Dogs hunt for easter eggs in Windsor

Good Friday went to the dogs in Windsor, in a manner of speaking.On Friday, Malden Park hosted the annualeaster egg hunt for dogs in support of National ServiceDogs.

The organizationprovides certified service animals to people living with autism and post-traumatic stress disorder. They've held an Easteregg hunt each spring for at least a decadein Windsor.

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Dozens of canines searched through the park for thousands ofEaster eggs, each stuffed with a dog treatfor the animaland a stickerfor their human companions. The stickers could be collected for prizes such as dog toys or prize packs from sponsors.

"It's the social event of the year for the dogs," saidErica McKenzie while holding her 10-year-old dog,Dora, who has hunted for eggs every year since she was a puppy.

Supporting service animals was a primary reason for McKenzie to attend. Her dog, Dora, had previously worked as a service animal for a different organization."I really believe in the work the service dogs do, especially for children with autism," she added.

'A friend he can count on'

Organizer Betsy D'Annunziogot involved in part because her son Gabriel has a service dog.

"He is a friend that [Gabriel] can count on without having to use words or social cues," said D'Annunzio who is hopeful the event will provide substantial funding for NSD. "I'm hoping for at least three or four thousand dollarsfrom Windsor."

Events were held on Good Friday across Ontarioin Guelph,Oakville, Kitchener, St. Catharinesand London. An event was also held in Calgary. Entrance fees were set at $25 per participating dog, but human participants could earn extra chances to win prizes through additional fundraising.

"I think...[NSD] actually broke their record and got $55,000 [total] which is awesome," said D'Annunzio.

National Service Dogs said theydonot receive direct government funding. According to NSD, the wait time for someone with autism to receive a service dog from them is two to three years from the time of application.