A Cause for Heroes with Paws: Supporting Neeka

Community Events

Raise a glass for Neeka and retired police dogs.

Some heroes wear uniforms. Others serve on four paws.

Spend Sunday, September 27th at Red Bird Brewing for Heros with Paws, a free community fundraiser supporting Ned’s Wish and the ongoing medical care of retired Kelowna RCMP police service dog, Neeka.

About Neeka

Neeka was medically retired early after becoming seriously ill. Following lifesaving treatment, she has made an incredible recovery, returned to a healthy weight and is now transitioning to the daily medication that will help manage her condition moving forward. Neeka is expected to attend the fundraiser with her family, giving guests an opportunity to meet the very special dog at the heart of the event.

Throughout her career, Neeka served from Kamloops, British Columbia, and deployed across the RCMP’s Southeast District as part of the Emergency Response Team. Known for her calm, quiet demeanor, striking jet-black coat, and piercing brown eyes, Neeka let her actions speak louder than words.

Her service was marked by countless successes, including locating an elderly woman with dementia who had fallen down a steep embankment during a severe thunderstorm, assisting in the apprehension of a dangerous suspect following a province-wide police pursuit, recovering crucial evidence in a shooting investigation, and locating a discarded firearm buried deep beneath the snow after a home invasion. No matter the conditions or the challenge, Neeka consistently demonstrated determination, focus, and an extraordinary nose for the job.

Her handler, Cpl. Stephen Prior, remembers another side of Neeka just as fondly – her legendary yawns. Whether she was politely enduring one of his stories or secretly conducting her own research into whether canine yawns are contagious, Neeka always had a way of making people smile.

About Ned’s Wish

Ned’s Wish is a 100% volunteer-run Canadian charity dedicated to improving the quality of life of retired police service and military working dogs.

Unlike their human partners, retired service dogs do not receive a pension to help cover the cost of their care. Medical expenses can be substantial, particularly for dogs who retire because of illness or injury. Ned’s Wish provides financial and educational support to help these remarkable animals receive the care they deserve after years of service.

Fundraising at Red Bird

Red Bird will donate 100% of Dog Beer sales from the day, along with sales from all Pepperoni pizzas, toward Neeka’s ongoing medical care.

Representatives from Ned’s Wish will also be on site to share Neeka’s story, provide information about the charity and accept donations. Guests will be able to donate using the event QR code or contribute directly through Neeka’s page on the Ned’s Wish website. When donating online, please include a note indicating that your contribution is for Neeka.

Donate to Neeka Here

Activities Throughout the Day

The fundraiser is planned to include:

• A meet-and-greet with Neeka
• A Ned’s Wish information and donation booth
• Kid’s K9 Kraft Corner
• Dane’s Desserts BARK Sale
• Family-friendly activities by donation

Dane’s Desserts will be selling dog-friendly treats, including barkcuterie boards, pupcakes, cakes and treat boxes. A portion of treat sales will be donated to support Neeka’s care. You can view Dane’s product offerings here.

Come spend the afternoon learning about the extraordinary work performed by police service dogs, meet some of the people dedicated to supporting them in retirement and help give Neeka the comfortable future she has earned.

Admission is free and all ages are welcome.


Event Details
Date: Sunday, September 27, 2026
Time: 11am–4pm
Location: Red Bird Brewing, 1080 Richter Street, Kelowna
Admission: Free
Beneficiary: Ned’s Wish, supporting Neeka’s ongoing medical care