Bolton’s Silver Fox Dog Rescue has received a significant boost with a donation of £6,767 to help the dogs in their care this Christmas.
Hundreds of dogs took part in the month-long nationwide virtual fundraising event run by Agria Pet Insurance, the ‘Agria Dog Walk’, walking and donating to one of ten dog rescues in the UK. The specialist pet insurer then matched every donation, plus an additional amount for every dog protected with Agria Pet Insurance during the event – resulting in the overall total for Silver Fox Rescue reaching almost £7,000.
Claire Underwood, Trustee at the rescue, said, “We are hugely grateful to the Agria Dog Walk. We are a small breed dog rescue, and although small, these dogs can come with huge vet bills. For example, we help a lot of Chihuahuas who are prone to luxating patellas, requiring very costly surgery to help these little dogs to become pain-free. The amount raised and the incredible donation from Agria will go towards our ever-increasing vet bills which will take the pressure off.”
Silver Fox Dog Rescue is a passionate, dedicated team who provide a safe space for dogs in need, whether this is an owner surrender due to change in circumstances, or a dog in need of help due to an abusive or neglectful past. Each dog is fully assessed, rehabilitated and received any veterinary care needed.
Raising in total, over £21,000, the virtual Agria Dog Walk followed research carried out among Agria’s dog rescue partners, that shockingly revealed over half of dogs handed into rescues are currently younger than two years old. Many are suffering from behavioural issues.
The rescues surveyed also reported a continuing increase in dogs and puppies coming into their care since the start of the pandemic, resulting in over three-quarters of dog rescues currently almost or totally full.
Vicki Wentworth, Managing Director at Agria Pet Insurance, said, “We are astounded by the incredible generosity shown by dog owners across the UK, and their dedication to helping dogs less fortunate than their own. As our Rehoming team sees first-hand, the situation in animal rescues is extremely tough, both for dogs needing homes and the amazing individuals who take care of them.
“Our goal with the Agria Dog Walk was to make a difference, but we never expected to raise such a significant amount. Thank you to everyone, and their very special dogs, whose kindness will have a huge impact.”
