Nearly 700 animal lovers and their dogs came together at Ashley Hall in Altrincham earlier this month (20 October) to take part in Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s Muddy Dog Challenge, proudly supported by LV=. The event has raised almost £100,000 so far, which will go towards the vital care of the animals that come into the charity.
It was the first time the Muddy Dog Challenge has come to Manchester and the obstacle course was made up of obstacles suitable for both humans and their four-legged friends to crawl, climb, wade and jump through. Participants had the option of taking part in the 2.5k or 5k course.
Participants included Rebecca Swift who ran with her six-year-old Mongrel Bella and raised over £200 for the charity. The challenge was made all the more extraordinary because Bella only has three legs. Rebecca said of the event: “Bella was so fast on her three legs, she dragged me round the whole thing. This is our first Muddy Dog Challenge but we’d definitely do it again.”
Other participants included Claire Aitken who ran with eight-year-old West Highland Terrier Ernie. Claire and Ernie really enjoyed their day and Claire said, “Ernie loved every obstacle and dived straight in - apart from the final mud pit though which he skipped!”
Battersea’s Challenge & Public Events Manager, Emma Lovesey, said: “Battersea’s Muddy Dog Challenge took place in wonderful Altrincham for the first time, where dog lovers helped to raise almost £100,000 for the charity. The money raised will go towards the care of thousands of homeless dogs and cats that come in to Battersea every year.
“Thank you to everyone who took part in the Muddy Dog Challenge, and to all the volunteers too, we’re very grateful for all the support.”
All Muddy Dog Challenge events for 2018 are now closed, but check the website for more information coming soon about next year’s events at https://muddydog.battersea.org.uk/