HYNDBURN Stray Dogs In Need is currently looking to recruit more people.

The group, which is in the process of registering as a charity, has a committee of dog lovers who are dedicated to raising funds for the treatment of injured stray dogs that are collected by the dog warden.

Dogs are kennelled for seven days but then have to be moved out and into new homes or animal shelters. The only other alternative is to put them down.

Because of this the group is urgently trying to find loving foster homes to care for the animals until they can be permanently rehoused.

Nikki Griffin, secretary, said: "The worst time of year is just before and after Christmas because people get rid of their dogs to get new puppies then tire of the puppies and throw them out."

"The July holidays are bad too as people chuck them out when going away to prevent paying for boarding for them - but it is a problem all year round.

"We believe that these dogs deserve a second chance to find a happy home and the funds we raise go directly towards the treatment, rehabilitation and after care of these dogs."

The group is also looking for additional committee members to help come up with more ideas to raise funds, as well as volunteers to transport dogs and to do home checks for foster homes.

A meeting is to be held for anyone interested in helping on Monday September 10 at Mercer House, Mercer Park, Clayton-le-Moors.