ORILLIA’S WALK FOR DOG GUIDES HELPS FUND LIFE-CHANGING COMPANIONS

When hundreds of paws hit the trails at Tudhope Park on September 28, it will mark both a cherished local tradition and a national celebration.

The 17th annual Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides in Orillia will bring together dog lovers and community members to support a program that changes lives—while also commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides.

Registration opens at 10 a.m., with the walk kicking off at 11 a.m. Last year, Orillia raised just over $20,000, ranking as one of the top fundraising communities in the country. Event organizer Laura Joyce hopes to match or even exceed that impressive total this year.

“The Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides is a national fundraising event held annually, and this year marks its 40th anniversary,” explained organizer Laura Joyce. “All money raised goes directly to the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides and supports their seven specialized dog training programs.”

Each service dog costs about $35,000 to train, but recipients only cover the ongoing costs of food and veterinary care.

“What makes this so important is that the Lions Foundation is a non-profit that receives no government funding,” Joyce said. “All support comes from private donors, Lions Clubs across Canada, Pet Valu, and events like this.”

The walk helps fund seven life-changing programs that provide service dogs to Canadians with a range of needs—including individuals who are blind or deaf, those with seizure disorders or mobility challenges, and children with autism. More recently, facility support dogs have been trained to offer emotional support to vulnerable individuals, such as children testifying in court.

Joyce, who has been involved in the Orillia event for nearly its entire history, said she has seen the walk grow steadily in profile and impact.

“We certainly have been doing much better in terms of the fundraising,” she said. “I think it’s getting more popular and people are starting to recognize the Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides.”

For Joyce, the community’s generosity is no surprise.

“I think Orillia has a great spirit and just loves to help,” she said. “Orillia’s always been known for its just generous spirit and wanting to pay it forward.”

Joyce, a visually impaired local registered massage therapist for more than 15 years, has relied on her own dog guides, including Polly, her current and fifth dog.

“She helps with my independence, my peace of mind, and companionship,” she said. “She provides emotional support. These dogs not only have been known to physically save lives, but they also emotionally save lives by being your constant companion and your best friend.”

Stories from others who have benefited from the program have stayed with Joyce, reinforcing the importance of the walk.

“It’s great hearing from other people with service dogs from the Lions Foundation of Canada, and just the impact that it’s made in their lives,” she said. “When people find out that the match is free, they’re just so grateful.”

On walk day, the atmosphere is designed to be both celebratory and inclusive.

“This year I’m expecting a great turnout, prizes, and just a fun time,” Joyce said. “We’re going to have a number of prizes handed out. It’s just a fun time.”

To register, click here. Those unable to attend are encouraged to donate and support. 

As Joyce prepares for the 17th year of Orillia’s walk, she remains grateful for the opportunity to play a part in expanding access to service dogs across Canada.

“I just consider myself fortunate and honoured to be able to help the Lions Foundation of Canada each year in achieving their goal of making sure there’s more service dogs out there for Canadians who are in need and require the assistance that these amazing dogs can provide.”