone: 1,374 pets helped and counting Thanks to our supporters, 2024 has been a year of extraordinary change for pets and families in Ontario. We’re thrilled to share that, as of this fall, we’ve helped 1,374 pets and their owners—an almost six per cent increase over last year. This milestone brings us closer to our goal of supporting 2,000 families annually by 2027. Together, we’ve helped 774 dogs, 576 cats, eight rabbits, eight birds, four guinea pigs, three ferrets and one rat. From life-saving surgeries to diagnostic testing, your contributions have helped ensure that pets like these receive the care they need to stay healthy and remain with their families. Supporting Ontario’s most vulnerable pet owners Our support reaches those in some of the most challenging situations. This year, we’ve helped 783 pet owners on Ontario Disability Support Payment, 171 relying on Ontario Works, and 163 individuals with annual household incomes below $25,000. Our donors also reached 130 seniors receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement, and 101 families living with disabilities who rely on the Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefit. In addition, through the SafePet Ontario program, 26 pets found refuge, offering safety to those fleeing domestic violence. With Farley Foundation funding, these pets received essential veterinary care, ensuring they were prepared for fostering and a fresh start. Gem and Oscar’s Story: a lifeline in a time of need But the numbers only tell part of the story. Every donation is a lifeline to someone in need, a gift that changes not only the life of a pet but the lives of their owners. One such story is that of Gem, 51, and his beloved cat, Oscar. Gem has faced many personal challenges and when his cat, Oscar, developed a severe urinary tract infection, Gem was unable to afford the veterinary care needed to treat him. Desperate, he was ready to surrender Oscar when a veterinary staff member informed him about the Farley Foundation’s assistance. Thankfully, Gem and Oscar qualified for funding and Oscar received emergency treatment and is now healthy and thriving. Gem shared that Oscar is more than just a pet—he’s family. “Oscar is my everything,” says Gem. “Without your help, I would have lost not just my cat, but a part of myself.” For pet owners like Gem’s, the Farley Foundation is more than just an organization—it’s a source of hope. It can be the difference between facing life’s challenges alone or having a loving animal companion by your side. Our supporters make this possible. National Philanthropy Day: a heartfelt thank you to our supporters As we celebrate National Philanthropy Day, we’re grateful for our incredible supporters—the generous donors, compassionate veterinary clinics, dedicated board members, amazing corporate partners and fabulous volunteers! Thanks to you, the Farley Foundation is keeping tails wagging and hearts full. Your generosity is helping to provide access to essential veterinary care to pets in need across Ontario.
Legacy giving: make an impact for years to come
For many, discussing wills, estate planning and organizing your affairs can feel like a daunting and somber task. However, embracing these conversations and planning for the future empowers you with the option of choice and ensures your legacy wishes are fulfilled once you pass on. Did you know that leaving just one per cent of your will to a charity can create a significant impact? While many people focus on providing for their loved ones, legacy giving can help support a cause you deeply value, allowing you to make a lasting difference alongside securing a brighter future for your family. The impact of legacy giving A legacy gift, or planned gift, is a powerful way to leave a lasting impact through your estate plan. This charitable contribution takes effect after you pass, allowing you to support a cause that resonates with you. By making a planned gift, you enable a charity to continue its vital mission, ensuring that your passion for making a difference lives on long after you’re gone. From bequests to property donations, there are many ways for individuals to include a charity in their estate plans. Common options include bequests, beneficiary designations, gifts of stock/securities, or donations of other assets. Not only do these planned gifts support the causes you’re passionate about, but they can also help reduce the taxes your estate owes, ultimately benefiting your beneficiaries. By planning your legacy thoughtfully, you can ensure your generosity goes further, creating a lasting impact for both your chosen charity and your loved ones. A personal connection: David’s legacy gift We recently met with David Acomba to hear his story about why he chose to include the Farley Foundation in his will. After receiving a heartfelt in-memoriam card for his beloved black lab Chester, who was not only well-loved but also a talented animal companion, he began to reflect on how he could make a meaningful impact. “Everyone in our neighbourhood knew Chester; he even had his own paper route. So, when a close friend donated in his memory to an organization somewhat similar to yours, it truly touched my heart,” says David. “I thought it was interesting, so I started investigating charities that help pets, and that’s how I learned about the Farley Foundation.” As an animal lover, David was instantly drawn to the foundation’s mission, but it was when he learned more about our impact and scope of work, particularly in helping low-income pet owners, that he took a deeper interest. “The Farley Foundation seemed to have a real reach; a real understated reach,” says David. “Having a pet is expensive, but I’ve never had to worry about that. However, there are people who do have to worry about that.” Inspired by the foundation, David reached