Training? I'd rather walk dog!
TOUGH rugby players are taking time off from training - to take the dog for a walk!
Rotherham Titans stars are lending a helping hand at Rotherham Dog Rescue by walking pooches taken in after being abandoned or neglected.
The players got involved with the charity last year and now find time during their training schedule to visit the kennels voluntarily.
Some have become so fond of the dogs they have offered them new homes themselves.
Nigel Conroy, front row player for the Titans, said: "About three or four of us go up and help with the dog walking - it's even been known for a couple of the rescue dogs to come along and get involved with training sessions at the club!
"When we take the dogs out for a walk, people sometimes come up to us - but usually they're more interested in the dogs than us."
Nigel said he first got involved with the rescue centre when he adopted an unwanted dog as a pet.
"After a time we were advised the animal we had adopted needed some companionship and, as a result, contacted Rotherham Dog Rescue.
"We were able to help a second animal and provided foster care for it. Since then a number of the players have got involved."
Rotherham Dog Rescue runs a fostering programme, which encourages experienced dog handlers to help re-train animals and prepare them for a permanent new owner.
Canine consultant Lisa Park said: "We're based in Rotherham but have received emergency enquiries from much further afield - even as far away as Rochdale and Birmingham."
The service, which helps find new homes for around 200 dogs a year, has launched a 1 million appeal to fund a new rescue centre in Rotherham. To get involved call 07972 925 787.
READ MORE
Back to main news index.
Latest video reports
Traffic and travel information.
Check out the jams on Sheffield's traffic cameras.
Today's features.
Books of condolence.
Pictures.
More Barnsley news.
More Rotherham news.
More Doncaster news.
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Sheffield
Wednesday 23 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 13 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 7 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 11 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
