A MAN from Solihull has set off on an epic drive through Europe, all in memory of his beloved dog Alma.
Nigel Patterson, who lives in Monkspath, is driving through Europe alongside his friend John Arthur in two old Peugeots to raise cash for Wythall Animal Sanctuary.
When Alma died, Nigel went to the sanctuary to donate her bedding and food.
He got chatting to the staff and asked how the sanctuary operates, and said he was shocked to find out they survive only on donations.
To channel his grief, he decided to redo the fundraising challenge he did for a children cancer ward in Birmingham in 2010.
He said: “Our beloved dog Alma was nearly two years old when we rescued her and she had such a bad start in life, but we had 13 fantastic years together and she travelled all over Europe with us. She filled three doggy passports and they were just the happiest of times.
“We loved her very much and she us.”
Wythall Animal Sanctuary is a non-destruct sanctuary and has been helping rescue and rehabilitate animals since 1968. It helps the animals who need it most by giving them a second chance at a forever home. Where this is not possible due to behavioural or medical reasons, the sanctuary is their forever home.
Nigel is hoping to raise £5,000 so the sanctuary can create a specialised quiet area for the dogs that are more sensitive and get easily overwhelmed and stressed with the comings and goings of daily life
Nigel added: “By creating these quiet spaces we can give the sensitive souls of the sanctuary a relaxing haven for them to enjoy the peaceful life they so deserve.
“We want to help so other animals don’t have to suffer like she did, give their residents tranquility and help to find their rescue animals good and loving homes.”
Nigel used Springfield Pet Crematorium to handle Alma’s passing and said the service they provided was amazing. They donated £200 to get the fund off the ground, and Nigel said he was so thankful.
Nigel and John set off on Wednesday (September 10) and will drive through France, Germany, Holland and Belgium in the next two weeks.
At the end of the drive, Nigel, alongside his wife, will be scattering Alma’s ashes in a place special to the family in Germany.
Nigel said: “There is no grief like losing a pet.
“She was such a special girl, and I am glad we can do this for her and her memory can live on.”
If you would like to help Nigel visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/almas-trust to donate or scan the QR code.