Why the word ‘walkies’ will sound great for deaf people
DOG-LOVERS from Fareham and Gosport are being encouraged to get outside with their pets and help raise money to improve deaf people’s lives, with a special event launched for later this year.
The Great British Dog Walk, sponsored by Specsavers and organised by Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, will be arriving at Mottisfont on October 22, just outside Romsey .
There will be a choice of 2.5km or 5km routes for owners to enjoy with their pets. Anyone can take part, whether they have a dog or not, and each walker will receive a special activity-filled pack.
Dr Alison Vaughan, audiologist at Specsavers in Southampton, will be attending the event with members of her small team; whilst also encouraging those to join in the fun.
She said: ‘The Great British Dog Walk is an excellent way for people to have fun, get some exercise, meet like-minded people and, perhaps most importantly, meet lots of cute dogs while supporting a good cause.
‘If every person who walked the Great British Dog Walk raised just £10 above the cost of their event ticket by getting themselves or their dog sponsored, the charity could fully train another dog to alert deaf people to important and life-saving sounds.
‘We’re so proud of our involvement in the Great British Dog Walk and we’re looking forward to the walk at Mottisfont. We hope lots of people will come along and show their support.’
To fully train and support a hearing dog costs £40,000. The dogs play an essential role in helping people to combat loneliness, and all money raised during the Great British Dog Walk will go towards this vital life-improving initiative.
Tickets cost £12 on the day or £10 online. Children under 16 can attend for free. The cost of a ticket includes a free dog bandana, walker certificate and an activity pack to take on your walk.”
There are 12 million people in the UK with hearing loss. More deaf people need help than ever before. Readers can find out more information and details about signing up to the Mottisfont walk by visiting the link here: https://www.hearingdogs.org.uk/support/events/gbdw-2022-mottisfont/.
PICTURED: Have dog will travel… but it’s not only pet owners who can help to raise funds for the deaf later this year.
