MEET Marlon, the delightful dog who hasn't let his disability stop him from skiing in the Alps, swimming in Lake Garda and running on olive-filled mountains in Spain.
The adventure-loving French bulldog is also a regular sight walking on The Common near his Southampton home with his dog wheelchair, on the back of a bike in the New Forest or paddle-boarding down the river at Hamble or Swanwick.
The ten-year-old had an accident while playing in 2013, leaving him with a spinal injury and no use of his back legs.
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After being surrendered to the French Bulldog Rescue Centre by his previous owners, Marlon was looking for a home and started a new adventure in 2015 when he met Adrian Durrant, who was working in Dublin, Ireland at the time.
The pair set up an adventure sports company for people with disabilities in France's Loire Valley and enjoyed lots of water-based fun. Marlon did plenty of hiking as well as enjoying a few rests in his dog backpack. He had an ever-growing fan club as he travelled to events, trade shows and competitions across Europe.
In November 2020, Adrian and Marlon moved back home to Southampton. During lockdowns, Marlon often joined Adrian's sister Fi in her role as a social worker and brought smiles to many children's faces as the star of Zoom and Skype calls.
Marlon drags his legs at home in Banister Road, but he uses a dog wheelchair or cart when out and about. Tiny socks protect his paws on grass or snow.
Adrian told the Daily Echo: "Marlon has been part of all of my adventures.
"Over the years, Marlon's life has changed from unfortunate rescue dog to adventure pup travelling extensively across Europe.
"He is a happy dog with a big personality. On his wheels, Marlon loves to run and play and enjoys life.
"His gentle temperament and happy personality have made him plenty of friends around the world.
"Many people take pity on Marlon when they see him on his walk on The Common, but there's no need. He's adventure dog 101 who's really and truly been living his best life."
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