The annual Pet Photos with Santa event went off without a hitch on Sunday at Pet Valu in Bradford.
The store has been hosting the event for the past eight years, with local photograther Vicky Zanatta of Zwoman Graphics & Photography donating her time and skills to capture photos of people and their pets alongside jolly old St. Nick.
"I come out for this every year, then I donate a photo shoot for them for their photo shoot for their fundraiser in April" she said.
Pictures are $10 for a professional 5x7 print, with all proceeds going toward the Lions Foundation Dog Guides of Canada program providing dog guides for Canadians with disabilities.
Owners of Pet Valu Bradford and members of the Bradford Lions Club, Liz and Bob Pegg are proud to support the cause with the annual tradition.
The Lions Foundation have dogs trained for the following programs: hearing, canine vision, seizure repsonse, service, autism assistance, diabetic alert, support and career change dogs.
Many of the clients who come by are regulars who have kept up with the tradition. On Saturday, there were 50 photos taken, with some having multiple pets in the shot. There were mainly dogs but a few cats and even a six and half year old, guinea pig named Boo who showed up for the event.
Zanatta and The Peggs looks forward to the event each year, seeing how much the families have grown.
"It's nice seeing them grow up," said Liz.
Over the years, staff and Zanatta have seen its fair share of pets come through the doors for Santa photos, including some snakes, ferrets, and bearded dragons.
"We even had our first hedgehog today, a chunky little guy" said Zannatta.
No matter how skiddish or rambunctious the pets may be, Zanatta and the Peggs have a way with the animals and are able to capture the money shot in a few quick minutes.
Photos are processed and ready to pickup within one week at the store.
"I love doing this. It's my heart," gushed Zanatta.
To learn more about the Lions Foundation Dog Guides Canada program, click here.
