21st June saw New Zealand hounds take part in the second global Great British Greyhound Walk. Last year, 133 hounds and their people organised seven walks across New Zealand - this year saw 320 hounds and sixteen walks (not including the two walks in Invercargill that were cancelled due to the weather).
New Zealand had the most walks organised outside of the UK, which is an outstanding achievement. The walks aim to raise awareness of this most wonderful breed of hound and the fact that so many children take part, help to show what wonderful pets they can make. Whenever we gather in large numbers, we always draw in the crowds, giving us even more opportunity to spread the word.
There is the opportunity for dressing up - hounds and humans, as well as the chance to raise money.
In Christchurch, we offered homemade scones with jam and clotted cream (keeping to the British theme) for a gold coin donation, which raised around $160. Elsewhere, there were prizes for blinged bandanas and raffles.
However many hounds took part in your local walks and however much money you raised, every dollar helps and every hound is a wonderful ambassador, helping to find homes for even more. So, onwards and upwards - your challenge for next year is for more walks, more hounds and more donations!
Written By Karen Wicks