Resident’s winter wonderland raising money for furry friends

The holiday spirit has come alive at Rosa Carello’s north-end home as the long-time Sault resident is inviting families and their pets to stop by her winter wonderland all month in support of the Humane Society.

Located at 919 Allen’s Side Road, Carello has invested hundreds of hours into decking out her house and surrounding property with a variety of Christmas-themed light displays, pet inflatables, sleighs and carriages, photo cutouts, and more.

“I wanted to make sure every little spot on the property was filled,” she said.

Residents and their pets can stop by any evening during December to walk around the property, enjoy a hot chocolate, and even take photos with Santa Claus on select days.

Overseeing the festivities in honour of her young pup Prince for the second straight year, Carello told SooToday she’s hoping to bring the community together while supporting a cause close to her heart.

“I know the Humane Society is always in need of food and blankets; my heart really does go out to them,” she said. “I also know there have been a lot of pets that were being purchased and kind of dumped off to the side. Some didn’t even have a chance to survive; they didn’t even bring them to the shelters.”

“Some people who have come by have had tears in their eyes,” she added. “There are people who really appreciate this. Everybody has something that’s important to them, and for me, it’s this.”

Carello raised more than $1,500 for the Humane Society when she organized Prince’s Winter Wonderland last year, and she’s hoping to double that total this year. She will also be collecting blankets, toys, and other animal essentials for the Humane Society.

“There was a lot of snow last year, but the weather has been better this year,” she said. “I’m hoping more people come by. The kids and pets are loving it.”

Motorists are asked to pull right up to the property when they visit as there’s plenty of room to park according to the festive homeowner.

Although she lives near city limits, Carello says that shouldn’t deter families from stopping by.

“It’s definitely worth the trip,” she said. “If you’re going out for a drive with the kids or grabbing a coffee, feel free to come by. We’d love to have you.”

Prince’s Winter Wonderland will be open to the public every evening until Dec. 31 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Santa Claus will be on-site for photos every Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Carello is accepting cash and donated items for the Humane Society in person, and e-transfers can also be sent to [email protected].

Hats and treats will be available for the kids and pets who stop by to enjoy the festivities.