It’s not every eight-year-old that goes out of their way to help animals on the other side of the world, but when little Rhys saw a moving documentary about the dog meat trade in parts of Asia, he wanted to act.
He immediately asked his mum, Linda, how he could help.
A charitable mission
Together, they hatched a plan to fundraise and donate the money to China Rescue Dogs – an American charity that aims to help stray dogs in China avoid the meat trade.
After thinking long and hard, Rhys decided a sponsored bike ride could be perfect, but he knew he had to put the effort in if he wanted to earn big so made the decision to cycle a whopping 100 miles.
To make up the miles, Rhys cycled to school and back every day and ran regular errands for family and friends.
A dog named Lola
The China Dog Rescue heard about his mission, and to give him an extra incentive, they told him all about a dog named Lola.
Lola is a Siberian Husky who was rescued with severe malnutrition and skin disease and is now a happy, healthy dog living with her new forever family.
The cost to rehabilitate and transport Lola to her new home was $2,500, and Rhys had this as his target amount. But, thanks to his dedication and commitment, the eventual amount raised was a whopping $8,500!
Well done Rhys, the dogs are lucky to have you.
