Parachutes for Pets hosted the Paws for Mental Health Gala Saturday night. Part of the fun of the event was the red carpet, which gala attendees walked with their pets. This year, Calgary Flames players and community supporters came together to raise funds and awareness in support of mental health. Many of the programs focus on the human-animal bond, which means the organization doesn’t want anyone giving up their pet if they have fallen on hard times. “Whether that be lack of resources, we have a pet food bank, we have safekeeping if you have to go to the hospital in an emergency, [or if] you’re leaving a domestic violence situation,” said Parachutes for Pets founder and executive director Melissa David. “For people that are struggling, they can reach out. It’s barrier-free.” This year’s fundraising goal is $100,000. “You really realize that animals are such a huge part of the family,” said Calgary Flames goalie Devin Cooley. “Just because someone is going through a hard time or their house burned down or whatever, you know, it doesn’t mean that they should lose a part of their family too. “That’s what this organization does a really good job of keeping owners and their pets together.” For more information about Parachutes for Pets, go here.
