DOZENS of dog owners in Wyre Forest are set to take part in a huge fundraiser this weekend when they take their canines out for a big walk.

The RSPCA Big Walkies will be held at the Wyre Forest Visitor Centre at Callow Hill in Rock on Saturday, September 25 from 10.30am.

The aim of the event is to encourage as many dog owners to take their pets to the visitor centre and raise as much money for the charity through sponsorship.

One of the many special guests taking part in the walk is Bella – a rescue dog who had found herself with three different owners in her first eight weeks.

Owner Andrew Borley said: “Bella came to us when she was eight weeks old but we were not her first owners!

“She originally went to a family who very quickly decided that they could not cope with a puppy. Luckily they knew a couple with dogs who agreed to foster her.

“At this time we as a family had been looking for a rescue dog to adopt but without success.

“We had tried many dog shelters but either the dog wasn't suitable for us or we weren't suitable for the dog. It seemed that we would never find a dog to become part of our family.

“A friend of ours who knew of our search then contacted us one weekend to say that his brother and sister-in-law were temporarily looking after a puppy and did we want to go and look at her. He sent us a photo on the phone and gave us directions to go and see her.

“It was an October evening when we went to see her and there was a power cut in the area. Our first introduction to Bella was by candlelight being held in her foster mom's arms.

“She was a staffy with two tone colouring and very pretty. We each had a turn holding her and that was it - she came back with us that night.

“Her first evening at home was spent following a very excitable puppy around with kitchen roll and wipes to mop up the puddles. She spent her first night downstairs in the kitchen and settled very quickly. By the second night there wasn't even a whimper.”

“Over the nearly two years since, she has developed into the most loving, gentle and good natured dog you could wish for. She gets on brilliantly with other dogs and has many doggie friends that she has met on her walks.

“She loves to play football with our two boys and pesters them to play it all the time. She is dearly loved throughout our family and friends and has many "second homes" where a water bowl, toys and treats are kept for her.

“She runs off the lead in the local park but never goes far away from us and comes back when called.

“When we were looking for a rescue dog, a staffy was not a breed I was particularly keen on. However, having had Bella I think the whole family is converted to them. When she puts her paws round your neck and gives you the traditional "staffy cuddle" you couldn't ask for more.

Anyone interested in taking part can get more information by calling 07715 201239 or by emailing Janis.rspca@btinternet.com