A £1,130 donation from a Poole retailer to Waggy Tails Rescue came at just the right time for the charity.

John Lewis at home, Branksome, handed over the cheque, raised through their Community Matters programme, in the same week as the rescue of two very young pups from different homes.

“One was under ten weeks old, and needed all necessary injections and both will need neutering as soon as they are old enough, which all cost money,” said volunteer Sally Troth.

“This donation from John Lewis has come in at just the right time to help with this,” she said.

The youngest pup has since been rehomed.

At the other end of the scale the rescue charity has also rehomed 12-year-old Dylan, who had been with his owner all his life until the owner had to go into a nursing home.

However financial cutbacks faced by families are resulting in more dogs needing new homes and the charity is appealing for help.

“We are currently inundated with dogs and need your help,” said Sally.

Anyone interested in fostering a dog or who has experience as a fundraiser and can help in a voluntary role can contact the Waggy Tails office on 01202 875000 between 10am and 4pm or email admin@waggytails. org.uk.