4 days ago
Man fights against deadly disease that killed dog after walk near Swindon
A man is continuing his fight against the deadly disease that killed his dog after a walk near Swindon.
Shaun Reynolds lost his dog, Willow, to Alabama Rot, a rare disease that affects dogs, last year.
Since then, he has been raising money for the Alabama Rot Research Fund.
He has already raised £15,000, and hopes to reach his £20,000 target this month.
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To help him reach his goal, he has organised a fundraising event called 'A Celebration of Willow #2' at Lambourn Sports Club on Sunday, June 29.
The event will feature seven live whippet races on a purpose-built track on the club's football pitch.
There will also be a three-piece traditional Irish band to entertain the crowds.
Other activities include life-sized garden games, a bouncy castle, a charity Tote, a silent auction, and the chance for people to run their own dogs behind the lure ahead of the races.
Food and drink will be provided by local vendors.
Mr Reynolds hopes to raise £5,000 at the event.
He said: "Last year blew me away.
"I thought the event would be popular, but the turnout went beyond what I expected and everyone was complimentary afterwards which meant the world.
"Willow's story has touched millions of people.
"While losing her was completely devastating and still upsets me each day, her legacy can be to ensure as few dogs as possible go through what she experienced at the end."
Willow died after 21 days of intensive care treatment.
There is no cure for Alabama Rot, and it is not known how it is caught.
An estimated 90 per cent of dogs infected die.
To date, 338 cases of Alabama Rot have been confirmed.
Mr Reynolds added: "There have been no reported cases of Alabama Rot within 40 miles of Lambourn – where she was infected – in the last year.
"That hasn't happened since the disease was first identified over a decade ago.
"It's impossible to know for sure, but I'd like to think she's helped to save a life or two.
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"I'd love to see as many people trackside on June 29 for a genuinely fantastic and fun day out for all the family all for a fiver, with all proceeds going to the Alabama Rot Research Fund.
"Hopefully see you then."
Admission for 'A Celebration of Willow #2' is priced at £5, with the option for racegoers to pay £10, £15, or £20 per ticket should they wish to contribute additional funds.
Cash is accepted on the day.
Doors open at 1pm, with the first of seven races starting at 3pm.
Parking is available onsite.
