Plea as volunteers’ shortage could deprive Beth the dog from her regular walks

June Hamilton, 73, of Blackhall, and her 12-year-old Jack Russell Beth are inseparable.

But the retired senior carer suffers from arthritis and has not been able to take her on long walks like she used to.

Local dog walking volunteers stepped in to help the pair.

One walker is moving away, however, meaning there might be days when Beth, who is blind, won’t be able to go out.

The Cinnamon Trust which offers pet care for elderly and poorly owners, has now issued a plea for more support.

June said the charity is “the best thing ever” and has helped her dog’s well-being, adding: "Half the time when she doesn’t go out, she just lies, feeling sorry for herself.

"But she knows, that day, what time they’d be coming and she goes and lies in the dining room and looks at the back door.”

June added: "I know Bethy could go to another home, but no. I’ve had her since she was a baby.

"It really hurts knowing that I can’t take her out. When somebody’s there to take her out, it really helps.

"I’m so grateful that people can help.”

Volunteer Louise Fenwick, 56, from Peterlee, has been taking Beth for walks since last summer.

She said: “I’ve been looking forward to my Saturday morning walks with Beth. She’s absolutely gorgeous and I enjoy my chats with June as well.

"It gets you out in the fresh air. I know people on my route now. I’ve got half a dozen friends, maybe more, that I can say hello to.

"I know their names and their dogs’ names.

“It’s opened a new little window in my life,” Louise said.

June has described Beth as a bit “fussy” because she sometimes likes to be carried and has revealed her pet also has a slightly cheeky personality.

June said: "She loves people, once she gets to know them, but she doesn’t like other dogs.

"She’s allergic to grass. And what does she roll in? Grass!,” June laughed.

Download a volunteer registration form from the Cinnamon Trust’s website at www.cinnamon.org.uk or

email the charity at [email protected].

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