I'm Ajax! Welcome to my page! The following explains why we need your help! I retire this autumn after 10 years as an assistance dog for Service dogs UK. My handler Lee, wants to mark this by raising money for the charity and running the infamous Marathon des Sables, a 250km race across the Sahara!

11 years ago I was a stray puppy, lost and fighting for my life when I was found by The Dogs Trust. I was scared and howled all the time. Lee was in no better place. Years on active service in the military followed by the fire and rescue service he endured flashbacks and nightmares, unable to leave home. Fear consumed him 24 hours a day. Haunted by his memories, he attempted to take his own life to stop the suffering.

That's when Service dogs UK, a registered charity affiliated to Assistance Dogs International, rescued both of us!

At first i just wanted to play and hide Lee's socks. With weekly support of the experienced trainers at Service Dogs UK, I learnt things designed to help Lee live again. I was taught how to wake him from his nightmares. To put the light on, smother him in licks and with the weight of my body try to ground him. If he dissociated in places, I would guide him to a quiet safe space. I responded to queues that his PTSD had been triggered, fetched medication, opened doors. He became the first human I could trust, and with my support, Lee learnt to trust the world again.

PTSD nor my memories from a puppy ever go away, but we've made it through together.
That's why along with your support he wants to give something back to Service Dogs UK.

The Marathon de Sables costs include travel, equipment and entry. We are hoping to raise enough to cover some of these costs and raise a target of £2,000 for Service Dogs Uk.

The charity works closely with The Dog’s Trust, Help for Heroes, Walking with the Wounded, and other veteran charities. Visit their website https://www.servicedogsuk.org/

Lastly a huge thank you from Lee and myself - Love Ajax xxx