Disabled pugs take river trip in canoe

Sally Brien and her dog Molly standing near the River Freshney in GrimsbyImage source, Lara King
Image caption,

Sally Brien's disabled pug Molly went on the river trip to teach children about disabilities

  • Published

Two disabled dogs have been taken for a river trip on a canoe to teach children about disability issues.

The pugs, Bella and Molly, joined children and Grimsby environmentalist James Elliot, known locally as the Canoe River Cleaner, on the River Freshney.

Molly is paralysed while Bella needs the help of wheels to get around.

The dogs' owner Sally Brien said: "I want children to know that because the dogs' legs do not work anymore it doesn't mean their life ends".

Image source, Lara King
Image caption,

James Elliot took disabled pugs Bella and Molly in his canoe

Ms Brien uses her pugs Molly and Bella to help promote mental health, often visiting nursing homes, schools and scout groups.

Mr Elliot took the children on the trip to learn about the river and the environment, as well as disability.

"It's all about wellbeing and nature based activities. It's important we keep kids and adults connected with nature," he said.

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