RESCUE dogs showcased their athletic abilities at the very first ‘Olympups’.

To celebrate the success of Team GB at the Rio Olympics, and to help keep homeless hounds entertained, Dogs Trust organised its very own version of the international sporting event across its 20 rehoming centres.

The dogs put their athletic prowess to good use by enjoying a whole range of sports including hurdles, sprint, tennis, discus, synchronized diving, the high beam, the long jump, and the doggy paddle.

The charity says it now hopes to pass on the baton of ownership to loving new families.

Richard Moore, centre manager for Dogs Trust, said: “We definitely had a touch of Olympic fever here and a doggy Olympics seemed like the perfect fun way to channel the dogs’ energy and keep them mentally and physically stimulated whilst interacting with their doggy friends. The dogs all thoroughly enjoyed it and some of them actually turned out to be pretty talented.”

He added: “Like most athletes, our dogs are extremely energetic and will need time to continue their training in a new home. They will make wonderful additions to sport-mad families who can spend time playing lots of games with them.

“If you need a personal trainer to get you ready for the next Olympics in Tokyo, or just a new best friend to chase around the garden, we hope you will consider one of our Olympup stars. They are all super dogs and we hope they will find loving homes in time.”