The Yamnuska Wolf Dog Sanctuary is in need of more enclosures for its residents and is looking for support from the community in its upcoming fundraiser.
There has been an increase in wolf dog rescues by the non-profit over the last few months and coupled with the number of unadoptable dogs residing at the facility, it is unable to adopt more until it increases space.
“Within one month we basically had about five rescues, which all became permanent residents. With having too much wolf content, we couldn’t adopt them out,” said Alyx Harris.
The cost to build a new enclosure after everything is accounted for is $50,000 and Harris said the organization is in need of at least two.
In response, the sanctuary is holding its second annual auction and is asking local businesses to donate items for bid.
The organization succeeded in reaching its goal of close to $10,000 at last year’s auction, which went toward building a new enclosure to allow the organization to extend its rescue efforts.
“We were really excited it did so well,” Harris said. “Right now, we’re at full capacity so we can’t rescue any more wolf dogs at this moment so it’s a big thing to get this closure set up. Doing another auction will help raise some funds to assist us in doing that.”
Bidding begins Feb. 19 on the organization’s Facebook page, YWS Fundraising Page, which can be accessed at www.facebook.com/YWSauction/
The auction will remain open for two weeks and will be done entirely in the comment section on the page. There will be last call on the last Sunday of the event at 11:59 p.m. for final bids.
Bidding starts at $5 and will go up in increments of five.
So far, the sanctuary has gift basket donations from pet stores, a reading from an animal communicator, ski lift tickets to Sunshine Village and gift cards to various restaurants including the Canadian Brewhouse.
Though last year many items were sold for more than they were worth, Harris said it’s all to support the sanctuary.
“I think it’s a big thing, that people understand. It’s not only (about) getting an item but you’re helping a non-profit organization,” said Harris.
