For most people, dog-walking is a solitary pastime, but the Paws and Pals community dog-walking network is changing things, up in Aberystwyth.
The group was started by Mirus, a non-profit charity organisation that supports children and adults of all ages with disabilities to live fulfilled, positive lives.
The project began when the team was gathering feedback from the people they support. Strong themes emerged that they wanted to spend time with dogs and socialise more in the local community. While the Mirus team initially looked into existing local groups, the support required for people with a learning disability meant nothing quite suited their needs. So, with some funding from Mind Aberystwyth’s Side by Side project, Mirus decided to create their own social dog walking network with Paws and Pals.
Area Manager Sally Bathurst says that the project has made a real difference in the community so far and hopes the group will grow further.
“Our overall aim is to make sure that people with a learning disability have the opportunity to be more involved in community life – they have a lot to offer and equally the community has a lot to offer back too. Everyone who has joined Paws and Pals has benefitted from being a part of the group. It’s a great way to meet new people, enhance social skills, stay active and spend time with animals, which many people don’t have the opportunity to do at home due to their own needs.
Obviously, the pandemic has made it hard to plan too far ahead, but going forward we hope to host an event to promote what we’re doing and get more people to join in. We’d also love to be able to offer dog walking for those who struggle to exercise their own pets.”
The group is inclusive of everyone and all Paws and Pals routes are all carefully chosen to be fully accessible to wheelchair users and those who have mobility issues. The walks take place around the Aberystwyth area, often along cycle paths and the promenade.
While meeting up was all a bit more relaxed before Covid-19, the group now have to be more mindful of the number of people on each walk. Walkers are asked to message Paws and Pals beforehand, so that everyone stays safe. Now, if you’re up for a stroll down the prom with some very good company, head over to the Paws and Pals Facebook page to book your spot and keep up with all their latest news.
