What We Do – Blue Barn Community Cares

What We Do

Kris Koop (owner) with store cat, Ollie

The Blue Barn Community Cares Society is associated with Blue Barn Pet & Hobby Farm which is a pet supply store chain based in British Columbia.

Blue Barn is owned and operated by Kristopher Koop who started the company in June of 2016. The first store opened in Castlegar, BC in June of that year followed by the Terrace, BC location in March of 2020 and Osoyoos, BC in January of 2024.

From the beginning, Kris was determined to share his love and passion for all pets by offering high-quality products, by having knowledgeable staff, and by supporting pet rescues in each of the Blue Barn communities.

Since 2016 Blue Barn has donated many thousands of dollars, and tons of pet food to local organizations which are not limited to pet charities. Beneficiaries also include local food banks, Lion’s Clubs, Search & Rescue Organizations, Firefighter’s Burn Fund, and others. Keep scrolling to see who we work with.

On top of supporting pet rescues and adoption, we’ve even adopted our own store cats. Get to know them below!

Noire

Noire is a sweet and social cat who likes to snooze all day on a warm heating pad. When people first meet her they notice her exceptionally curly tail and striking eyes which are larger than most cats. Noire and Cleo were the first store cats in Castlegar.

Cleo

Cleo could very well be the poster model for the stereotypical cat. She is very solitary and likes to sleep in quiet, out-of-way spaces where no one will bother her. She's a skilled hunter and helps keep rodents away from the tempting food all over the store.

Ollie

Ollie is the in-house clown and even has his own Instagram account (@bluebarnollie). He came to us as a kitten who had been severely injured (most-likely hit by a vehicle) and nursed back to health by caring vets and an amazing foster family. When he gives you his wide-eyed look you know he is planning some mischief.

Bruno & Bazzle

Bruno and Bazzle, otherwise known as “The Blue Barn Brothers” were rescued from a hoarding situation that included dozens of kittens. Although they look like twins, they have very different personalities. They bonded quickly with Ollie, and the three of them can often be found enjoying an intertwined nap.

Tilly

Matilda, or Tilly is the Blue Barn Terrace store cat. She takes her job as a greeter very seriously and often takes part in store promotions like Pictures with Santa and Fill The Bucket. She also loves to jump into customer's carts and baskets.

Follow Ollie & Friends, and their crazy antics! Just click on the instagram emblem

The Blue Barn Community Cares Society was established in January 2023 with the sole purpose of hosting activities to raise funds for community organizations. The Blue Barn stores were already organizing a variety of events, but with the formation of the BBCCS, these efforts will be more strategic and efficient and make it easier for us to help those who need it.

Advent Treat Calendar

Every Christmas season, we sell advent treat calendars so your pet can share in the fun of the holidays! The net proceeds from the sale of Advent Treat Calendars are given to charities.

Fundraising Calendar

We hold a Photo Contest each year to find pet photos to include in the calendar, then all proceeds from the sale of the calendars goes to our chosen charities. This is possible thanks to our advertisers who help offset the cost of printing.

Adoption Coupon Books

When you adopt a pet from a registered pet rescue, you are eligible to receive a coupon book valued at over $400! For every coupon that is redeemed, $1 is donated to a pet charity of your choice.

Blue Barn Tote Bags

100% of the proceeds from the sale of our custom Blue Barn Bags will be donated to local charities.

February Pet Dental Health Month

Each February, we offer select treats at a special price with net proceeds from the sale of the treats donated to local charities.

Pet Food Challenge

The Pet Food Challenge happens every April and to date, we’ve donated over 8 tons of pet food to rescues in our hometowns. We donate 1 lb of pet food for every 10 lbs you buy. Plus, when you donate pet food, Blue Barn will match the donation pound for pound. This event simply can’t happen without the support of our brand partners.

Fill the Bucket

When you buy a bucket for $20, all net proceeds from bucket sales go to local charities.

You can then fill your bucket with toys, treats and supplies and save 20% on what fits inside. Then post a photo of your bucket to the Blue Barn Facebook page and have the chance to win great prizes!

This photo was submitted by our 2021 winner, Lisa D, of her puppy, Tank, enjoying his spoils! Lisa won the value of her purchase back up to $200 and got a full $200 credit added to her Blue Barn account.

The Blue Barn Community Cares Society supports charities in our hometowns and across British Columbia. We believe that every pet deserves a safe and loving home and we support the efforts of pet rescues with donations of food and funds, and help promote education and the importance of spaying and neutering.

Our work is only possible thanks to our customers, donors and brand partners. Together we are building stronger communities for pets and their parents.