The Meadow Lake and District Humane Society exceeded expectations at its annual fundraiser, reaching $6,070 on the first night despite setting a goal of $3,000. The funds will support medical care for animals at the shelter.

Board member Mazuren once again volunteered to stay overnight at the shelter until the goal was met. She noted that she never goes in with expectations and hopes each year will require only a night or two. In past years, money raised has supported items such as a van, supplies, and bedding. This year, the focus was medical expenses, a growing need after the loss of a local vet clinic, which has forced the shelter to rely on more distant and costly services.

The fundraiser covered three urgent medical cases and fully funded surgery for Kilo, a Mastiff who suffered severe spinal injuries after being hit by a vehicle. Following his surgery, Kilo has been placed in a trial adoption with a caring family.

Mazuren said this year’s overnight stay was especially cold due to strong drafts from the dog doors. She slept on the cement floor with dog blankets and cuddled with a shelter dog named Koa for warmth. As a teacher, she found the next day challenging after only an hour of uninterrupted sleep, but her Grade 6 students enjoyed hearing about her experience and even offered to take her place.

She hopes one day her students will take over the fundraiser tradition, but until then she remains committed to helping the animals in the shelter.

Source: Alyssa Rudolph, MeadowlakeNOW