TORONTO – Television icon Bob Barker, best known for hosting “The Price is Right,” is being remembered in Canada not only for his entertainment career but also for his passionate advocacy for animal rights. Barker, who passed away at the age of 99 from natural causes, was celebrated by Canadian wildlife advocate Julie Woodyer as a tireless champion for animals.
Julie Woodyer, who serves as the campaigns director at Zoocheck, had the privilege of collaborating with Bob Barker on various animal welfare initiatives over the years. She emphasized that Barker’s commitment to the cause was unparalleled, describing him as a dedicated advocate with a big heart.
One of Barker’s most iconic contributions to animal welfare was his famous signoff on “The Price is Right,” where he encouraged viewers to spay or neuter their pets. This message was further reinforced by Barker’s creation of the DJ&T Foundation in 1995, which aimed to combat the overpopulation of domestic animals by making sterilization more accessible.
Woodyer recalled her initial contact with Bob Barker in 2010, when Zoocheck, along with other animal rights organizations, launched an effort to free Lucy, an elephant, from the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Although some local officials were not pleased with Barker’s involvement, he stood firmly in his support for animal rights.
In 2011, Barker appeared on CTV’s “Canada AM” morning show, where he explained the unsuitability of Canada’s harsh winter climate for elephants and expressed concern about Lucy’s deteriorating health. His comments prompted a sharp response from Stephen Mandel, the mayor of Edmonton at the time, who retorted with the remark, “Maybe he needs a job.”
While the campaign to relocate Lucy ultimately ended without success, it marked the beginning of a lasting bond between Barker and Zoocheck, united by their shared commitment to animal welfare.
Together, Barker and Zoocheck embarked on a controversial and multi-year effort to move three elephants – Toka, Thika, and Iringa – from the Toronto Zoo to a sanctuary in California. This endeavor included Barker making public appearances and engaging with local city councillors to gain their support for the cause.
Remarkably, Barker personally donated $800,000 to the Peoples Animal Welfare Society to fund the successful transportation and care of the elephants, significantly accelerating the campaign’s progress.
Woodyer pointed out that without Barker’s substantial contribution, it would have taken many years to raise the necessary funds, potentially coming too late to save these elephants. Barker’s influence was instrumental in broadening the reach of these campaigns, attracting wider public attention and support.
Reflecting on her collaboration with Bob Barker, Woodyer remembered him as not only a dedicated advocate but also as one of the funniest people she had ever met. Even during the challenging times of their campaigns, Barker’s sharp wit and humor never failed to lift spirits and bring laughter.
Bob Barker’s legacy in Canada extends beyond his entertainment career, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s animal welfare movement. His tireless efforts and financial contributions have made a lasting impact, furthering the cause of animal rights and leaving behind a powerful example for future advocates.