When 59 puppies and adult dogs were rescued by the BC SPCA from a disreputable breeding operation, animal lovers stepped up with funding and opened their homes.
Among the many dog lovers was Sharon Lanser and the team at Sutton Group – Seafair Realty. Working with the local parks department, Sharon organized a barbeque and silent auction in Richmond, B.C., and the whole team pitched in. That August event raised $1,600 to help nurse the neglected animals back to health. Most are now cherished pets, but Sharon knows that there is always more to do.
“I get involved in a few pet projects each year and plan to hold another Dog Fun Day with an auction,” says Sharon. “Helping out makes me feel whole. I organize and sponsor the event and gather auction items because I know the need continues.”
In 2015, the BC SPCA rescued 27,187 injured, homeless, neglected and abused animals (companion, farm and wild) and reunited 3,949 lost animals with their owner families.
Sharon also sponsors supplies such as doggie clean-up bags for local parks. Her reward, she says, is the satisfaction of helping to keep the parks clean for everyone.
This busy REALTOR® supports a variety of other projects including Angel Flight, a charity that provides air transportation for cancer patients requiring medical services outside of their communities. The annual REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive relies on significant volunteer hours and Sharon is always happy to get involved. Sharon also helped a friend organize a fundraiser and auction to assist victims of abuse.
When the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (PCA Act) was passed in 1895, it set in motion the creation of a non-profit society called the BC SPCA. By 1901, it had begun investigating cases of animal cruelty. The BC SPCA now has 36 branches across the province and provides vital protection of pets, farm and wild animals through emergency rescue, investigations, sheltering, rehabilitation and advocacy.
This story was adapted – with permission – from one originally featured on the Sutton Spirit website. The Sutton Spirit program recognizes Sutton associates across Canada that improve and enhance the lives of the people around them.
Sutton is a 100% Canadian-owned and operated company with more than 9,000 REALTORS® in over 200 offices nationwide. To find out more about Sutton, visit www.sutton.com. To learn more about Sutton Spirit, visit www.suttonspirit.com.
