Thousands of paws across six countries are set to unite in the Agria Dog Walk to raise money for animals in need.
On Saturday May 25th 2019, walks will be taking place simultaneously in locations across Europe, with dogs (and their humans) coming together to raise much-needed funds for the animals that need it most, those that don’t yet have a forever home of their own.
Walks are planned in Stockholm, Oslo, Helsinki, Copenhagen, Paris and several locations in the UK, from Edinburgh to Devon and many places in between.
Each walk is linked to a local rescue and for every dog that’s walk, Agria Pet Insurance have agreed to donate £5.
Every penny raised will go directly to that rescue, supporting the to continue the fantastic work they do to care and rehome animals in safe, arm and loving forever homes.
So, even though it’s a Europe-wide event, every dog that takes part will be directly supporting their local rescue.
As well as raising as much money as possible for rescues, the Agria Dog Walk also aims to highlight the mutual positive impact dogs and owners have on one another – in particular, from getting out and walking together.
From tackling dog and human obesity to the significant mental health benefits gained by exercising with your four-legged friend, the significant evidence is there – dogs change our lives for the better.
Carolyn Menteith, Agria Behaviourist and Trainer said: “A walk is a wonderful break in the day for both you and your dog. Often, it’s the only time we get to focus 100% on them, and so it’s the perfect opportunity to deepen the bond between you and improve your relationship.
“All breeds and individuals are different – and some need long rambling walks exploring the countryside, while others like a short sprint followed by some lazing on the sofa. It’s not just about walking though. It’s about knowing your dog, so you can give them the right kind of exercise and doing what they really enjoy.
“For some dogs this can be playing retrieve games, for others hide and seek is a favourite pastime while others enjoy practicing training exercises while out and about. The important thing is that walking your dog is something you do together – no distractions, no phones or work – just the two of you.”
A recent report into obesity in pet dogs in the UK found that 59% of dogs were classified as overweight or obese. Like humans, exercise can help significantly to get any excess weight off and stay in good shape.
Robin Hargreaves, former British Veterinary Association President and Vet Panel Lead at Agria, said: “Life can be much more painful for dogs that are obese, especially as they age, and obesity in dogs – as in humans – can trigger or exacerbate conditions such as osteoarthritis and diabetes. Appropriate food and exercise are critical to avoiding and reducing obesity in dogs.
“It’s so much more fun to exercise together with your dog – and the fitter you both are the more enjoyment you can both get from being out and about together in the great outdoors. You’ll never have a more enthusiastic exercise partner – make the most of having them there to motivate you.”
If you can’t make the walk or don’t have a dog, don’t worry, you can still help your local rescue continue to do their incredible work by donating – simply follow the link below.
To find out more information about the Agria Dog Walk and to register for one local to you, you can visit www.agriapet.co.uk/agria-dog-walk.
