A WOMAN will be power walking a full marathon along the streets of Worcester next month to raise cash for retired police dogs (RPD) in memory of her beloved German Shepherd Murphy.
Jill Byrne has worked with West Mercia Police’s dog section for around two decades, and during that time, she has taken on three RPDs.
The last of her dogs, a German Shepherd called Murphy, passed away aged 14 in January.
On April 21, Jill will be walking a marathon around the rivers, streets and canals in Worcester to raise vital funds for the West Mercia Retired Police Dogs Fund.
Cash raised will go towards providing support for the veterinary needs and ongoing care of retired police dogs, including vet bills, hydrotherapy and laser therapy.
So far, over £960 has been raised via a GoFundMe page, with 32 people donating.
She has been training for several months and is currently managing to complete 22 miles.
Jill said: “Since the fund was set up, I have benefitted from some donations towards Murphy’s vet bills, including some wheels so Murphy was able to get out and be independent on his walks and runs in his senior years.
“In November, Murphy enjoyed his few days away in Devon at a few beaches on his wheels.
“Once a PD retires, it is no longer looked after by the police and they cannot be insured, so all vet bills are funded by the new owner.
“We have to continue ways of raising funds so we can support our retirees.
“They deserve the very best in their retirement, sometimes at a younger age due to injury.”
Visit www.gofundme.com/f/jills-marathon-walk-for-retired-police-dogs? to donate.
