The B.C. SPCA is looking for the next stars of an annual fundraiser that combines animal welfare and local craft beer. The agency launched its fifth annual Make My Pet a Yellow Dog Brewing Star contest Wednesday, giving four pet owners a chance to see their companion featured on a special-edition beer benefiting the B.C. SPCA. Pet owners can enter the contest by uploading a photo and story about their companion to the contest’s website, while supporters can vote for their favourites through donations to the agency. “The prizes are such a joy. How special is it to see your beloved pet featured on a beer sold across B.C.?” Alina Wilson, the B.C. SPCA’s senior officer of digital giving, said in a statement. “Best of all, by celebrating your companion in this way, you’re also helping vulnerable animals.” Since the contest launched in 2022, participants and their supporters have raised nearly $900,000 for the B.C. SPCA, funding services ranging from animal cruelty investigations to emergency veterinary care and pet food banks. The contest beer is set to be sold across the province, with three of the labels awarded by vote and the fourth decided through a draw. Yellow Dog Brewing is delighted to be partnering with the B.C. SPCA for this cause, according to owner and founder Melinda Coghill. “We can’t wait to see all the amazing entries and find out who will star on the 2026 special-edition beer labels!” Coghill said in a statement. “It’s heart-warming to see animal lovers come together to support their pets, while also making a real impact for animals in need.” On top of fame, the winners will also receive a pair of custom glasses and digital artwork—both featuring their pet’s face—plus brewery gift cards. The same prizes will also be awarded to two runners-up and the winner of the Community Choice Award. The contest ends Sept. 27 at 8 p.m. and is open to people aged 19 and older. As one of last year’s winners proved, unconventional looks can be an asset. “Winning has been such an honour, as I have a huge passion for animal welfare and rescuing pets through the BC SPCA,” said Arielle, whose one-eyed cat, Mr. Eyeball, was featured on one of the 2025 labels.
