OTTAWA, ON / NEW YORK, NY – March 20, 2026 – Veterinarians Without Borders North America / Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Amérique du Nord (VWB/VSF) is proud to announce the successful conclusion of its 2026 Animals & Ales Pet Photo Fundraiser, raising over $102,000 CAD to support access to critical veterinary care for animals and communities in need around the world.
The cross-border campaign brought together pet lovers and craft breweries across Canada and the United States in a vibrant celebration of animals, community, and impact. From February 23 to March 16, participants submitted photos of their pets — from playful pups and curious cats to a wide range of beloved companions — and rallied their communities to vote. Each vote represented a donation, contributing to VWB’s work to strengthen animal health systems and improve the well-being of the people who depend on them.
“This year’s campaign exceeded all expectations,” said Janine Mitchell, Executive Director of VWB/VSF North America. “The energy and enthusiasm we saw from participants, brewery partners, and supporters speaks to the powerful connection people have with animals — and the growing recognition that animal health is deeply connected to human and environmental well-being.”
The 2026 contest featured an expanded network of brewery partners across North America, each offering the opportunity for winning pets to be featured on limited-edition beer labels — transforming community fundraising into something both tangible and celebratory.
The campaign generated thousands of submissions and votes, with communities rallying behind their favourite pets in support of a shared cause. Funds raised will support VWB’s programs focused on disease prevention, sustainable livelihoods, and equitable access to veterinary services in underserved and crisis-affected regions.
“Animals & Ales is more than a fundraiser — it’s a community-driven movement,” added Mitchell. “Every photo submitted and every vote cast helps ensure that animals and the people who rely on them can access the care they need to thrive.”
Label releases from participating breweries will roll out in the coming weeks.
Winning pets and full contest galleries are now available online:
🏆 Animals & Ales Canada
🏆 Animals & Ales U.S.
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About VWB/VSF: Founded in 2005, Veterinarians Without Borders North America / Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Amérique du Nord (VWB/VSF) is a non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to improving community health through enhanced animal health. Using a “One Health” approach, we work with diverse partners to strengthen community-centered animal health systems, directly benefiting the people and environments that rely on them. As the North American affiliate of VSF International, VWB/VSF operates independently, with ongoing programs in Africa, Asia, Northern Canada, and Europe. Our efforts focus on disease prevention, sustainable livelihoods, equitable access to resources, capacity building, and humanitarian relief, reaching over 1 million people annually. Learn more: www.vwb.org
Media Contact:
Tanja Kisslinger
Director of Communications
VWB/VSF North America
tanja@vwb.org / +1 613 413 5776
