The team has already walked 440 miles, visiting areas such as Yorkshire's Three Peaks and The Lake District.

Virtual event aims to raise vital funds for animal charities

The team of veterinary staff from the PDSA Pet Hospital in Huyton, Liverpool are taking part in the World Big Dog Walk, aiming to walk 874 miles in order to raise crucial funds for animals in need.

The World Big Dog Walk event is taking place throughout September, and will see pet owners, animal lovers and celebrities from across the UK walking or running in support of charities such as PDSA.

This year’s Big Dog Walk is more important than ever, as the impact of COVID-19 pandemic has led to huge financial losses for so many charities and organisations. PDSA reports losing around £3 million a month in income, which is why the team at Huyton have decided to join in with the challenge.

Helen Allwood has worked at the Huyton PDSA for eight years. Her aim for the Big Dog Walk was to raise awareness of the amazing work that PDSA does, while also helping everyone involved get outdoors and exercise; something which she believes can provide a big boost for our wellbeing.

Ms Allwood said: “Working as a vet on the frontline during the pandemic has been incredibly intense. We’ve seen a huge number of pets in need of emergency treatment and I’m proud of how the whole team have pulled together to ensure we can still be there for pets in need.

“Our fundraising target was £431 which is the number of pets we helped via phone consultations each week during August. We’ve already smashed this, and I am so proud to be part of this amazing team and I know we will pull together to smash our target and raise lots of money.”

For more information and to sign up for the big dog walk visit www.pdsa.org.uk/worldbigdogwalk

Images (c) PDSA.