Sod turned at DDR rescue centre
DUNDALK Dog Rescue (DDR) celebrated a landmark day on Friday last, with the sod turning on the long awaited new rescue and rehoming centre.
‘It is a day that will go down in history for the DDR volunteers and most importantly, our founder, Ann Moore,’ said Bobby Wain.
‘It was the day we had our official ‘ turning of the sod’ the dream is finally coming true - our long-awaited rescue centre build is about to begin!’
He told the Argus that they had originally planned to have a huge celebration, inviting all of those who had been a important part of their journey.
Although Covid-19 restrictions dashed those hopes, the charity welcomed a number of their volunteers to toast the sod turning on the Dromiskin site.
‘We invited a small number of our volunteers; including our fundraising team, our dog walkers and our foster carers - to come along to join us in marking this momentous day.’
He added that it had been an important step after three years of tireless fundraising.
‘We all needed to see something tangible, to keep momentum going on this fundraising journey, as we have €100,000 still to raise. But it was a very special day to see Ann Moore turning the sod.’
‘One of our volunteers Aidan McCann captured some incredible photographs, which we’re really grateful for.’
Like so many charities, Dundalk Dog Rescue has suffered a huge fundraising loss because of restrictions put in place to curb the spread of Covid-19.
‘Fundraising events planned for April, May and June have all been cancelled and has had a huge impact on our funds. It has been an extremely tough time trying to keep on top of everything at the rescue,’ said Bobby.
They decided not to cancel the annual sponsored walk, which went virtual last weekend as dog owners and their furry friends took part in their own walks and posted pics to the DDR Facebook page.
The volunteers all paid tribute to ‘ the person who has been there every step of the way, who laid the foundations for the rescue; who is the foundation of the Rescue, and who is quite simply an inspiration to us all - Ann Moore - Friday belonged to you. We are all part of this team because of you. So many dogs are here today because of you. Your dream is coming true.’