Walkies to raise funds for dogs seized in raids
KIND-HEARTED dog owners from across South Wales got together to raise money for a rescue centre that took in animals seized during police raids in Cardiff.
The South Wales French Bulldog Meet Up Group met at Bryngarw Country Park, in Bridgend, for a walk and raised nearly £600 for Hope Rescue, in Pontyclun,
Members of the group baked cakes and made dog treats and donated items to sell and prizes to be raffled at the event.
The group, which was set up four years ago, was touched by the recent reports of dogs being seized in Cardiff last month.
Organisers said they wanted to demonstrate that there are responsible French bulldog owners in South Wales.
Officers took the six French bulldogs and eight English bulldogs, including five puppies, under the Animal Welfare Act when they executed nine warrants in Llanrumney and one in Cardiff Bay.
The animals were signed over to the care of Hope Rescue. They were taken to a vets for a check where they were found to have multiple health issues including cherry eye, entropia, ear mites, ear infections and skin infections.
A spokeswoman for the charity said at the time: “There was not one healthy dog or puppy amongst them. All of the dogs have been checked for microchips and we can confirm none of them are stolen dogs.
“It was also clear the females had been used for breeding on multiple occasions – nothing more than money-making machines. The good news is that these poor dogs will now get all the vet treatment they need and will never be used for breeding again. It will costs us thousands to get these poor abused dogs healthy again.”
She added: “With so many dogs currently in our care our running costs are through the roof as you can imagine, especially our vet costs.
“We’ll have lots of skin complaints and ear and eye infections to deal with as well as preventative care such as vaccinations, worm/flea treatment and neutering.
“We are able to help these dogs because of the kind donations from our supporters, especially those who donate a small amount every month.”
The South Wales French Bulldog Meet Up Group gets together twice a month for walks across the region and supports several dog charities.
To find out more about how to donate to the animal rescue centre, visit hoperescue. org.uk