Almost 200 dogs and their owners raised nearly £3000 for rescue animals by taking part in a special autumnal ramble on Hampstead Heath.
Organised by London animal welfare charity, Mayhew, the ramble, which took place on Sunday 7th October, was sponsored by Edgard Cooper in support of rescue pets and the ‘Adopt Don’t Shop’ campaign.
Radio DJ and Love Island podcast presenter Arielle Free and her adorable toy poodle Weegie were amongst those in attendance, who together raised almost £3000 for Mayhew, through sign-ups, donation buckets, stalls and individual sponsorship.
Rambles and their dogs enjoyed a welcome address from TV Vet Marc Abraham before heading off on a fun 3k or 5k guided route across Hampstead Heath. 
Participants also enjoyed dog-friendly activities and games including ‘Temptation Alley’ and a Scavenger Hunt, a ‘Hall of Fame’ style photo display of happily rehomed rescue dogs, as well as meet and greets with Mayhew Animal Welfare Officers and staff.
Welcoming the dogs and their owners, TV Marc Abraham cheered the government’s decision to back a ban into third party puppy sales, which Mayhew has been a long-term supporter of.
Speaking at the Ramble, Marc said: “It feels so great to be here today, supporting Mayew. Mayhew have always prioritised animal welfare. They are one of the most ethical animal charities out there and I am proud to stand beside them.”
Before heading out on the ramble himself, Marc ended his address with an impassioned call to arms – reminding fellow walkers that “For now, Lucy’s Law only effects England, so keep sharing stories and keep supporting rescue pets, because there’s even more work to be done in Scotland, Wales and beyond.”
When ramblers had completed their walk and returned to the bandstand, they were greeted by a photo display of Mayhew’s rescued and rehomed dogs from recent years, many of whom were in attendance.
Mayhew staff and Animal Welfare Officers were also on-site during the even to chat about the charities’ community projects, including TheraPaws and Pet Refuge.
Mayhew CEO Caroline Yates also spoke to attendees about the ground-breaking work of Mayhew International in Afghanistan, Georgia, Russia and India.
To find out more about future events, and how your support to rescue animals in Mayhew’s care can make a difference, please visit www.mayhew.org.
