A GROUP of animal lovers seeking charitable status today appealed for kindhearted people to come forward and look after sick and injured pets.

Volunteers at the newly-formed Hyndburn Stray Dogs in Need (HSDN) group are looking for pet lovers to turn their homes into rest places for dogs who have just undergone surgery or who need to recover before being permanently rehomed.

The HSDN was set up in February in a bid to find a loving home for three-legged mongrel Dougal, who had to have one of his hind legs removed after he was struck by a car in Manchester Road, Accrington.

Dougal, four, underwent £300-worth of treatment and spent his recovery time at Mearley Vet Centre, Clitheroe.

The volunteer fosterers would be expected to care for the animals for any length of time from a couple of days up to a few weeks, depending on how much treatment the dog needs.

And the charity has promised to foot all food, bedding and veterinary costs.

Georgina Allen from the group, said: "It's not that often that the dogs would need to stay with a fosterer, but it would be a great help if we had names on a list should the need arise.

"When dogs have been involved in serious accidents or need special care and attention it is better they go somewhere to have time off where they can recover and the home environment is perfect and sets them up ready to go to a new owner."

If you think you could offer a temporary home for a sick or injured dog telephone Georgina Allen on 07787 135053 or Steve Wood on 07970 681225.