The staff and volunteers at the LA Animal Shelter are thrilled with the property’s latest addition, a sitting area in memory of the late Dr. Boyd Taylor, a longtime supporter of the shelter. On hand for the recent unveiling were (from left) kennel keeper Tanya Teed, board members Terri McCormick, Barb Bowes, Maryanne Jackson, and volunteers Annika Kerr and Eleanor Ripley.
Volunteers have cleared a space along a popular walking trail on the Smith Road shelter’s property, installing benches and flower planters in memory of Dr. Boyd Taylor, who was a long-time supporter of the shelter before he passed away in February.
“At our annual general meeting a lot of donations came in his memory, and he was an excellent supporter of the shelter, and we wanted to do something for him,” said shelter volunteer Eleanor Ripley. “Barb (Bowes) and I volunteered to put a bench up, and it grew from there.”
It was decided to clear a spot along the Joan Bennett Christie Memorial Trail, which loops from the shelter through a shady wooded area, overlooking a neighbouring farm. The spot was chosen by Taylor’s widow, Carol.
The busy group of volunteers cleared out the raspberry bushes that had previously claimed the spot, installed two benches and some flower planters, one with an engraved plaque recognizing the memorial.
“Dr. Taylor must have been very popular, because everywhere we went to ask for some help, we got it,” said Ripley. “It turned out really nice.”
The trail was opened in 2012, but was just recently marked with a new sign. It is popular with the volunteers who come to walk the shelter’s dogs, and also serves as a walking area for prospective owners looking to get to know a pet prior to adoption.
“The project went from simply a memorial bench to some major land clearing and a very scenic spot evolved on the trail,” said board member Terri McCormick. “Many special people contributed to this project with donations and the giving of their time and talents.”
The public is invited to visit the LA Animal Shelter, open daily from 1-4 p.m., to walk the trail and enjoy this special spot.
Twitter: @ADNandrew
