Take the lead for mental health this spring

Calling the dogs of Norfolk and Waveney…

You know how much you enjoy walkies. When your owner says that magic word, your eyes light up – those trips to the park or round the neighbourhood are the highlights of your day.
Now think how happy it would make you to know that at the same time, you could help lots of humans feel happier too.

Norfolk and Waveney Mind’s Walkies for Wellbeing is the mental health charity’s returning fundraising challenge for March 2025. We are asking owners to walk their dogs a set distance during the month, we suggest one of the following distances: 50km, 75km or 100km - it doesn’t matter whether you are a Great Dane or a Chihuahua, you can choose what feels right for you. All funds raised will go towards running essential mental health services in Norfolk and Waveney.

If that isn’t enough of an incentive, we are offering a free Norfolk and Waveney Mind bandana for every dog who meets our fundraising target. And getting involved will bring benefits for your owners too – there are many known physical and mental health benefits linked to a daily dog walk.

So don’t paws for thought – sign up today. It’s a great way to keep fit, boost your owner’s wellbeing and raise money to help ensure no one in our region has to face poor mental health alone.

How do I take part?

Why is dog-walking good for owners?

• Lowers blood pressure and decreases stress – just walking 15 minutes a day can help reduce your blood pressure and stress levels, and give us enough fresh air and vitamin D to boost our moods, making us calmer and happier.

• Helps cardiovascular fitness and prevent obesity – humans and dogs both need a daily walk for cardio fitness and to avoid becoming obese. In dogs obesity can lead to illnesses such as osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease and liver disease. A daily walk can keep these problems at bay.

• Builds stronger muscles, bones and joints – physical activity strengthens us, and walking for 15-30 minutes a day helps prevent osteoporosis.

• Improves mental health – walking a dog provides thinking time and a chance to practise mindfulness, as well as strengthening the emotional ties between dogs and owners.

• Brings friendships – dogs break down social barriers between owners, who get to know each other and become friendly while their dogs play together.

• Forces good habits – studies suggest that having to walk a dog makes people more likely to walk on other occasions too, improving their fitness and mobility.

FAQ'S

We have some useful FAQs below, if you still have some questions please email our friendly fundraising team at fundraising@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk

What size are the dog bandanas?
Our dog banners should fit most sized dogs.
When will my dog get a bandana?
We will send you your dog bandana once you have raised £50.
What distance should my dog walk?
We know that every dog is different so we suggest choosing between 50km, 75km and 100km depending on what is best for your dog.
How can I keep track of the distance I've covered?
Strava, Fitbit or other fitness apps. We have a downloadable distance tracker for you to print off and mark each day. Share your progress with your friends and family to encourage sponsorship throughout the month.
What safety precautions should me and my dog take?
The safety of yourself and your dog is incredibly important when taking part in this fundraiser. We encourage you to think about the distance you walk per session and whether it is appropriate for your dog and it’s abilities, especially if they are still a puppy. If you have any concerns about your dog, please consult a vet. For more information, please see our T&Cs.

Downloadable Materials