Last Updated on July 25, 2024 by Dogs Vets
Heartbroken Dog Owner Organizes Charity Event in Memory of Beloved Pet Lost to Alabama Rot
A grieving dog owner, Shaun Reynolds, has turned his heartache into action by organizing a charity event to raise funds and awareness for the fight against Alabama Rot, a deadly disease that recently claimed the life of his cherished pet, Willow.
A Celebration of Willow Charity Event
Reynolds, who lost his whippet Willow to Alabama Rot, has planned ‘A Celebration of Willow,’ a charity whippet racing event set to take place at Lambourn Sports Club on Saturday, August 31, from 5 pm. The football field at the club will be transformed into a special race track for the event.
The event will feature seven races, performances by a three-piece Irish folk band, inflatable games, a raffle, an after-party, and team competitions with various prizes. Admission is £5 for adults and £1 for under-18s.
Shaun Reynolds’ Devastating Loss
Willow contracted Alabama Rot, a rare and fatal disease with no known cure. Despite receiving 24/7 treatment from the world’s leading veterinary team for Alabama Rot, Willow’s condition worsened, and she passed away on March 5.
Shaun, a former Swindon Advertiser sports reporter, has since raised £9,500 for the Alabama Rot Research Fund, the only charity dedicated to finding a cure for the disease, which has been diagnosed in 324 dogs in the UK.
Raising Awareness and Funds
“The support and donations since Willow’s death have been incredibly touching,” Shaun shared. “Losing her to such a rare and awful disease was devastating.
We exhausted all our resources to fund her treatment, but despite the veterinary team’s efforts, she couldn’t overcome it. I want Willow’s legacy to help save other dogs by raising awareness about Alabama Rot and its prevention.”
Understanding Alabama Rot
Currently, there is no cure for Alabama Rot, and it cannot be diagnosed in living dogs. The disease, which mainly affects dogs walked in wet, muddy, woodland areas, is most prevalent between November and May. Symptoms include an unexplained limp, followed by skin sores, sickness, and lethargy. Owners are advised to wash their dog’s paws after walks to reduce the risk.
“Dog Owner Fights On After Tragic Loss to Alabama Rot”
Shaun’s dedication to fighting Alabama Rot and honoring Willow’s memory is a testament to his love for his pet and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of other dogs and their owners.
For more information about the event and to support the cause, visit the Alabama Rot Research Fund website.
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