26th Mar, 2025
A FUNDRAISING animal fanatic from Leamington has set out on an ambitious 500km trek in aid of retired military and police dogs.
Max Herlihy, a 21-year-old student who has just graduated from his mathematics degree at Oxford University, will hike the distance over 20 days to raise funds for Hero Paws, a charity dedicated to rehoming and rehabilitating retired military and police dogs who face uncertain futures after years of loyal service.
Max and his fellow Oxford student Victoria Morris have set themselves the challenge of walking 25km per day to highlight the plight of service animals who often struggle to find homes after their working lives end.
Max said: “I love dogs, and no dogs deserve our help more than the ones Hero Paws supports. They have spent their lives serving with loyalty and love for those they see as their family. They don’t do it to be heroes, they don’t even understand what heroism is. They serve in the toughest, most dangerous situations simply because they love their people who are with them. “They deserve a retirement that reflects the selfless service they’ve given. I’m taking on this challenge to push myself, to step outside of my comfort zone, and most importantly, to do anything I can to make sure these incredible animals get the care they’ve earned.”
The pair began their journey on the border between Spain and Portugal on Saturday March 22 and continue their challenging route until April 16, carrying their equipment and documenting their journey on social media. They have already raised £1,000 but hope to significantly increase this amount to support Hero Paws’ essential work.
Victoria added: “I’m excited to undertake this challenge alongside Max. I know this walk will challenge us both, but I’m confident that we can do it with the knowledge that every step takes us closer to helping retired service dogs find the loving homes they deserve.”
Military and police dogs typically serve several years before retirement. While many handlers would like to adopt their partners, the significant medical and behavioural support these dogs often require can be prohibitively expensive. Hero Paws addresses this gap by providing financial assistance for veterinary care, behavioural training, and temporary fostering until permanent homes are found.
To donate visit heropawsuk.enthuse.com/pf/max-herlihy
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