From Rescue and Parkruns to Following my Wheels

Volunteer, Lynn Tarrant, reflects on her very special bond with CareDog, Minnie. From running with Lynn at Parkruns, to chasing her wheelchair following a bad accident, Minnie has been Lynn’s little rock…and a hit with our clients, too!

Minnie came into my life at a very sad time, and she’s been my little rock.

Minnie didn’t have the best start in life. Her first owners didn’t really understand a puppy’s needs, so she was left alone for long periods while they were working and, inevitably, had accidents. They then put her in a garage by herself for long stretches.

Thankfully, a friend of mine rescued her, and when my husband and I met her in October 2015, we instantly fell for her.

Sadly, my husband suddenly died in January 2016. By June, my friends were looking for a new home for Minnie and suggested I might like the company. I worked full time and had never owned a dog, but I agreed to a week’s trial — and that’s when my little companion arrived in my life.

She didn’t go back after the trial, and we began having lots of adventures together. I ran Parkrun regularly and Minnie came with me. We joined an agility group and she was very good. We also travelled in the campervan, and she loved curling up in the van.

Just before COVID, I had a bad accident and now find myself in a wheelchair. We also moved in with my mum, who is now 95. Minnie proved herself to be a loyal and patient friend — lying for days on my bed when I couldn’t get up, slowly walking with me when I was hobbling on crutches, always at my side. Even now, people laugh at how closely she follows my wheelchair.

Lynn and Minnie, volunteering at our community walks with Lewisham and Croydon Mencap

She loves her Grandma too, and spends her evenings on Grandma’s lap, giving and receiving cuddles.

I was missing doing things with Minnie, and she missed being with other dogs and people. She still wants to follow runners in the park and looks back at me as if to say, “Come on, Mum!” So when I saw the CareDogs advert, I was excited that we could do something together again — and that I could share Minnie’s loving, playful nature with others who may need comfort or cheering up. We both love volunteering at the CareDogs walks and hope to do many more.

Lynn Tarrant
June 2025