Model and mini-dog hit new heights
LYTH-based model and business owner Natalie Oag raised charity cash by climbing up the highest peak in Wales last weekend along with her miniature dog.
Natalie, who owns the Horsin' Around riding stable, took on the 1085-metre Snowdon with her pet dog, and best friend, Louis Vuitton the Chihuahua – all for Children in Need.
"Louis did it again, he completed Snowdon in Wales," Natalie said. "The weather was beautiful with stunning views all around. There was a snack shop halfway up and another at the top of Snowdon along with a steam train that takes people up to see the views."
While admitting that Snowdon was a hard climb, Natalie said it was not as difficult as Ben Nevis which she completed with the mini-dog in 2016. "I would say Snowdon has to come in at second place on our hardest climbs so far for charity and the favourite due to the challenge and the views."
"Louis raised £5000 from his Ben Nevis climb which he did in aid of the Soi dog charity in China – helping to pay towards the veterinary centre helping injured dogs from the dog-meat trade. That was the one that got our Louis hooked on climbing, and what better way to raise money while doing something you enjoy?"
Natalie and Louis had a busy time last year climbing Ben Bhraggie, Morven and Maiden Pap as well as in Wester Ross – and all to raise funds for good causes.
This year they bagged Scaraben and have now climbed Snowdon – in temperatures that reached 30 degrees at times, said Natalie.
"Louis had lots of support from other climbers, commenting on how fit he was and how he was giving them inspiration when they were struggling to climb the high peak. Louis is always in the lead beside me in every climb with a big wag of his feather-duster tail. He just adores to climb and loves the open spaces."
With a Facebook page dedicated to the big-hearted pooch, Louis has raised thousands of pounds for Children in Need as well.
Natalie said: "Louis was a rescue dog from the SSPCA centre and very thin when I offered him a home. He would not walk on a lead and wanted to be carried everywhere. Now this little lapdog loves having long walks and enjoys his days away climbing these mountains for charity. This little dog has such a big heart and is loved by us all."
She recommends that anyone "in need of a good companion" should try their nearest dog shelter. "I could not imagine my life without my Louis Vuitton in it."