HAGERSVILLE/CALEDONIA—Two area Lions clubs hosted events for the 40th annual Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides this past weekend.
First up on Saturday, May 24, 2025, cooler temperatures and the threat of more rain didn’t keep the dog walkers from attending the Sgt. Andrew Harnett Memorial Park. Hagersville Lion Michelle Campbell noted this is the 20th year Hagersville Lions have participated.
HAGERSVILLE—The group of walkers, dogs, and organizers ahead of the Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides in Hagersville on May 24, 2025. The dogs were happy to participate and anxious to get paws on the ground. With treats in hand, the group headed out. 
HAGERSVILLE—Lake and owner Lynda MacVicar ready for their first Dog Guide Walk. 
HAGERSVILLE—Linda McKeen accepts the Appreciation Award from Mark Dennis. McKeen raised $1,500 for the walk herself. 
HAGERSVILLE—Rob Phillips accepts the memorial Carol Liscombe Award from Carol’s brother, Mike Liscombe. Carol benefited from the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides and was a big supporter of the organization. 
HAGERSVILLE—Eight-year-old Isabelle Davies, Lion Michelle Campbell, Lion Bruce Roulston, Lion Mark Dennis, and Zoe, an 8-year-old mastiff cross. —Haldimand Press photos by Randy Carter. 
CALEDONIA—Around 20 people and 11 dogs participated in the 40th anniversary Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides on May 25, 2025 at the Caledonia Lions Community Centre. 
CALEDONIA—Nearing the end of the walk, brothers Remy and Lex walked with their dogs Blitz and Roo. 
CALEDONIA—Event Organizer Ralph Krueger with Morgan and her dog Crockett. —Haldimand Press photos by Sonny Pirrera.
“We have raised $3,340, and we will combine that with other monies we have raised and donate $10,000 to the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides out of Oakville,” said Campbell.
The following day, May 25, the beautiful Sunday afternoon saw another walk at the Caledonia Lions Community Centre. Around 20 people and 11 dogs participated that day, with a goal to raise $3,000 – but they ended up raising around $4,500.
All the proceeds raised go toward the seven Lions’ dog guide programs, which include Canine Vision, Seizure Response, Hearing, Service, Diabetes Alert, Facility Support, and Autism Assistance.
A new training facility is also in the works for Lions Canada. The training centre they currently operate is older and not fully accessible. The new building is expected to be around 89,000 square feet, equipped with necessary accommodations like a veterinary clinic, classrooms, training facilities, and much more. The Lions aim to develop around 250 dog guide teams a year.
Such a significant project comes with an even bigger price tag at $50 million; so far their campaign ‘The Difference’ has raised around $41.5 million. Your contribution is still needed to get them over that finish line. See more information and donate today at dogguides.com.