out to a friend and his veterinarian for their opinions. When he learned about the foundation’s size and its low overhead costs, he knew it was a charity he wanted to support. “It just made sense,” says David. “I felt that every dollar I donated would help two sentient beings, not just one.” Why consider legacy giving? There are many reasons why individuals choose to leave legacy gifts, but for David, it was a chance to make a heartfelt impact. He saw it as an opportunity to support an organization that transforms the lives of both pets and their owners. In doing so, he was not only honouring the memory of his beloved dog Chester but was also helping create a brighter future for other cherished pets and their families. “There are many organizations in the world that could use help, and there are so many places you can support, but I decided that I wanted to just focus on one organization so that my support could make more of a difference.” Planned gifts are meaningful contributions that can provide lasting stability for a charity. For the Farley Foundation, a legacy gift can help us expand our reach, increase our resources and raise awareness. Most importantly, it allows us to extend our impact, reaching more pets and families in need. Each gift, no matter the size, plays a vital role in ensuring our mission continues to thrive for years to come. Your legacy, their future At the Farley Foundation, we deeply understand and value the human-animal bond and the positive impact this companionship can have on the elderly, individuals with physical or mental impairments, and those living with disabilities. Leaving a planned gift is about more than financial assistance—it’s a contribution to the well-being of pets and a way to enrich the lives of those who rely on their companionship. “Pets are truly vital to our lives, especially in today’s electronic, isolated society,” says David. “Many people seek companionship and find comfort in animals to help navigate life’s challenges.” David Acomba’s story illustrates that a legacy gift is not just about financial support; it’s about creating a lasting impact that resonates far beyond your lifetime. By making this choice, you leave behind a legacy of compassion for both animals and their families, helping us continue our mission for years to come! To learn more about leaving a legacy gift for the Farley Foundation, contact Kristy Hoffmann, manager of community and donor relations, at kristy@farleyfoundation.org.
Fundraise for Farley Month is here: learn how you can support the campaign
Fundraise for Farley Month is officially here, and we couldn’t be more excited to launch this year’s campaign! Every year, we’re amazed by the incredible support from veterinary clinics, dedicated staff, industry partners and generous supporters who rally together to make a difference for the foundation. Thanks to your generosity, last year’s campaign raised over $230,000 during our month-long fundraiser. Although this was an amazing achievement, we’re setting our sights even higher and aiming to raise $240,000 this year. By participating in this year’s campaign, you can help us meet this ambitious target and directly impact pets and families in need. What is Fundraise for Farley month? Held annually in October, Fundraise for Farley Month is the foundation’s largest fundraising event. During the month-long campaign, hundreds of veterinary clinics across Ontario hold special events and fundraisers to raise funds and awareness for the Farley Foundation. As the foundation’s largest campaign, Fundraise for Farley Month generates hundreds of thousands of dollars for the foundation, enabling us to continue our vital work of keeping pets with the people who love them. How you can support the campaign There are several ways—from big to small—that supporters can contribute to the campaign. With over 300 clinics participating this year, we encourage you to check the list of participating clinics, find one near you and discover how you can support their efforts (don’t forget to ask about this year’s donor keychain!). Can’t make it to a participating clinic? No worries—you can still be a part of the action! By donating online, your contribution goes straight toward our Fundraise for Farley Month goal, helping pets and families in need. Every dollar counts, and your support will have an immediate impact! Want to do more? Consider hosting your own fundraiser! Whether you engage your family and friends or plan a physical event in support of the foundation, your creativity can help raise both awareness and funds for the foundation. If the above suggestions aren’t possible for you, you can still make an impact by engaging with our social media posts on Facebook, Instagram and X. You can also help us spread the word by sharing our campaign with your family, friends and coworkers. Why your support matters Fundraise for Farley Month isn’t just about raising money—it’s about saving lives, preserving families, and offering hope. When pets are in need of urgent care, families often face impossible choices. Your support ensures that no pet has to be left behind because of financial hardship. By donating to Fundraise for Farley Month, you’re not just giving money—you’re giving a family more time with a beloved companion, helping a pet in pain find relief, and restoring hope to those who feel helpless. Every contribution, no matter the size, can change a life. Together, we can keep more pets where they belong—in the arms of the families who cherish them. Join us to make this year’s Fundraise for Farley Month the most impactful yet! Help us reach our goal of raising $240,000 by making a gift online or supporting a participating clinic—your support will enable more people to provide their pets with essential veterinary care. Let’s make a difference, one paw at a time!
