You could call this a very significant pet project.
The ceiling’s the limit for Puppycats Pet Emporium Ltd. on Chemainus Road, next to McBride’s Service Station, in support of Foster Kritters Feral Cat Rescue.
Linda Dockrill of Puppycats said a fundraiser for Foster Kritters has been undertaken at the shop through the selling of ceiling tiles. People can paint them however they see fit.
The idea came from Dockrill when she used to work in Calgary for an employer who used to let his customers paint on the ceiling tiles. She found the cause to go with the idea after meeting Kirsten Rose of Foster Kritters.
“She does the rescue all on her own, with volunteer workers,” noted Dockrill.
“She actually helped us out, that’s how we got on board with her. We had a feral cat in our shack.”
Once people see the tiles that are on the ceiling so far, they’re inquisitive and have become interested in the project.
“It’s starting to catch on a bit,” said Dockrill. “I just started doing this two months ago by word of mouth.”
The tiles cost $20 apiece, with all proceeds going to Foster Kritters.
“We supply the tile,” added Terry Dockrill, interjecting from next door at McBride’s. “Pick your spot where you want to put it.”
There are already some very creative tiles on the ceiling and plenty of space for more.
“It doesn’t have to be pretty,” Terry added.
“We welcome businesses to paint their logos on there or put up a painting of your pet you’ve lost,” said Linda.
It will serve a dual purpose to decorate the ceiling and contribute to a good cause at the same time.
“My goal is to get the ceiling done,” noted Linda. “I wanted to do it when I first opened. I think this is such a fun experience. I think it’ll just be neat.”
There is room for as many as 140 paintings on the tiles. Linda can be contacted at puppycatspetemporium@gmail.com.
Puppycats opened just as COVID implications were being enforced in March of 2020. It’s become very popular with local residents, offering far more options for pet food and accessories than big box stores and the personal touch of the Dockrill family – Terry, Linda and Sam.
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