Every Dougal has its day
Local resident and SPCA mascot is hoping to raise funds for the organisation as its annual trail run approaches.
DALE Johnson is no slouch when it comes to trail running. However, at the end of this month, he is going be baring his paws for a cause to run 14km to raise funds for the SPCA. While that sounds reasonably doable, the Glen Hills resident is going one step further and will be doing the run dressed as the organisation’s mascot, Dougal.
A doit4charity page (www.doit4charity.co.za/Dale_Dougal.Johnson) has also been set up for Johnson, and he is encouraging residents to support his venture.
“Last year was a load of fun when I played mascot for the SPCA. I particularly enjoyed barking at the runners as they made their last dash along the finish straight. Caroline Smith asked me to join, and I was only too happy to help out. This year I decided, instead of chasing runners at the finish line, let me swap my paws for a pair of running shoes,” he enthused.
“I’ve decided to run 14km to challenge myself and to help out. I don’t have any pets of my own, and the SPCA does fantastic work for the local community and the country, and I feel like we need to support them as much as we can. It’s good to be giving back, and what could be more fitting than a dog costume?” he said.
The dog outfit, complete with a helmet and paws, while not heavy, is ‘quite warm’, says Johnson. Visibility is also limited, with the nose acting as a lookout point.
“I think the tricky bit will be seeing where I’m going and crossing a bridge over a river in the costume. That’s going to be interesting. The head is a little bulky, but I’m sure I will be fine, even Fido has backed me to win,” he said.
The annual SPCA Trail Run is in its third year, and general manager of the Durban & Coast SPCA, Caroline Smith, urges residents and families to support the cause. The trail offers a 5km and 14km route.
Race Deets: The SPCA Trail Run takes place on Sunday, 30 August. The cost to enter is R50 per person (5km) or R100 per person (14km) including biscuits and coffee/juice. Proceeds go towards the cost of caring for lost, abandoned and abused animals at the Durban & Coast SPCA. Participants are free to bring a packet or tin of pet food on the day to make your caring go even further. All entrants must register to take part. Registration opens 6am. Contact Lindsey on 031 579 6546 or email lindsey@spcadbn.org.za for more information.
