South Okanagan winery recognized by the SPCA for doggy love

PENTICTON – An Okanagan Falls winery, which has built a theme around its love for man’s best friend, has caught the attention of the B.C. SPCA.

See Ya Later Ranch Winery has been named Caring Company of the Year.

The winery has provided the SPCA with more than $150,000 since 2006 through contributions and in-kind donations. Regional Manager Sally Sharpe said the winery has been contributing 50 cents from every bottle of “Jimmy my Pal” wine sold in the wine shop to the Penticton branch of the SPCA, in addition to proceeds from tasting fees.

Sharpe said the winery hosts special fundraising events that are dog-themed, including Dog Day on Labour Day weekend, where owners are encouraged to bring their pets to the winery for a doggy fashion show, agility course and other events, including wine tasting for the owners, of course. A draw is also held for two nights’ stay at the Watermark Hotel in Osoyoos — another dog-friendly business in the South Okanagan. Another dog-themed event is “Puppy Love” just before Valentine’s Day where dog owners can enjoy wine tasting and tappas. Proceeds from the event also go to the SPCA.

“We’re very honoured to be recognized by the SPCA. We really believe in the work they do, and we want to give back to a good cause. Many of things we do at the winery are a recognition of the work they do,” said Sharpe. She said their relationship with the B.C. SPCA goes back at least 10 years.

The dog lovers theme originated with and celebrates the memory of Major Hugh Fraser, a local pioneer who purchased the property in 1919. He is remembered for his affection for all members of man’s best friend. Many of his pets continue to rest in peace in a doggy graveyard on the property.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Steve Arstad at sarstad@infonews.ca or call 250-488-3065. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.