Sausage dogs steal the show at charity’s Summer Social in Bedfordshire
Sausage dogs enjoyed their moment in the spotlight as owners and supporters gathered in Bedfordshire for a celebration of the much-loved breed.
The Red Foundation’s Summer Social brought dachshund devotees to Stuart Memorial Hall in Tempsford on Saturday, August 29, for a day of fun that also helped support vulnerable dogs across the UK.
Demonstrations, a fun dog show, stalls, a tombola and food and drink formed part of the family-friendly event, with plenty to keep both two-legged visitors and their four-legged companions entertained.
Pictures from the day capture sausage dogs enjoying the occasion, while owners and supporters filled a packed room to hear expert talks. Alongside the entertainment, the event offered an opportunity to learn more about the dogs’ needs and the charity’s work.
Behind the happy gathering is a rescue organisation founded after one heartbreaking online advert brought a community together.
In 2017, lifelong dachshund lover Vicky Wilson, from Sudbury, Suffolk, spotted an 18-month-old dog called Red being offered for sale with the words: “£250 gets her.”
Concerned about the frightened dog’s circumstances, Vicky appealed to fellow dachshund lovers through social media. Their donations secured Red’s rescue and raised enough money to begin helping other dogs too.
“Red changed far more lives than anyone could ever have imagined,” said Vicky.
“She was one little dog who brought an entire community together. People wanted to save her because they could see she deserved better, and once she was safe we realised there were so many more dachshunds just like her who desperately needed help. That's how The Red Foundation began.”
Today, the charity operates throughout the UK, helping dachshunds whose owners can no longer care for them because of illness, bereavement, financial hardship or changes in family circumstances.
It carefully assesses prospective adopters and provides ongoing support, recognising that dogs arriving in rescue may need time, patience and understanding to feel secure in a new home.
The charity also covers lifetime veterinary costs relating to dogs’ pre-existing conditions, helping remove a significant barrier to adoption.
The Red Foundation is part of the Pet Remedy Rescue map and works with the calming brand to support dogs as they settle into their new homes.
Every adopted dog receives a Pet Remedy welcome pack, while new owners are offered behavioural guidance, including a Pet Remedy-supported welcome video explaining what to expect during those important first days.
“We don't just hand over a dog and wish people luck,” said Vicky.
“We're there before, during and after the adoption because that's what these dogs deserve. Rescue is about giving them the very best chance of succeeding in their forever home.”
Following the Summer Social, supporters can look forward to the charity’s Wiener Wonderland on Sunday, November 8, at Great Sutton Village Hall, with festive entertainment, stalls, food and drink, a fun dog show and a tombola.
For details go to https://theredfoundation.org.uk
