This Sunday (June 7), Londoners are encouraged to take their furry friend for a walk around Osterley Park and House for a good cause.
The walk, which can be either 3km or 8km, will raise vital funds for the charity Hearing Dogs in London, which helps deaf people find a hearing dog.
The event takes place on Sunday from 11am.
Community fundraising manager for Hearing Dogs in London, Elisabeth Limon, said: "We are really looking forward to the first Great British Dog Walk at Osterley Park... The event is the perfect day out for dog lovers - and it's hard to believe that this stunning venue is just a stone’s throw from central London.
"There will be a variety of gift stalls and activities at the event, and visitors can watch demonstrations of how our hearing dogs alert their owners to sounds, throughout the day. There will be also be some adorable puppies to meet, and everyone who takes part will receive a pair of doggy ears and some fantastic gifts!
"Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is hoping to raise awareness throughout west London, and every penny raised from the event will help to transform the lives of deaf people."
All of the money raised from the event will go towards the training of hearing dogs, which help deaf adults and children.
One child who has benefited from the charity's great work is Sarah, from Uxbridge.
Sarah Mohammedi, aged 10, contracted a viral infection at birth which resulted in deafness and learning difficulties. Sarah's deafness hindered her ability to communicate with her family and she had trouble socialising with other pupils at school.
Sarah never slept in her own bed before she had Waffle, her hearing dog (a Cocker Spaniel and Poodle cross) three years ago, and extreme tiredness began to affect her schoolwork.
Her mum, Sapedah said: "Waffle has made such a huge difference not only to Sarah's life, but he's changed the quality of our lives too. The first night we had Waffle was the first time Sarah had the reassurance to sleep in her own bed.
"Sarah's so much more confident now that she has Waffle - her speech is developing and her real character has come out. Her school teachers say her concentration has improved and she is becoming more independent. Sarah has been so much happier since she's had Waffle; he is amazing!"
So go on, take your dog for a walk and help raise money for a worthy cause this weekend!
For more information, or to join the dog walk, visit the official website.
