Vet to cycle across South America for cat charity
“Although I’m a keen cyclist, I’ve never done anything like this before, but I’m really looking forward to it” – David Hodges.
A veterinary surgeon is preparing to cycle 1,060 miles across South America to raise money for a local cat charity.
David Hodges, from the independent practice Stellar Vets in Littlehampton, West Sussex, will start his journey on the Pacific coast of Chile in the second week of January.
His route will take him over the Andes mountain range and across the continent to Buenos Aires on the east coast of Argentina in just nine days.
A GoFundMe page has been set up, with the aim of raising £5,000 for Worthing Cat Welfare. The charity cares for abandoned and unwanted cats in the local area, including arranging veterinary care and finding the cats new homes.
Dr Hodges said: “The idea for this ride came about after a conversation with some friends from university who all enjoy a challenge and wanted to raise money for various charities and good causes.
“Although I’m a keen cyclist, I’ve never done anything like this before, but I’m really looking forward to it. I’m currently training hard and covering at least 60 miles every Saturday and Sunday, as well as around 40 miles every evening, in preparation for cycling more than 100 miles each day during the ride.”
Allison Pyett, from Worthing Cat Welfare, said: “When David told us about this latest fundraising challenge, we couldn’t believe it. It’s extraordinary, and especially because every penny makes a difference, so it has the potential to help the cats we care for even more.”
Image © David Hodges
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
