THUNDER BAY – The first annual Ruff Ride took place on Sunday in support of Northern Reach Network.
Pamela Cowie, a volunteer for Northern Reach Network, said it’s a combination of efforts.
“Northern Reach Network and the Road Angels of Thunder Bay came together to create the Ruff Ride. Its purpose is to raise funds to rehome and help northern dogs and cats,” she said.
Northern Reach Network is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Cowie said.
“It was created to help the northern communities that lack access to veterinary care.
“The communities in the north identify dogs and cats that need to come out for rehoming or because they can’t access veterinary care where they live. They come to Thunder Bay mostly by fly in,” she said.
Volunteers pickup the animals at the airport and they stay in foster care for a few weeks. Once they get a number of animals, typically every two to three weeks, they get together on a transport in a van or horse trailer and they get taken to southern Ontario.
“We partner with humane societies and other animal welfare organizations to get the animals their forever home,” Cowie said.
“As a volunteer, often there is a lot of work to be done. Keeping the organization running financially is a big challenge for us.
“It’s nice for all the volunteers to feel the support that’s coming from the biker community.
“We had a count of approximately 40 bikes in total, which is an amazing turnout. This is fantastic - it’s wonderful,” Cowie said.
The Ruff Ride went out to Silver Islet, which is about a 90-minute ride.
Mandy Craig, member of Road Angels of Thunder Bay, said the event was designed to bring some awareness to the organization.
“We’re here to bring notice to the network. They’re not really put-up front and centre because they’re not involved in adoptions in the city.
“I thought it was important that we got together,” Craig said.
“As a rider myself, and on behalf of everyone riding today – it’s so important to give back and be part of these events.
Craig was impressed with the turnout.
"I’m extremely happy with the support and can’t wait for the second annual Ruff Ride,” she said
“I just want to thank everyone who took part in this event. A big shout out to Harley Davidson and all our donors for this wonderful event,” Craig said.
