TOWN charity Saving Needy Dogs is celebrating the start of a remarkable year having rehomed 16 homeless hounds in just three months.

Since January, a record number of dogs have found their forever homes, leaving the charity ecstatic with the progress made.

Clare Stephens, SNDogs volunteer, said 2016 had proved a landmark year for the newly formed charity.

“There are a lot of animal lovers in Swindon and this really shows. I think we have had the best start to the year on record. We’re all so happy because it is what we’re all about. Finding the right home for dogs when they need us the most,” she said.

Among the perfect pooches securing loving new homes was lurcher mix Patas, whose journey has taken him Swind from the Spanish streets where he was found wandering.

The 10-year-old is now settling into his new home in Covingham with owner Maria Newman and black spaniel Dave.

“It is always more difficult to find homes for older dogs, that is why it is such good news that we were able to rescue Patas and that we got a home for him,” said Clare.

“He’s settling in really well, and him and Dave had made really good friends. It’s what it’s all about. We didn’t think he would be able to live with another dog but Patas and Dave are firm friends now.

“He likes relaxing and sleeping on the sofa, it’s great to see him so settled after years of struggling on the streets.”

Also settling into a new home is white Tibetan terrier Charlie Dog.

The 15-year-old, whose previous owners were unable to care for her, has moved in with new owner Sarah Smith who lives in Rodbourne.

Charlie Dog’s happy ending came after a crowdfunding campaign raised more than £450 for her urgent veterinary care.

“Charlie Dog is doing so well now, and we can’t thank the people of Swindon enough for donating and giving her a second chance," said Clare.

“Again she is a old girl, but so loving and friendly. We’re so happy we have got her a wonderful owner.”

SNDogs are now focused on securing homes across the town for other furry friends in their care.

Beautiful brindle staffie Alfie, who lives with foster carer Mark Harding in Pinehurst, is one such dog on the hunt.

Alfie came into the care of SNDogs after his elderly owner became unable to look after him.

Clare said the eight-year-old would be a loving new addition to any family.

“He’s great with other dogs and children, he’s a very sweet boy, well trained and he is always smiling. He gets on really well with Kester, who was another dog we successfully adopted this year.

“It is always difficult to find homes for brindle staffies so we hope that someone will come forward as he is such a lovely dog.”

Formed in 2012, the charity was designed to save innocent animals from dog death row.

Their network has now expanded to include a pool of 15 pre-vetted foster carers who provide accommodation for dogs in need.

The charity covers all food, training and veterinary bills until a suitable forever home can be found for them.

Swindon’s Needy Dogs, known as SNDogs officially became a charity in September, enabling the animal welfare and re-homing service to gain greater financial support. The charity helps stray and pound dogs in the town.

To adopt a dog visit www.sndogs.uk