A Morden paramedic is planning a trip to Sierra Leone to deliver a mobile veterinary clinic to save stray dogs from cruelty and neglect.
Mark Whitfield, 33, who fixed the vehicle himself, sought advice from the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) as to where his support would be most needed.
He was put in touch with the Sierra Leone Animal Welfare Society (SLAWS) and is now set to meet local vet Dr Jalloh and his team to present them with the vehicle, which will be used to drive through Sierra Leone and help stray dogs wherever possible.
Mr Whitfield said: “I have always loved dogs and it just seems a shame that sometimes they get forgotten in times of poverty and war, especially if no one takes responsibility for them.
“The dogs are running freely all over Freetown in Sierra Leone, starving and riddled with diseases. They are a health hazard to the people that live alongside them, who mostly see the dogs as a nuisance. Those people that do want to help the dogs can either not afford to do so, or simply do know what they should do to help.”
To find out more go to wspa.org.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here