There's a touch of sadness to the release of the latest Dogs of White Rock calendar – the senior whose love of the four-legged companions inspired the project isn't here to be part of it.
But Harold Zelt's pivotal role in its creation is central this year nonetheless, both through the photos featured – taken by his son Mike during a pair of photo shoots held in July – and in tributes captured on its cover pages.
"A kind and generous man whose love of dogs inspired this calendar. We miss you, Harold," reads script on both the front and back of the colourful and undeniably adorable collectible.
The soft-spoken Zelt became a familiar figure to many through his passion for photographing dogs he met while out and about in White Rock on his scooter. He embarked on the hobby during the pandemic lockdown, as a way to stay active and boost morale – he made a point of sharing his photos with fellow White Rock Seniors Village residents, as well as staff.
It evolved into something more at the suggestion of the residence's recreation director.
“I’ve built up quite a library of dog pictures, and … (Elsie) said to me one day, ‘Why don’t you make a calendar? I’ll help you.’ That’s how the whole thing started,” Zelt told Peace Arch News in 2020.
His first calendar was released that same year, and the project became a much-anticipated endeavour; one that, fittingly, raised funds for BCSPCA. Since its launch, some $6,600 has been generated for the organization's education and adoption efforts in Surrey.
Following the 97-year-old's death in April – less than three months after delivering proceeds from his 2024 calendar to BCSPCA officials – WRSV general manager Si Cussen said the tradition would be continued in Zelt's memory, hopefully "for years to come."
Mike Zelt said he wanted to help with the calendar "as this was one of the driving forces behind my Dad as he reached up into his 90s and was not able to get out on his own anymore in his car."
"He used his scooter to travel the local roads and parks to take the photos and talk to the owners, to gather info on each of the dogs."
The junior Zelt lauded WRSV staff members' support of the project, and particularly that of Cussen and the recreation director who got the ball rolling.
"My Dad would be so happy to see that his labour of love has been so well received by the people of White Rock," he added.
Cussen on Nov. 5 announced the release of the 2025 edition.
"It's done! Harold's memory and dedication to his furry friends live on," she told PAN by email.
The calendars, Cussen noted, are already "flying off the shelves."
Anyone interested in purchasing is invited to stop by the 1183 Maple St. seniors residence on any day of the week, between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Cost is $25, with all proceeds again to benefit the BCSPCA.
"Great Christmas gifts for a great cause!" said Cussen.
