Dogs waiting for their forever homes have received a significant boost this autumn, thanks to the Agria Dog Walk.
The nationwide event ran throughout September and saw dog-lovers join forces with Agria Pet Insurance to raise an incredible £21,145 for small local dog rescues and larger charities.
Hundreds of dog owners took part in the month-long virtual event, walking and donating to dog rescues across the UK. Individual donations topped an incredible £10,000, which Agria Pet Insurance matched, enabling the total fundraising generated to reach such an amazing amount.
The virtual Agria Dog Walk followed research carried out among Agria's dog rescue partners, that shockingly revealed over half of dogs handed into rescues are currently younger than two years old. Many are suffering from behavioural issues.
The rescues surveyed also reported a continuing increase in dogs and puppies coming into their care since the start of the pandemic, resulting in over three-quarters of dog rescues currently almost or totally full.
Lizzy Brown from nationwide breed rescue, German Shepherd Rescue Elite, (GSRE), commented on the devastating impact that continues from pandemic puppy buying: “Donations are so greatly needed at present whilst we suffer the onslaught of the lockdown dog dump. Sadly, we knew this would come and are currently overwhelmed with intakes.
“Running costs are going to remain high for a good while now as many of these youngsters have not received any socialisation or training, so will be with us while we turn them around. Sadly, there are not so many homes out there willing to take on a rescue dog with issues and work through them. GSRE would like to say a massive thank you to everyone that took part in the Agria Dog Walk, and Agria Pet Insurance, for their generous donations.”
Vicki Wentworth, Managing Director at Agria Pet Insurance, said, “We are astounded by the incredible generosity shown by dog owners across the UK, and their dedication to helping dogs less fortunate than their own. As our Rehoming team sees first-hand, the situation in animal rescues is extremely tough, both for dogs needing homes and the amazing individuals who take care of them.
“Our goal with the Agria Dog Walk was to make a difference, but we never expected to raise such a significant amount. Thank you to everyone, and their very special dogs, whose kindness will have a huge impact.”
Agria Pet Insurance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register Number 496160. Agria Pet Insurance is registered and incorporated in England and Wales with registered number 4258783. Registered office: First Floor, Blue Leanie, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7QW.
The dog rescues that took part in the campaign were:
Almost Home Animal Rescue NI
Blind Dog Rescue UK
Silver Fox Dog Rescue
Greenacres Animal Rescue
North Clwyd Animal Rescue
Mrs Murray's Cat & Dog Home
German Shepherd Rescue Elite