Paws for a Cause: Derian House's Top Dog Challenge Raises Over £5,500
February was filled with wagging tails, muddy paws, and countless happy walks as dogs and their dedicated owners stepped up for Derian House's 'Top Dog' fundraising challenge. A determined pack of 20 pooches took on the impressive goal of walking 100km over the month, whether through daily neighbourhood strolls or adventurous hikes across scenic hills.
Together, these four-legged fundraisers proved they were truly 'Top Dog' by raising an incredible £5,597 for the children's hospice based in Chorley, Lancashire. The challenge showcased how everyday activities can be transformed into meaningful support for vital community services.
Personal Connections and Daily Walks Turned Purposeful
Callum White, 21, from Leigh in Greater Manchester, participated with his four-year-old French Bulldog, Skye. He shared his personal connection to the hospice: "Derian House means a lot to me and my family. My cousin used to go for many years until she passed away, but even after that, Derian House was still there to support our family."
Callum explained his motivation for joining the challenge: "Me and my girlfriend Salenia love going for walks with Skye so we thought taking part in Top Dog would be perfect. It makes sense to help Derian House as I've seen the amazing work that they do. We have been enjoying walking around our local park in Leigh, around Pennington Flash, and Rivington Pike."
Special Recognition for Furry Fundraisers
While every participant deserves a round of a-paws, several standout furry fundraisers fetched special recognition. Rolo, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, earned the award for 'FUR-thest Walked' after covering an impressive 168km with owner Cheryl. Meanwhile, Teddy the Labradoodle was voted "Picture Pawfect" on social media for his photogenic adventures.
The 'MUTTS' amount raised award went to German Shepherds Indi and Ava, both aged five, and their owner Donna from Charnock Richard. This dedicated trio brought in a dog-tastic £2,071.25 alone. Donna, who turns 60 in April, explained her participation: "I feel it's important to support our local children's hospice, they do such amazing work. I walk the dogs daily, so why not turn something so enjoyable into something worthwhile that will help raise funds to help the families Derian House cares for."
Transforming Daily Routines into Community Support
Donna described their walking adventures: "We've walked along roads and through fields locally. We also had a week's holiday in the Yorkshire Dales, where we did some beautiful walks with stunning views. Indi and Ava love to chase a ball on our walks, or to chew on a bone. After a good walk, they love to tuck into some chicken and duck chews – they also love a boiled egg."
She emphasized the simple yet powerful motivation behind her participation: "We didn't enter with any intention of winning anything. I just thought I could turn something we do every day into something positive."
Community Support Essential for Hospice Services
Ellie Smith, community fundraiser at Derian House, expressed gratitude for the participants: "Thank you to all of our furry fundraisers that took part in Top Dog for Derian House – and well done to the paw-tastic pups who won an award! It will cost £6 million to run services at Derian House in 2026. We rely heavily on the generosity our local community – and their precious pups – to make sure we can continue to provide care for our families."
Derian House cares for more than 400 babies, children, young people and their families from across the North West, helping them to make the most of every moment. The Top Dog challenge demonstrates how creative fundraising initiatives can engage community members while supporting essential hospice services that provide comfort and care during difficult times.
