AN animal lover has set herself an ambitious goal.

Amy Peters hopes to swim across the English Channel in August as part of a relay team and raise £1,000 for Pets As Therapy.

This charity’s volunteers make therapeutic visits to hospitals, nursing homes, hospices and special schools with dogs and cats.

Amy, aged 33, from Sandymoor is registering her five-year-old Australian Labradoodle, Muttley as a therapy dog and hopes to become a volunteer.

She said: “I want to give something back.

“Muttley will do anything for a cuddle and enjoys meeting people.

“My husband’s gran was in a care home after she had a stroke.

“We brought our dogs along. It was amazing. The quiet room livened up as everyone started talking.

“It brings back memories of their childhood.

“Children in hospital miss being with something as homely as an animal.

“Our dogs are like family.”

Water-trained Muttley is helping her prepare for her challenge.

She trains in open water at Salford Quays and the Albert Dock and builds up her speed twice a week at Runcorn swimming baths.

Amy, who also has a Black Russian Terrier called Rogue, said: “The most difficult thing in the sea is the cold.

“The movement of the waves smacking you in the face can make you sea sick.

“My biggest fear is jelly fish. I’m petrified of them.”

Amy, who used to work in shipping and logistics, has just launched a new pet caring and dog walking business, Creature Comforts, with her friend, 31-year-old Gemma Knight.

Their company and clients are supporting her six-strong team of swimmers called ‘Dover Souls’ on their 22-mile swim.

Amy added: “A pilot boat will accompany us and we will have an adjudicator on board watching.

“Depending on the tides and currents, we think it will take us about 17 hours.”

To support Amy, visit justgiving.com/AmyPeters1