Andy with an OHS husky.

Andy De Breyne was a long-time dog walker for the OHS after he completed an academic assistance program for people with disabilities. Tragically, in early December 2008, Andy was the victim of a hit-and-run driver. Everyone at the OHS was shocked and very saddened by his death, but our sadness could not compare to the loss felt by his sister Louise.

Louise said that Andy had constantly talked to her about the fact that the OHS was building a new shelter, but he thought it was far off in the future. Not aware of the new locale, and being uncomfortable with changes to his routine, Andy was worried about taking the bus to the new facility. Louise regrets she did not have the opportunity to share with him that it was within walking distance of their home.

Andy loved Huskies, and the other big dogs—they were his favourite to walk. Louise always appreciated how nice all the staff at the OHS were to Andy and how they all made him feel like he belonged.

Wanting to help keep a connection with Andy and with retirement on the immediate horizon, Louise did two things to keep Andy close in her heart: She began to volunteer for the building campaign and named an adoption dog run in Andy's honour.

The staff at the OHS are thrilled that a part of Andy will live forever in our new building because of Louise's gift.

MP Lundy, our contractors, tell us that they are a few days ahead of schedule. Making it through the clearing and fill portion of the project was a relief, as even though tested, soils can differ only metres apart and this can be a risk for meeting budget. The costs of this phase were pretty close to bang on though. And now, most of the concrete footings are complete as well. Pouring the concrete pad will be the next phase, and this will be complex, as the pad will accommodate the many drains that are necessary in the facility.

The construction project is an important part of building a brighter future, but only your support for the campaign will make it happen. To discuss your pledge, please contact Anna Silverman at 613-725-3166 ext.279 or annas@ottawahumane.ca.

Peter Lefebvre, now the owner of Favor Maintenance, an industrial landlord, first became aware of the OHS and its great work when he was a graduate student. The Ottawa neighbourhood where he lived had many stray cats and he brought many to the OHS for care.

Keenly aware of the need for a new facility, Peter first heard about the Breaking Ground Campaign when his assistant brought it to his attention. They looked on the campaign website, and were amazed at the new plans for the new building. Knowing how desperate the need for a new facility was, Peter decided to fundraise to help make the project a success and made his own commitment of $15,000 to name a dog run after his beloved pug, Rooney.

Rooney had recently passed away from pug encephalitis before his 2nd birthday and the family—wife Susan, grown son and daughter, Mark and Sarah—desperately wanted to keep his memory alive.

Mr. Lefebvre has also asked his tenants to join him in contributing to the campaign, and at business meetings, all those who attend are required to give a donation to the coin box that he keeps on his desk!