The dog days are over for a cute little Colombian Golden Retriever who is set to be the Grand Marshal of this year’s Clondalkin St Patrick’s Day Parade.
When local couple Fiona Barry and Keith Ward set off on their dream trip around the world they never imagined they’d bring an extra special friend home with them.
Keith explained to Dublin Gazette how their dog Uimhir a Do has been chosen to do honours on Paddy’s Day.
“We’re delighted, along with our gorgeous Colombian pup Uimhir a Do (or Uimhy) to be the Grand Marshal of this year’s Clondalkin St Patrick’s day parade,” he said.
“This honour not only gives Uimhy a great day out, but also gives us an opportunity to highlight animal cruelty both in Ireland and abroad.
“For those who aren’t familiar with our story, Uimhy was rescued from a glass box, without food and water in a cruel pet shop in Bogota, Colombia in October.
“We discovered both her and her sister while backpacking through South America.
“Sadly due to their prior mistreatment both of them contracted the deadly Parvo virus.
“Uimhy’s sister, Gracie, sadly didn’t survive, however with the help of so many generous donations, many from Clondalkin, we were able to get Uimhy back to Ireland.
“She now leads a happy and safe life in Clondalkin with us.
“Again, we’re overwhelmed that Uimhy gets to represent the town of Clondalkin, a town she now calls home.
“Thank you Councillor Francis Timmons and to the other members of the St. Patrick’s Day committee for their support.”
Cllr Francis Timmons says he’s already looking forward to next month’s festivities.
‘’The public have spoken, and this year have voted for Uimhir a Do to lead the 2020 Parade with his owners former FM 104 radio host and Clondalkin local Keith Ward and his partner Fiona Barry,” he said.
“They follow in the steps of Mary Kennedy, Mary Dardis, Colm Gavin, Gemma and Philip Carr, this year’s parade has already nearly 30 entries.
“I am delighted we will have two top bands – Clondalkin youth band and the Clondalkin Pipe Band.”
For more info on Uimhy’s story, checkout @blanktrails on instagram.
