More than one million dogs die each year, leaving families heartbroken and grieving, yet unlike when a human passes away, there are few resources to help dog owners cope with their loss. In fact, according to new Dogs Trust data, one in ten people feel they have no one to turn to to share their grief around losing a dog.* Dogs Trust, which finds new homes for thousands of dogs every year, is organising its first ever Walk for Our Old Friends (WOOF) in Salcey Forest in the hope that bringing people together to share their cherished memories and the fun times they had with their canine companion will give owners the chance to celebrate the life of their dog and help owners come to terms with their loss.
The 3.5km walk will take place on Sunday 6 October between 4pm and 7pm. As walkers make their way through the forest, there will be moments for pause for remembrance and celebration.
The charity will also provide support resources for those participating with a team onsite as well as online information to help people cope with their loss. During the walk, there will be a designated area to leave heartfelt tributes or messages. Samantha Davis, one of the organisers of the event, says: “The love we have for our dogs can be a love like no other, yet there is very little support for people who have experienced pet bereavement.
“Our dogs are family members and their loss can be felt as deeply as human loss, with grief often being a very lonely and isolating experience. That’s w.