How often do you get the chance to support rescued animals and possibly pocket thousands of dollars? The Pembina Valley Humane Society (PVHS) is once again inviting the community to be part of their annual 50/50 draw — a fundraiser that’s anything but small-town in scale.
“Last year, we were able to raise a pot of almost $40,000,” said shelter manager Jennifer Young. “Almost $20,000 of that went to the winner — it really, really is amazing.”
Behind the scenes: How your ticket helps tails wag
It’s not just about the prize money. Every dollar raised through the 50/50 helps PVHS care for animals in need — and the needs are as varied as the animals themselves.
“This goes toward all our general operations,” Young explained. “Vet care, spay and neuter, our TNR program, kitten season — last year we took in nine litters — and we’re expecting more.”
And sometimes, the unexpected happens. “We had a Husky come in with teeth worn down, possibly from chewing metal or rocks,” Young recalled. “She needed dental surgery. Things like that, you can’t predict.”
Powered by passion (and a bit of dog trivia)
PVHS runs on heart — and humor. With just three staff members, the rest of the shelter relies on volunteers who show up rain or shine, ready to walk dogs, scoop litter, and provide enrichment for every animal.
“You have to have a passion to actually be here,” said Young. “Enrichment isn’t just physical. It’s mental too. We ask them trivia questions — sometimes 80s, sometimes pop culture. Geography? Not great. Math? Forget it.”
Tickets, please! (and maybe just a donation?)
Getting your 50/50 tickets is as easy as clicking a button or popping by the shelter — but believe it or not, some people don’t even want a chance to win.
“I’ve had to convince people!” laughed Young. “They say, ‘I just want to donate.’ And I’m like, ‘You could win money!’ It blows me away every time someone walks in and says, ‘Here’s $100 — just because.’”
Tickets are available online at pvhsociety.ca, in person at the shelter, or by email. “We’ll do whatever we can to make sure you get your tickets,” Young said.
Not just a raffle — A lifeline for local pets
Whether it’s a scared pup, a stray cat with health issues, or a litter of kittens needing round-the-clock care, every animal that comes through the PVHS doors gets the love and attention they deserve — thanks to you.
“I love that we can actually give back to the people who donate,” said Young. “Without the community, none of this happens.”
And the need? It’s bigger than most people realize. “It costs us a minimum of $300 for every animal that comes through our doors,” she explained. “That’s assuming nothing is wrong. That doesn’t include spay or neuter, dental surgery, or anything else — that’s just basic care.”
So when you buy a ticket, you’re not just entering for a chance to win some cash — you’re giving animals a second chance at life.
Buy your tickets today at pvhsociety.ca