Ride for Farley recap: cycling for pets in need
After months of dedicated planning, the Farley Foundation proudly kicked off the 2024 Ride for Farley on Sept. 14 in Milton, Ont., bringing together animal lovers and supporters for a memorable day of cycling and community. The day began with our team cheering off animal lovers cycling for pets in need and ended on a high note with crowds of supporters joining us for a celebratory gathering. Together, we raised more than $66,000 for people and pets in need! For those who were unable to join us, here’s a recap of the remarkable day. Nine cyclists (and one dog) cruising around Milton in record-breaking time With the sun shining and spirits high, nine cyclists (and one loyal dog) took to Milton’s scenic roads for a 50-km ride in support of pets in need. The riders were divided into two teams: Team Green, with five cyclists, set off at 9:20 a.m., followed 10 minutes later by Team Blue, which included four riders and Abby the dog. While it isn’t a competition, we want to highlight that our first group of riders broke a record by returning in less than three hours! Adding to the day’s success, three more supporters participated remotely, cycling in their own communities. A special tribute to a beloved colleague This year’s Ride for Farley commemorated a very special colleague, Dr. Dave Heaton of Three Island Veterinary Services in Bobcaygeon, Ont., whom we sadly lost earlier this year. Dr. Heaton was an avid Farley Foundation supporter, participating in the Ride for Farley for 10 years and raising more than $20,000. To pay tribute to his legacy, a group of Dr. Heaton’s family and colleagues came together in Peterborough, Ont., to honour and celebrate his life. Ten individuals from the group rallied together to raise more than $8,000 and cycle 40 km along country roads, while the remaining group of Dr. Heaton’s loved ones, including his beloved dog Pickle, walked along the river. “It was a very memorable day to honour Dave among his co-workers and family,” says Dr. Tamara Lightbody, participant and Dr. Heaton’s colleague. To further honour Dr. Heaton, a custom paw print with his initials was printed on each rider’s jersey. A barbecue celebration to mark the occasion After the cyclists completed their journey, the celebration continued with a lively barbecue at our office. Guests enjoyed delicious barbecue dishes, live music from a DJ, complimentary pet photos, face painting and an array of games and family-friendly activities. We were also honoured to welcome Milton’s Mayor, Gordon Krantz, and MPP Zee Hamid, who joined us to show their support and take part in the festivities. More than 100 supporters joined us at the event, taking the opportunity to meet our team, learn more about the foundation’s mission, and connect with fellow animal advocates. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who came out to support this new initiative, cheer on the cyclists, and show their dedication to making a difference for people and pets alike. Over $61,000 raised to help people and pets in need We are so excited to announce that our 2024 Ride for Farley and community barbecue raised more than $66,000 – over $20,000 more than last year! This is an incredible accomplishment, and one that we couldn’t have achieved without the support of our sponsors, cyclists, community members and vendors. A huge thank you goes out to VetCPA, Three Island Veterinary Services, Dechra, IDEXX, Reflex Integrated, Smokin’ Bones BBQ Catering, DJ Ugo Flo, Right Choice Children’s Entertainment and Happy Tails Pet Photography for their contributions to this extremely successful event. Help make a bigger impact Although this year’s event has come to a close, the opportunity to make a difference continues. Contribute to the Ride for Farley campaign by making a gift online or exploring other ways to support the Farley Foundation. Every donation helps pets in need. We’re already looking ahead with excitement to next year’s Ride for Farley! Keep an eye on our events page for updates and join us in changing lives for pets and their families.