Broadcaster Laura Woods is urging supporters to put their best paw forward for Samaritans during World Mental Health Month.
Laura, with her miniature dachshund Cleo, is backing Walkies for Wellbeing, a nationwide challenge encouraging people to walk 100km during the month of October to raise funds and awareness for Samaritans.
Find more details or register for Walkies for Wellbeing here, which is supported by Village Vets.
Laura said: “I love going for walks with Cleo every day, and Walkies for Wellbeing is a great way to stay motivated, especially as the days get shorter. Spending time outdoors really boosts my mood and helps my wellbeing.
“I’m proud to support Samaritans, who do incredible work, answering over 400,000 calls each year from people struggling to cope or feeling suicidal.”
Sarah O'Toole, Samaritans Ireland, broadcaster Laura Woods, and Aisling Ryan, Village Vets, launching Walkies for Wellbeing
Research supports the benefits of outdoor activity for mental and physical wellbeing. The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) at Trinity College Dublin (2025) highlights the positive impact of regular dog walking, especially for older adults. Dog walkers tend to have better mobility, reduced fear of falling, and stronger social connections, it found.
An earlier 2019 TILDA study also found that dog owners who walked their pets at least three times per week had more active, social leisure activities and stronger social connections.
Sarah O’Toole, Executive Director of Samaritans Ireland, said: “Walkies for Wellbeing is a great way to boost your mental health while helping others. Just getting outside and connecting with family and friends, or even with a simple hello to someone, can make a big difference. This October, every cent raised will help us support those who are struggling to cope.”
Aisling Ryan, Marketing Director at Village Vets, said: “At Village Vets, caring for pets and their families goes hand in hand. We see every day the positive impact pets have on our lives, and Walkies for Wellbeing is a fantastic way to celebrate those benefits - for both pets and their owners - while also supporting the life-saving work of Samaritans.
"Just as daily walks keep our dogs healthy and happy, taking time for our own wellbeing is vital too. We’re proud to support Samaritans and encourage families, friends, and communities to put their best paw forward this October.”
Samaritans is available on freephone 116 123 or email [email protected]