Hi, I’m Gareth and this is Dougal, my eleven-year-old rescue Cockapoo - a dog who is small in stature but big in grit and determination.

When I adopted Dougal just over a year ago from All Creatures Great and Small Animal Sanctuary, he was in a sorry state. He could barely walk a hundred yards without his legs giving out. Initially I wondered if I’d made the right decision – but over the following months Dougal showed us all what an old dog can do.

With time, care, and a hefty dose of joint supplements, Dougal got stronger and fitter. Fast forward 18 months and he’s not just walking - he’s running, hiking, and completing half marathons. He’s become an irreplaceable part of our family and a reminder that age should never be a barrier to love or life.

So, this September, Dougal and I are taking on Britain’s Three Peaks Challenge - Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon - in three consecutive days. That’s 23 miles and over 3,000 metres of ascent… with a dog who’s less than a foot tall.

We’re doing it to raise money for All Creatures Great and Small, the sanctuary that gave Dougal a second chance. They care for hundreds of animals each year - many of them elderly or overlooked - and rely on donations to provide vet treatment, shelter, and forever homes.

Please support us by donating whatever you can. Every penny goes directly to the sanctuary to help more dogs like Dougal thrive again.

Let’s prove that there really is life in the old dog yet.

Thank you for your support - and wish us luck on the climbs!

Gareth & Dougal 🧡🐾

Where your donation goes:

• £10 helps buy food and medication for a senior rescue dog

• £25 covers a vet check and microchip

• £50 contributes to physiotherapy or long-term care for older dogs

• £100+ helps fund major operations and life-saving treatments