An Animal lover with a large social media following has raised £42,000 for the PDSA by climbing Ben Nevis with two of his springer spaniels.
Kerry Irving from Keswick completed the challenge with spaniels Paddy and Harry at the end of July, despite suffering on-going pain following a car accident in 2006.
Kerry’s third dog Max, the subject of ‘Max the Miracle Dog’ a book about his experiences of beating depression and pain following the accident, waited at the bottom of the mountain as he is now a lit
tle too old for lengthy adventures.
Kerry said: “Hiking up Ben Nevis was a challenge that I once would have considered physically impossible following my accident. I decided to take it on as a chance to not only face my fear but also shine a spotlight on the work of PDSA, which works tirelessly every day to care for pets and protect the vital bond between pets and owners.
“I know first-hand how important that bond is – if it wasn’t for Max, I wouldn’t be here today.”
Kerry uses his far-reaching social media influence to fundraise and raise awareness for charities close to his heart, especially PDSA, which provides free and low cost veterinary care to people and pets in need.
Nigel Spencer, director of fundraising at PDSA, said: “Thanks to Kerry and the boys’ loyal and generous Facebook followers, Kerry is able to share his love of PDSA with the thousands, for which we are hugely grateful. The support of Kerry, his canines and everyone who has donated means the world to us, particularly as the charity is facing a funding crisis.”
