Durham hospice launches sponsored dog walk (From Durham Times)

Durham hospice launches sponsored dog walk

1:13pm Tuesday 7th August 2012 in News By Mark Tallentire, Reporter (Durham)

 A HOSPICE has launched its annual sponsored dog walk.

St Cuthbert’s Hospice, in Durham City, will stage its fifth Paws for a Cause event on Sunday, October 7, in Houghall woods, near Durham.

The event was launched at the Merryoaks’ hospice’s Picnic in the Park, when members of Northern Mutts ‘n’ Music, a heelwork to music and canine freestyle troupe, entertained guests with doggy dance routines.

Paws for a Cause will have 1.5-mile and three-mile routes.
Over the last four years, it has raised £25,000 for the charity. Last year, 140 dogs were involved and £9,000 was raised.

There will be dog agility courses, goody bags and rosettes. Abbey Vets will sponsor the event.

Margaret Hunt, a hospice volunteer and member of Northern Mutts ‘n’ Music, said: "I’m delighted to be helping St Cuthbert’s Hospice with the launch of this year’s Paws for a Cause and to show off the talents of the dogs in the group.
"I’ve taken part in Paws for a Cause before and it’s a lovely event."

Registration is open now and costs £10 per dog.

The hospice is also staging a Cutest Dog contest. Dog owners are invited to take their pet to Abbey Vets, in Chester-le-Street, or Millennium Place, Durham, to be photographed on August 31 or September 1 or 2.

For more information on either event, call 0191-3861170.