Kinross Olympian Laura Muir going the extra mile to help animals in need

Pound for Paws running challenge to boost Scottish SPCA

Olympic athlete Laura Muir will champion a charity’s running challenge – to help raise money for Scotland’s animals in need.

Middle-distance star Muir, 27, who qualified as a vet from Glasgow University, has a long-running relationship with the Scottish SPCA.

The charity’s Pound for Paws with Laura Muir event will take place throughout August, and challenges participants to run a minimum of 30km in 30 days.

Dundee Hawkhill Harrier Laura, who has previously spoken of her love for animals, said: “I’m honoured to be part of the Scottish SPCA’s Pound for Paws event.

“As

aqualified vet,

I’m passionate about animals and their welfare, so the society has always been very close to my heart.

“This summer, I should have been representing Team GB at the Olympic Games in Japan. As the games have been postponed until 2021, I’m challenging members of the public to take part in Pound for Paws.

“I’m inviting people at all stages of running, from the complete beginner to the more experienced, to run a minimum of 30km in 30 days.

“It’s a great way to raise money for a fantastic cause and keep fit. I’m going to be helping participants along the way with tips and encouragement.

“I’ll also be tracking their progress on our online leader board. We’re hoping this will ignite people’s competitive spirit.

“It’s for individuals, families and running groups. We want as many people as possible to take part.

“Your dog can get involved, too, if you regularly run with your pooch.

“We’d love for some canicross groups to take part. Please do make sure you consult a vet before doing any activity with your pet.”

Laura, from Kinross, qualified as a vet in 2018, and has since become one of Scotland’s highest-profile female athletes, winning a string of middledistance titles.

She had been tipped for Olympic glory at Tokyo 2020 by running legend Sebastian Coe, before the event fell victim to the coronavirus pandemic.

Despite her gruelling training schedule, she has maintained a desire to combine athletics with her passion for animals.

Laura, who posed with dog Jess to launch Pound for Paws, added: “Since lockdown, the Scottish SPCA has dealt with more than 10,000 reports of animals in need.

“Support from members of the public is vital to be able to continue to deliver their essential services to help Scotland’s animals.

“I’m so pleased that I’m able to help a cause I care so much for at this crucial time and encourage people to get active.”

To find out more about Pound for Paws with Laura Muir or sign up for the event, please visit www.scottishspca. org/PoundforPaws.

Laura and Jess at the launch of Pound for Paws.