Regular Bicycles Create Change readers know I am a ‘dog-person’ – as many of us are.
I have a trail dog, Zoe (who is the best MTB partner EVER!) and my Instagram #Bikes_CISTA initiative involves celebrating local riders with their pooches and bikes.
A while ago, I posted the adventures of little Xiaosa, the tiny stray dog that joined a team of riders on a 20 day, 1,833km graduation ride across China from Sichuan province to Tibet and became an internet sensation – it is such a sweet little story!
…so, I am delighted to see the US-based Riding for Rescues, inviting other riders to put their cycling kms towards supporting animals in need.
It is also great to see an alternative cycling fundraiser that is not the large-scale, long-distance charity, road-riding fundraiser – that model has been totally (over)done!
What is Riding for Rescues?
Riding for Rescues in affiliated with Running for Rescues – both of which raise money to help, rescue and sponsor animals to get them out of a high-kill shelter and be re-homed instead of being put down.
To date, they have rescued over 40 animals.
See some of the lucky ones below or click for more here.
What is the money for?
Riding for Rescues donates all funds received to small, grassroots frontline NGOs that are dealing firsthand with pulling animals out of shelters before they are put to sleep.
The cost associated with these interventions can be very high – and not many people stop to think about this aspect of animal welfare – things such as getting shots, healthcare costs, getting an animal neutered, transportation, boarding and/or food while the animal is being fostered.
How to use my cycling to help?
The Riding for Rescue approach is super easy as you can pick whatever cycling event , where ever you want and fundraise independently – so you can do it when and where it suits you.
It is a terrific model of practice and very easy to use.
Step 1. Go to www.firstgiving.com and set up your page.
Step 2. Tell all your friends and family know that YOU are going to put yourself out there and make a difference – all to benefit an animal who would otherwise be euthanized.
The you raise more than US$500, RfR will give you one of their cycling jerseys (see below)
I applaud those who give this a try.
I think there is great merit in utilising riding to support animals in need – and where the animals are rehoused into households where they will make a super positive difference – personally, emotionally, health, fitness and happiness wise. Why not lend your legs for this oft-forgotten good cause?
Congratulations to the Riding for Rescue team for having the enthusiasm, dedication and passion to keep this humble, yet highly important service going. I salute you!
Here is their offical website.
They are also on FB, Twitter, G+ and IG.
For more info contact: jodi@runningforrescues.com