TUTSHILL friends Louise Best and Helen Mayo are so concerned about the fate of stray dogs in the Forest they are organising a dog show to raise funds to help them.
"Due to a shortage of kennel space locally council dog warden Malcolm Beddis has to make a 50-mile round trip to Churchdown to find suitable shelter for these dogs," Louise told the Review.
"Though the council vaccinates and supports these dogs for seven days almost none are re-homed in this time.
"The kennel-owner, Anne Dunwell, then has the option of having a perfectly healthy but homeless dog destroyed or she can keep it at her own expense – she always chooses the latter and currently has four dogs with no financial support for food, bedding or vet's fees."
Louise and Helen hope their 'Fun Dog Show' on Sunday, August 18 from 11.30am at Severndale Farm, Tidenham, will be enjoyed by dogs, owners and families. Rosettes will be awarded for up to six places in 11 different classes including "saddest eyes" and "best trick".
There will be stalls and refreshments so bring the family, say the girls. Donations of beds, bedding, food and toys for the dogs will be very welcome on the day or people can call Louise to collect them on 01291 626183.
Anne (01452 712107) is still looking for friendly homes for the four dogs – Sharp, a bull terrier cross who needs a lot of exercise and would suit a family with older children; PJ, a medium lurcher who would be fine with older people but not other pets or children; Rosie, another medium lurcher not suitable for very young children; and William, a tallish wire-haired Jack Russell who craves attention and loves walks.