German Shepherds lead rescue charity walk in Tidworth

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More than a dozen dogs took part in a winter walk in Tidworth to raise funds for a German Shepherd rescue charity.

The German Shepherd Rescue South event, held in Wiltshire, saw more than a dozen German Shepherds and Malinois gather at the Tidworth House Polo Grounds on Sunday, January 4, for the charity's first social walk of 2026.

Katy Chignell, organiser of the walk, said: "So lovely to meet so many beautiful and handsome shepherds and Malinois, who were absolutely brilliant as were their humans."

Max and Jax (Image: Katy Chignell)

"A huge thanks to everyone for their generosity, we raised an amazing total of £128.83.

"Every penny makes such a difference to our special dogs awaiting their forever homes."

The walk was led by Max, a rescue success story rehomed by German Shepherd Rescue South.

Max arrived at the rescue at 17 months old, having already had two previous owners and no socialisation.

He spent his days alone in a garden with no enrichment.

Since being adopted in April 2021, Max has grown into a well-loved companion, enjoying belly rubs, countryside walks, and of course, playing with a ball, though he still isn’t fond of cats or squirrels.

Another dog, Jax, also joined the walk.

Jax has had three owners and spent most of his life confined to a cage before arriving at the rescue in summer 2025.

He arrived with untreated skin issues, no vaccinations, and wasn’t microchipped.

After three months with his foster family, Jax’s health has greatly improved.

He now enjoys meeting people, going on walks, and learning new things.

Ms Chignell said: "Max, according to his humans, has been a lot of hard work and wasn't for the faint-hearted, but they won't be without our boy."

Julie Stoney was recognised for her help in organising the walk, and Mandy Robinson was thanked for her support on the day.

The charity also expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces Community Hub for allowing them to use the ‘stunning’ Tedworth House grounds.

The next social walk will take place on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

Attendees are asked to meet at 9.45am in the middle car park, next to the Community Hub, for a 10am start.

The walk follows the heritage trail and will be followed by refreshments, cake, and a raffle.

Other upcoming walks include Sunday, March 1 in Wiltshire, Sunday, March 22 in Whiteley, and a second Wiltshire walk on Sunday, March 29.

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