A local pet supply store is hosting a fundraising pet photo session with Santa — with an awkward twist.
This Saturday, pet owners in Richmond are invited to bring their pets to Bodega Pets on Leslie Rd to take photos with Santa and support a great cause.
Owners Siya Yu and Louisa Chan said past experiences with pet photography sessions have made them realize it's "almost impossible to take 'good' photos" of pets in such circumstances.
"Overwhelmed by the surroundings and uneasy around the Santa, the photos are going to look awkward anyway, so why not celebrate and have fun the awkwardness?" said Chan and Yu.
The photography session will be held in collaboration with Bad Boys Photo Club, and feature "a nostalgic backdrop, broken Christmas tree with tangled Christmas lights and pet parents who want to be in the photos."
All pets are welcome and participants are encouraged to wear their "ugliest sweaters."
"It's all about having fun while supporting our local shelter," the duo added.
Chan and Yu had launched Bodega Pets, a boutique-style pet grocer, earlier this summer. After adopting their poochon Lex from BC SPCA, they became inspired to sell products they would want for Lex. The shop, located on Leslie Rd near Hazelbridge Way, features products by Canadian makers, farmers, designers and artists.
The event will run from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10. Walk-in spots are limited and photos are by cash donation only. The suggested minimum for donations is $20.
All participants will get a digital file of the Santa photo and a goodie bag sponsored by Bodega Pets Foods & Supply and their suppliers, including Richmond's Yappetizers, Vancouver's Dofu Cat Litter and Alberta's Puppy Love.
