Schnauzerfest came into my life in 2017 and I learnt a lot on my first walk. Some were there with puppy farm survivors, each with their own story. I was aware of puppy farms but naive to the horrors breeding dogs endure, surviving and often dying a few feet from where they are born. I won a raffle prize that day, and chose a book written by Janetta Harvey about Susie-Belle, the inspiration behind Schnauzerfest, reading it cover to cover that day.
I loved the whole ethos of fun, fundraising and raising awareness that’s at the core of Schnauzerfest and knew this was something more than a bit special. I wanted to play my part by contributing in any way, alongside some pretty special people.
In 2018 we adopted Bella, then Mabel, both puppy farm survivors who benefitted from Schnauzerfest funding. We later went on to adopt Alfie, sadly we lost Bella and Mabel within a few weeks of each other, and Alfie late in 2025 after sharing just 3 years together. Today we share our lives with Bea, an ex-breeding dog, and Higgins, who was a puppy when he was taken into rescue.
I help Schnauzerfest anywhere I can be of use. Photography is a hobby (I have all the gear, but no idea, and will one day read the manual). My photos are like the way I approach life, go for volume and hope for the best.
A trustee role is very exciting, as I join thousands of passionate Schnauzerfesters who are generous in so many ways, making a difference to the dogs who really do need our help.
Anne Barlow