Dog rescue mission: Malaga boy meets shelter dogs before embarking on world cycle

Samuel, a 12-year-old boy preparing to embark on a world cycling journey of over 20,000 kilometres, visited an animal rescue centre in Mijas, Spain on November 2. The centre, ACE-SHIN, houses more than 500 dogs in need of loving homes. Samuel, a key figure behind the Samuel Cycles the World project, greeted the shelter's director, Fabienne Paques, and many of the abandoned animals during his visit.

The trip's significance was heightened by Samuel's recent loss of his beloved dog, Naam. Despite being unable to leave with any of the dogs, Samuel's enthusiasm and connection with them were evident. The visit served as both a warm reminder of his project's purpose, as well as a necessary preparation for the numerous shelters he plans to visit during his expedition.

Over the next 19 months, Samuel, along with his parents Wendy and Ronald, will cycle through 20 countries, visiting 56 shelters to rescue and film abandoned dogs, ultimately hoping to find them new homes. Their journey, scheduled to depart on November 15, has been met with challenges, including difficulties in transporting lithium batteries and financial constraints.

However, the family is optimistic about their adventure and has raised funds through a GoFundMe campaign. Samuel and his family aim to raise €5,500 for the expedition, covering daily expenses such as food, accommodation, and bicycle repairs. The family's initiative to merge cycling with animal rescue is a unique approach that aims to not only promote awareness but also to provide a second chance for countless animals.