AMount Gambier couple and their furry friends are putting their best feet forward this month to raise money for a worthy cause.

Ashley and John Scanlon have been braving the cold to raise money for Guide Dogs Australia through the organisations ‘Pawgust’ initiative.

After stumbling across a sponsored advert for Pawgust online, the Scanlons decided to get involved with their Malamute Lacey and Siberian Husky Thea.

“I thought it would be a great way to raise much needed funds for Guide Dogs Australia and good motivation to get out and about in the cold August weather,” Mrs Scanlon said.

“It is an important cause because each guide dog can cost upwards of $50,000 to breed, raise and train as a lifeline for people who are vision impaired.

With August typically being the coldest month of the year, the couple has already faced windy and wet weather when stepping out for their daily stroll..

“Getting out and braving the cold and wet weather to raise funds for a good cause is the least we can do to support the initiative and help people who experience a loss of sight.”

Individuals joining Pawgust are challenged to walk 30 minutes each day to total 930 minutes for the month, with the ability to select a fundraising target.

Mrs Scanlon said the team had already completed a third of the required time in the first six days of August, putting them in a good position to exceed the walking goal.

“My husband and I set an achievable target of $500 each to support the cause with $428 currently raised as a team, but we are hopeful of exceeding the target as we get closer to completing our required walking time,” she said.

Visit www.pawgust.com.au/fundraisers/ashleyscanlon/ to donate or check in on Lacey and Thea’s Pawgust journey.