WITH her two trusty rescue dogs at her side, Janice Blakley has set herself the intrepid challenge of walking 500,000 steps in September to help raise much-needed funds for Grovehill Animal Trust.
The local lady, who has been volunteering for the Sixmilecross-based animal charity since 2003, will be joined on her walking adventures by Mr Ruffles and Lilli.
The trio are aiming to alleviate the mounting costs that the charity are facing due to expensive bills, operational costs and the influx of homeless animals.
Richard Robinson of Grovehill explained that, over the past year, the cost-of-living crisis has caused the shelter’s bills to sky rocket.
“Essential supplies, medical care, food, and operational costs have exceeded amounts which we have never experienced before,” he described. “These increased costs have put a significant strain on our resources, making it difficult for us to sustain the level of care that our animals deserve and need.
“Despite these challenges, our commitment to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals remains unwavering.
Janice’s four-legged walking partner, Lilli, was once a Grovehill shelter dog herself, having been surrendered to the shelter by her owners two years ago when they were no longer able to care for her.
But, unfortunately, it isn’t just older pets that find themselves in the care of Grovehill – this is the time of the year that the charity find themselves inundated with new cat and kitten arrivals.
“We would, again, like to take the opportunity to remind people that all pets should be spayed or neutered,” Richard added. “There is simply no reason not to, because alongside the many health benefits, it’s the only way to reduce the number of unwanted kittens and puppies.
“We are a small, locally-run shelter, and have a very small team with limited resources. We are doing our best, but we really need help from our local community.
“If you can help us, we would encourage you to donate to Janice’s challenge,” Richard concluded. “Grovehill would like to sincerely thank Janice, and the local community for their continued support and for enabling us to continue our work.”
l Donate to Janice’s fundraiser at: justgiving.com/campaign/janicechallenge2024 or call into the charity’s shop, located at 1 Foundry Lane, Omagh, BT781ED.
Alternatively you can send a cheque by post, made payable to Grovehill Animal Trust, to 33 Aghnaglea Road Sixmilecross BT79 9NP.
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