A Putney runner will join forces with man’s best friend to give back to the canines that gave solace to his late mother in Battersea’s Muddy Dog Challenge this May.
James Ross, a fostering co-ordinator at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, works towards getting pawfect pets a new home as the four-legged animals have always been a big part of his life.
His mother, Elaine, suffered with depression and substance abuse for much of her life but it was the love of her dogs that enabled her to get through difficult times.
Throughout her troubles the dogs showed her unconditional love and bought a ray of sunshine to some of the darkest days.
Unfortunately Elaine’s vices took over and she died in 2010 at the age of 57 — but her reciprocal connection with dogs left a lasting memory on her son.
James works with the cuddly animals on a daily basis and seeks to enrich people with the same love his mother felt in their company.
The Putney resident now wants to give back to the animals that offered solace to his mother during her life by competing in the Muddy Dog Challenge on Saturday May 7.
The event is the UK’s first obstacle course where dog lovers and their companions can run together over a 2.5km or 5km route.
You can choose whether to wag your tail through London’s Brockwell Park or slobber down the course through Windsor Great Park.
Children aged eight and over can apply as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
Each participating adult is asked to raise a minimum sponsorship target of £100 and for children to raise a minimum sponsorship target of £20 to help care for all the dogs and cats at Battersea.
You can donate to James via his JustGiving page.
Image courtesy of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, with thanks
