Approximately $15,000 to $20,000 is needed to move the therapeutic animal park, currently located at the Souris Valley Extended Care Centre, to its new location on the south end of the Tatagwa View long-term care facility.

The therapeutic animal park houses a number of animals and birds, living in fenced-in areas for public viewing. There is also some playground equipment on the grounds for children.

Don Sealy, whose family contributed most of the funding for playground equipment in the park, said the move will cost approximately $25,000 to $30,000.

The Sun Country Regional Health Authority has agreed to pay a portion of that cost, said Sealy, but roughly $15,000 to $20,000 must be raised for the move.

Most of that cost will go to new fencing. Sealy said they may be able to use some of the fencing at the current animal park, but "some of it will be of no use."

Sealy said the park has been a very popular and well-used facility for a number of years, "bringing enjoyment to young and old."

The first contribution to the animal park move was on Friday, when the Country Women's Association donated $1,500. This money represented the proceeds from the Harvest Wine Festival in November.

Anyone wanting to make a donation may contact Sealy at home, though he will be periodically collecting donations at the Weyburn Square Mall as well.

Cheques may be made payable to the Sun Country Therapeutic Animal Park.