Campbell River’s Beloved Cat Calendar Concludes After 10 Years

The annual cat calendar featuring Campbell River’s beloved feline, Sophie the cat, is concluding after a decade of fundraising efforts for local animal rescue initiatives. This project, known as Miss Sophie Cat, has significantly contributed to the Campbell River Partners for Animal Rescue (CRPAWS) Limited Income spay and neuter program.

Linda Wilton, Sophie’s owner and a well-known figure in the community, announced that the final edition of the calendar will be titled Tails End… the Best and the Last. Wilton, who has embraced her identity as a “crazy cat lady,” shared that Sophie, now 15 years old, is beginning to slow down, prompting the decision to end the calendar series.

“It’s just a lot of work and at 10 years, it’s time to let it go,” Wilton explained. She began this journey years ago by dressing up Sophie, an SPCA rescue, for photoshoots, ultimately deciding to create a calendar after receiving positive feedback from her social media followers.

Over the past nine years, the project has successfully raised approximately $25,000 for the CRPAWS program. “It’s close to my heart because I’m a crazy cat lady,” Wilton said with a laugh. The calendar has not only highlighted Sophie but also introduced her rescue cat brothers, Mr. Magoo and Derby Boy, who joined in the fun over the years.

Wilton is also recognized for her unique approach to promoting the calendar. Each year, she dons a cat costume and waves a sign on the sidewalk of Dogwood Street to raise awareness for the CRPAWS bottle drive fundraising efforts. The calendar has gained a broad audience, with orders coming in from as far away as England.

The final calendar will showcase some of Sophie’s most memorable costumes and photographs, alongside the best shots of her brothers. Additionally, it will feature memorable quotes to enhance the experience, along with complimentary cat keychains for buyers.

Individuals interested in purchasing the final calendar can find it at Bosley’s pet store in Campbell River or Comox, or they can order through social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.

As this beloved project wraps up, it marks a significant chapter in the community’s efforts to support animal welfare, leaving behind a legacy of joy and generosity that will resonate for years to come.