A HEREFORDSHIRE charity which cares for stray and abandoned dogs is calling on county residents to help raise funds and provide homes for older dogs.

Hereford and Worcester Animal Rescue is struggling to rehome some of its older dogs as puppies or younger dogs are the preferred choice in rehoming cases.

Founder, Carol Smith said: "The situation is really hard at the moment, many of the dogs collected by dog wardens in Herefordshire are middle aged or elderly.

"These older dogs stay in our care until new homes are found but as a small self funding charity we have limited means to be able to carry on indefinitely."

The charity also finances veterinary treatment of the dogs in its care including surgical procedures and chemotherapy as well as routine requirements and the day to day cost of running the kennels.

The charity has organised various fundraising events in Herefordshire and further afield incuding a sponsored walk, a parachute jump, a horse ride and are taking part in Jailbreak.

Carol added: "We do need help, people often think that charities are government funded, which unfortunately isnt the case."

If any local groups or clubs would like organise a fundraising event or if individuals can offer a dog a temporary or permanent home contact Carol on 01885 482967.