Two craft breweries in Kelowna are participating in the Animals & Ales fundraiser launched by Veterinarians Without Borders North America. The initiative invites pet owners to submit photos for a contest to feature winning animals on beer labels, raising funds for veterinary care in underserved areas. The campaign runs until March 16.
The Animals & Ales fundraiser, recently launched by Veterinarians Without Borders North America, involves pet owners submitting photos of their animals to compete for spots on limited-edition beer labels. In Kelowna, Railside Brewing and Three Lakes Brewing Company are among the participants, each hosting their own contest page as part of a broader effort that includes 24 craft breweries—15 in Canada and nine in the United States.
Pet owners can rally votes for their entries to help secure a win, with proceeds supporting veterinary care for animals in underserved communities and during emergency situations. "Animals & Ales is about community in every sense of the word," said Janine Mitchell, executive director of Veterinarians Without Borders, in a press release. "It brings people together around their love for animals, supports local breweries and helps ensure animals and the people who rely on them can access vital veterinary care—especially in times of crisis."
The program encourages submissions of cute pets that could grace beer cans, fostering engagement while aiding animal welfare. Entries are accepted through designated pages for each brewery, with the contest concluding on March 16. This year's initiative highlights the intersection of local business and charitable causes, drawing in communities passionate about animals and craft beer.