Inspirational schoolgirl raises £720 in charity challenge

08 June 2022

A kind-hearted schoolgirl from Manchester put her best foot forward to raise vital funds for PDSA after her local Pet Wellbeing Centre, The Montague-Panton Hospital, provided emergency treatment for her relative’s beloved dog.

Gabrielle Davis, who hopes to become a vet when she grows up, collected an impressive £720 when she ran the 1.5km course around Etihad Stadium, cheered on by her proud parents Adam and Sara.

The eight-year-old’s generous donation will enable PDSA to continue to provide essential treatment to pets whose owners struggle to cover the cost of veterinary bills.

Explaining the motivation behind her charity challenge, Gabrielle said: “I saw a poster for the Mini Manchester Run and wanted to sign up to raise money for poorly animals who are helped by PDSA. I really enjoyed taking part and raising money to help people’s pets. When I am older I want to become a vet so I can help lots of animals.”

Commenting on his daughter’s achievement, Adam said: “We couldn’t be more proud of Gabrielle. She has always been a kind and caring girl and absolutely loves animals so when she said she wanted to raise money for PDSA we thought it was a great idea.

“The work PDSA does for pets and their owners is incredible and, as a family, we can’t thank the team enough for saving the life of our family member’s dog. The dog is doing really well now and is looking forward to a happy and healthy life.”

Rachel Smith, Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Manchester PDSA Pet Wellbeing Centre, The Montague-Panton Hospital, added: “Gabrielle is an inspirational girl and we are extremely grateful for her support. Her generous fundraising efforts will enable us to continue our life-saving work, treating pets whose owners have nowhere else to turn. Donations such as this really do make a difference to the lives of owners and their pets. It is thanks to the incredible support of the community that we are able to provide vital treatment for poorly animals.”

So far Gabrielle’s JustGiving page has reached £720.