After being found wandering the streets alone, rescue dog Toby is about to embark on a mission to walk 1,000 miles to raise money for the charity that saved him.
The two-year-old collie cross was found straying the streets in April last year before he was taken in by Dogs Trust Manchester. But it wasn’t long before he caught the eye of animal-lover Kate Badger who felt he could be her ideal walking buddy.
And having been proved right, the inseparable duo are now on a mission to walk a minimum of 1,000 miles this year for the charity.
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The former Dogs Trust resident and his new owner will be taking to the hills in a bid to raise thousands of pounds for four-legged friends less fortunate than himself.
Kate, a Festival Coordinator, from New Mills, in Derbyshire said: “Before Toby I have had three rescue dogs and really admire the work Dogs Trust does to help every dog that comes into its care. The charity supports dogs to live life to the full whilst they are with Dogs Trust, and once they have found a new family.
“I can’t imagine life without Toby. Despite what he went through before arriving at Dogs Trust he adores people and is a big softie. He comes to the local pub with me and everyone basically talks to him first and then remembers I’m there at the other end of the lead! I wouldn’t have it any other way. If he’s happy, I’m happy."
Kate is charting their progress on social media and has already shared their adventures at some of the region’s most picturesque areas, including Dunham Massey and Lyme Park and the hills around Buxton and Castleton.
She added: ““I want to do what I can to support their work. 1,000 miles may not seem like a lot, but our main walks are often going uphill so we thought it was a reasonable target. Hopefully we’ll power on past it!
“A dog might need some extra support to help them cope with life better, like help to feel more relaxed when meeting other dogs or when spending time alone, or they may have been badly treated and need time to build up trust. Whatever it is, Dogs Trust is there for them.”
Already, the duo have raised £120 via their JustGiving page, and are aiming to raise £2,000 for the charity.
Lisa Eardley, Manager at Dogs Trust Manchester, said: “Toby was only at Dogs Trust a few weeks before heading home with Kate but some dogs find themselves waiting a lot longer to find their forever home and we will care for them until that day comes, however long it takes.
“The fact that Toby was a stray and is now so happy and living such a brilliant life is what it’s all about. The funds Toby and Kate raise will help us make sure we can give all our dogs everything they need, from toys to training, until their lucky day arrives and they head home with a wonderful new owner.”
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