Did you know that April 11th is World Pet Day? For the first time in Berwick history, we celebrated World Pet Day with each Berwick community participating in various events and activities to commemorate this special occasion. From visits with kittens and special appearances by team members’ pets to baking homemade dog treats, creating DIY cat toys, hosting pet photoshoots, and designing World Pet Day magazine covers, Berwick honored this special day in style.
Take a closer look at the World Pet Day magazine covers from our very own Berwick by the Sea on the previous page. Below, we share quotes from our residents about their beloved pets, along with photos—enjoy the precious pets of Berwick communities!
Berwick House is known for its beautiful patio and garden, which residents often enjoy during the warmer months with their cherished pets. Across our Berwick communities in Victoria, a variety of cuddly dogs and cats live alongside our residents. One pet who is particularly well known for his expressive eyes is Dumpling, May Chow’s cuddly cat from Berwick House.
“He is good company and relieves my stress. He helps me share happier times. He’s happy when he goes for a walk on his leash and sees my neighbours.” — May Chow
Berwick Royal Oak resident Terry Dance-Bennink and her beloved cat, Suki, bring joy not only to her life but also to everyone who meets them.
“I rescued a black cat after my husband died, and she rescued me! It took her a while to trust me, but now she sleeps nestled beside my hip and purrs early in the morning to wake me up. She gives me such joy when she chases birds and squirrels on YouTube, standing on her hind legs to catch them—but they always escape behind the TV, much to her confusion! Suki (Japanese for ‘beloved’) has blessed me with so much joy and laughter. Thank you, Berwick, for being pet-friendly.” — Terry Dance-Bennink
Berwick Qualicum Beach is home to some special pets loved dearly by their owners—one of whom is known to be full of mischief: Carol Low’s Persian cat, Earl. Here’s Earl’s perspective on life at Berwick:
“My name is Earl, AKA His Royal Highness. I am a Persian munchkin, and I am three years old. I just moved in and allow my owners to live here with me. I love lying in the sink waiting for my water, my twice-daily grooming, my monthly pedicure, and all my new hiding places. I also enjoy waking my dad up first thing in the morning. I do not like it when my tuna is late, when I’m rushed out of the shower, or when the birds are too afraid to come to my window. Now that I am famous, I will allow the rest of you to live here too!”
Located in an oceanside community, Berwick Parksville is surrounded by the vibrancy of the natural world. Residents and their pets enjoy endless opportunities to explore nature. One such companion is Emma, an adorable dog belonging to resident Heather Stewart, who loves to mimic the wildlife around her.
“She imitates the bunny hop when she sees bunnies and has done so since she was a puppy.” — Heather Stewart
Berwick on the Lake is home to one very adorable West Highland Terrier, Chloe, who is dearly loved by resident Vicki Henderson. At Berwick, pets are considered family—not only to their owners, but also to fellow residents and team members.
“Chloe moved to Berwick nearly two years ago. She loves walking through the halls because everyone gives her attention. She now has an extended family here.” — Vicki Henderson
At Berwick on the Park, Leslie Whitmore’s beloved cat, Eric, is a constant presence in her daily life. As a community that prioritizes residents’ emotional well-being, Berwick recognizes the important role pets play in our lives.
“I value Eric because he brings me love and comfort. He gives me purpose by making sure I keep him alive—that is my job. Eric is also well known in the building, and people often stop by to visit him.” — Leslie Whitmore
At Berwick Comox Valley, resident Janet Goodacre shares her life with Mary, her nine-year-old rescue yellow lab, who brings her joy and companionship every day.
“Joy comes from my dog Mary, who brings me companionship. She cuddles me and knows if I am sad, sick, or unhappy. She is my therapy dog, and she’s gorgeous.” — Janet Goodacre
Jon and Gael Ackroyd from Berwick by the Sea share their home with Abby, a sweet and loving cat who plays an important role in their lives.
“The way she lies down near me while I’m working and stretches out her paw to me—when she rolls over asking for belly rubs—makes me feel needed and like she wants me around.” — Jon Ackroyd
At Berwick, we pride ourselves on being pet-friendly and making our suites accessible to prospective residents and their furry companions.