Live-saving dog Lola to support Derian House at Wags and Wellies

A life-saving dog will add another string to her bow, as she will be helping to raise funds for disabled and terminally ill children.
By The Newsroom
Published 3rd Mar 2017, 09:27 BST
Updated 24th Mar 2017, 10:49 BST
Derian House mascot Danni and Lola and FleurDerian House mascot Danni and Lola and Fleur
Derian House mascot Danni and Lola and Fleur

Lola, a Hungarian Vizsla, is in training to become an International Search and Rescue (ISAR) dog, but has found time to take part in Wags and Wellies, a two-mile walk around Cuerden Park, in aid of Derian House Children’s Hospice.The 20-month-old, handled and owned by firefighter Lindsay Sielski, will be joined by her younger sister, Fleur and her mum, six-year-old Lilly.Lola and Fleur are already well known, as they featured on Purina dog food packaging across Europe and even have their own casting agent for any future publicity work.Lindsay, of Bamber Bridge, said: “Eventually, Lola will be sent into collapsed buildings and piles of rubble to locate anyone who may be trapped and alert rescuers by barking.“I’ve been training Lola for over a year now and she just loves her job. When she finds someone in rubble in training exercises she barks and barks until she’s rewarded with her toy. Plus, she’s become the ‘station dog’ at Preston Fire Station where I’m based and all my colleagues love her because she’s such a character.”Lindsay, mum to three-year-old Luca, will also be taking her other Vizsla, six-year-old Frieda, to the fund-raiser and has been spreading the word about Wags and Wellies to her fellow trainers and dog-walking pals.The 32-year-old, who has been a firefighter for 11 years, said: “Wags and Wellies is a great way to unite local dog owners and help dog walkers make new friends.“It’s for a great cause – one that’s close to so many people’s hearts both in this area and beyond. Derian House touches the lives of families when they most need their specialised help and support and it’s great that dog-lovers can show their support.“I have been around dogs all my life. Hungarian Vizslas are the ideal companions for my husband and I. They just never tire – they’re always ready to do something, whether that’s a two-hour walk or an agility course.”Wags and Wellies, a two-mile stroll with dogs, will be held at Cuerden Park on March 19. Registration is 9.30am. Entry is from £85.50 for one dog to £16.85 for three dogs.There will be stalls to interest everyone with a love of dogs – from hand-made dog biscuits to a dog-bola (a raffle with prizes themes around man’s best friend), to all manner of dog goodies.Every dog who takes part will receive a handcrafted Derian bow tie to attach to their collar and there will be a chance to have your picture taken at the doggy photo booth. Visit http://www.derianhouse.co.uk to sign up and take part.

To read a previous article on Wags and Wellies click here http://www.lep.co.uk/news/dog-tails-at-the-ready-for-wags-and-wellies-derian-house-fund-raiser-1-8369572