Dominique Douglas
Dominique's Open Water Swimming Challenge
Fundraising for Happy Paws Puppy Rescue
Story
I grew up in Australia and swimming was a very big part of my life. Since moving to the UK 30 years ago, I have not had much opportunity to swim.
On 11th June I began to swim in open water in the docks of Canary Wharf, London.
I've decided to challenge myself and at the same time raise as much money as possible for a charity very close to my heart, Happy Paws Puppy Rescue. This is the wonderful charity who rescued our gorgeous boy Jake.
Sadly, there are so many other lovely dogs who need their help everyday.
My goal was to swim 5000 m in one month in open water.
I am so pleased to let you know that as of 11 July I've completed 6,750 m in 11 swims for Happy Paws Puppy Rescue.
Week 1 - 600 m
Week 2 - 1,500 m
Week 3 - 2,250 m
Week 4 - 2,400 m
This equals 135 laps of an Olympic pool.
I've loved every minute of it. I will continue swimming - I have 3 swims booked next week. Not sure how I'll feel as the weather gets colder, but we'll see!
I would love to raise even more money, so if you could donate to this wonderful charity, no matter how small, I'd be so grateful. There are so many deserving dogs who need their help.
Swimming was my life in my teens, now I'm in my mid-fifties, it is far more of a challenge, but I still love it.
Happy Paws was set up to rescue as many golden retrievers from a life of abuse, cruel confinement or abandonment. As a charity we are passionate about giving these beautiful dogs the life they so deserve Currently we rescue around 300 golden's a year and unfortunately it’s never ending. As long as we are needed we will there standing up for animal welfare and fighting for the rights of as many golden souls that need us. With the kind support we receive we are making a difference to golden lives.