Rocky kicks off the red carpet showcase at the Battlefords Humane Society’s Tails for Hope Gala, held at the Dekker Centre on Feb. 8, 2025. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Kenneth Cheung

TAILS FOR HOPE

BHS Gala raises funds for its operations and nearly completed new shelter

Feb 9, 2025 | 10:16 AM

The Battlefords Humane Society’s annual “Tails for Hope” gala on Saturday was a night of generosity, celebration and progress, bringing together community members passionate about cute dogs and cats.

The event, which took place in Dekker Centre, featured a live auction, a silent auction, and the much-anticipated red carpet showcase featuring adoptable pets. It was a major fundraiser supporting the shelter’s operations and ongoing efforts to complete a new facility.

“This is our largest fundraiser of the year,” said Mandee Fruson, a director on the Humane Society’s board.

“All proceeds from tonight go directly towards supporting shelter operations and the animals in our care. Last year, we raised just over $39,000, and we’re hoping to do the same or better this year.”

The highlight of the evening was the ‘Paw’ red carpet walk, where four dogs and two cats were introduced to the crowd. It also featured an opportunity for guests to sponsor adoption fees, making it more affordable for its future owners to take them home.

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Tika during its red carpet walk. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)

Those furry friends included Rocky, Porridge, Durango, Garfield, Pogo, and Tika. Together, they raised over $2000.

“This was something new this year,” said David Gubbe, the president of the Humane Society.

“It allowed people to donate without having to buy something. Many attendees don’t necessarily need auction items but still want to support the organization. It was a fun and meaningful way to contribute.”

The long-awaited new shelter

Beyond the excitement of the gala, the Humane Society is making significant strides in constructing its new shelter, a 15-year-long long-term project.

“The building is coming along really well,” Gubbe said. “The exterior is completely enclosed, and the interior work is underway. We expect to have occupancy by May of 2025.”

The new facility is designed to vastly improve animal and staff conditions.

“Our current shelter is old, outdated, and was never built to modern standards,” he explained. “The new building will be an improvement in every respect—better housing for the animals, a healthier environment for staff, and a more welcoming space for the public looking to adopt.”

Rocky the Dog. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)

While progress is being made, he said financial challenges remain.

“A building of this size, not including the land, costs about $1.5 million,” he noted.

“Special-use facilities like this have added expenses, including air handling systems and isolation areas to prevent disease spread. We’re still in need of additional financial support to complete the final stages.”

David Gubbe delivers a speech at the Tails for Hope Gala on Feb. 8, 2025. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)

Why does it matter?

Beyond providing shelter to needy animals, Mary Haas, another board director, believes the Humane Society plays a crucial role in the community’s well-being.

“The work we do isn’t just about helping pets find homes,” Haas said.

“It’s also about health and safety. Stray animals aren’t good for anyone, and spaying and neutering programs keep populations under control. Even if someone isn’t an animal lover, supporting the Humane Society benefits the entire community.”

Garfield the Cat. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)

As of the publication of this article, the gala is estimated to have raised over $13,000 from the red carpet showcase, live auction, and the Fifty-fifty. However, this figure does not include funds generated from silent auctions and other donations.

Fruson mentioned that the treasurers would calculate and announce the total amount in the coming days.

How you can Help

With the completion of the new shelter on the horizon, the Humane Society continues to welcome community support. Donations, sponsorships, and adoptions ensure the new facility can open fully equipped and ready to serve.

For more information on contributing or adopting, visit battlefordshumanesociety.com.

During the gala. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com