By RYAN MCCRACKEN on April 24, 2020.
rmccracken@medicinehatnews.com@MHNMcCracken It’s perfect weather for the porch, and the Southern Alberta Humane Society is encouraging pets and their owners to get out and capture a moment together in the sunshine. The Paws on the Porch fundraiser kicks off this Saturday and runs through the following Sunday, offering pet owners the chance to get a patio portrait with their furry friends. “It was just an idea that came to us because we saw a lot of people were doing just people on the porch,” said SAHS board member De Seaton. “I thought why don’t we just concentrate on animals and the people can be in it if they want.” Volunteer photographers will maintain a minimum distance of six feet at all times while arranging and taking the photographs. Seaton says bookings are always filling up quickly. “It’s been really good, we’ve got 12 or 13 booking so far, so that’s good. I’m just hoping it gets out there more,” said Seaton. “We’ve actually got a photographer in Lethbridge who has also volunteered, she wants to do it with us. So we’re actually sort of doing it in Lethbridge as well.” Seaton added no props can be involved and only pets and people who reside in the same home will be photographed. Images will be available for purchase at a charge of $20 for the first photo and $5 for each subsequent photo, with all funds going to support the Southern Alberta Humane Society. “One hundred per cent is going to our animals,” said Seaton. “Because we’re self-funded, we don’t get any help from grants, city, etc. What we have to do is fundraise every month, and because of COVID we’re not allowed to be out there so it makes it really difficult for us to raise money. This was one of our answers.” To help ensure social distancing measures are upheld, payments will only be accepted via PayPal or e-transfer. “We’re appreciative of every single thing,” said Seaton. “We always are, but now especially.” Contact Seaton at 587-253-4203 for more information or to book a session. 13