HOMELESS hounds across the town have gained new support with the backing of a leading retailer.

Marks and Spencers in Regent Street have chosen Saving Needy Dogs (SNDogs) as their charitable partner for the year, giving a much-needed boost to the newly formed charity.

The partnership means that Marks and Spencer pledges to hold a series of fundraising events for SNDogs in the next year, including pub quizzes, cakes sales and cycling challenges.

Clare Stephens from SNDogs said the news had delighted volunteers at the charity.

“It’s absolutely fabulous news, we are all so pleased by it. As we only became a charity last August it’s amazing to have the support of a well-known company like Marks and Spencer. It means we can keep doing the work we are doing and helping more dogs,” she said.

“It does feel special that Marks and Spencer voted for us to be their charity of the year.

“We want to see every dog in Swindon live a healthy life and find a happy home, and M&S Swindon’s support will allow us to continue our work within the local community.”

“We are growing as a charity every day and seeing an increase in adoptions which of course is what we are all about.”

SNDogs and the store have already begun fundraising with £150 raised through a customer bag packing day.

James Shorney, store manager at M&S Swindon, was delighted to lend support to the charity.

“My team is hugely committed to supporting local good causes and SNDogs is a fantastic charity, grown from a very simple love of dogs and a pledge that no animal should be neglected,” he said.

“The charity is a cause close to our hearts and one we can’t wait to help support.”

SNDogs was recently joined by two new canine companions, Shih Tzu Bobby and bulldog cross Beth who were on their best behaviour at the fundraising launch.

“Bobby arrived to us in pretty bad condition, all his fur was matted and dirty so the first thing we did was give him a good haircut. He looks fantastic now. Both Bobby and Beth are lovely dogs,” said Clare.

Formed in 2012, SNDogs was designed to save innocent animals from dog death row and helps stray and pound dogs in the town find loving new homes.

SNDogs are often the first port of call for the Swindon Council dog pound which has been inundated with abandoned dogs in the last year

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.

For more information, to become a foster carer or to adopt visit http://www.sndogs.uk/

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