Sunday 13th October saw a furr-tastic display of fundraising and walking by Dorset dogs and their owners. Braving the Autumnal rain and wind, the pooches bravely put one paw forward to raise funds for Dorset-based charities Hope Housing and Helpful Hounds Assistance Dogs through a sponsored Pier to Pier dog walk.
Over 80 owners and 40 dogs took part with each four legged finisher getting a medal. There was a trophy for the best fancy dress, which was won by Buddy, a gun-toting Bassett Hound. Close runners up included Spider Spaniel, Bat Dog and Harry Potter. The trophy for the most funds raised was taken home by the Daley family and their dog Moss, previous winners of the award in 2017. At the time of writing their total exceeds a whopping £800!
All funds raised will go to support the two local charities, who offer help and support to members of the local community. Funds will be split between the two charities. The Mayor, Councillor Sue Phillips opened the dog walk and walked part of the route, even staying until the end to hand out medals to four legged finishers.
Jane Joy, Funding Manager of Hope says, "Despite the poor weather, it was an amazing turn out! To see so many lovely happy dogs and their owners all walking together for such a good local cause, is humbling. We are so grateful to everyone for taking part, for getting sponsorship and of course to the Mayor, all the amazing Marshalls that helped out on the day, Paul the photographer who donated his time for free and all the well wishers and supporters."
The event was so successful that Hope are now planning to hold the dog walk twice in 2020; adding a spring walk in late April before the beaches are closed to dogs for the summer. To register your interest for this event, please contact us.