Deby Watts with her dog Olivia
By Joanne Dorr
The Haldimand Press
CALEDONIA—This past Saturday throngs of pets and their owners assembled at the Caledonia Veterinary Clinic to participate in the Deby Watts Memorial Walk.
Deby Watts worked for the Caledonia Veterinary Clinic for 22 years and passed away earlier this year after a battle with breast cancer. Having made a significant impact on clients, the memorial walk was a way to pay tribute to Watts’ commitment to service and love of animals. With this in mind, the event collected donations for the Farley Foundation, which subsidizes the cost of non-elective veterinary care for low-income pet owners. As of October 16, the clinic said $4,116 had been raised.
Veterinary Practice Manager Lindsey Farrell-Johnson’s favorite memory of Deby was the walk they once took together with their dogs: “I can remember standing with Deb and thinking life is perfect!”
Deby’s son Zackery with Olivia
Deby’s son Zackery and Deby’s dog, Olivia, participated in the walk. He recalls his mother’s compassion, stating, “She was very caring with clients. When she saw people under stress because, being a veterinary clinic people had to say goodbye to their pets, she would want to have an emotional bond with them.”
Deby’s optimism is what staffers Kelly Potter and Cally Johnson remember most. Potter claims “she made me a better person,” while Johnson explains how Deby would come to work every day with Olivia: “It was a great way to start your day with a wagging tail and a smile.”
Zackery remarks, “The Farley Foundation is something my mom was always adamant about. The foundation is helping those who have disabilities, women wanting to get out of relationships, and the elderly.”
The three-kilometre walk along the south side of the bridge was enjoyed by roughly 75 participants and dogs. To make a donation, visit farleyfoundation.org.
