Dogs put their best paw forward

Next month, one by one, hundreds of our four pawed pals will set off with their owners on a mission to help less fortunate dogs. A mammoth sponsored relay 'walkies' is set to cover the whole of the UK from Lands End to John O'Groats in order to raise awareness of dog abandonment, and promoting the need for responsible dog ownership.

The Pedigree Adoption Drive Dog Tag Team is the UK's first ever sponsored dog relay, and is a part of the company's annual drive to help 100,000 abandoned or stray dogs in the UK find loving homes. Participating dogs and their owners will each walk a 'dog leg' of the route which is made up of 246 sections, running through Britain's cities and towns and along its country roads.

It is hoped that by the final dog leg, lots of money will have been raised to help homeless dogs. As it trots along its way, the initiative aims to dispel myths surrounding dog adoption and throw a sizeable stick to UK dog charities so they can continue their work in caring for and providing shelter to so many of Britain's abandoned dogs and helping them find loving homes.

All of which is particularly close to the heart of one of our favourite actresses and Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden. Amanda is the loving owner of Fudge, a rescue dog who came into her life nine years ago and who will be accompanying her when together they take the very first steps on the epic trek next month.

Stressing the importance of the campaign, she says, "Fudge arrived at our house nine years ago, cold, with matted fur and looking very sad. I know from first-hand experience, how valuable The Pedigree Adoption Drive is. That's why I'm honoured to be launching The Pedigree Adoption Drive Dog Tag Team to show my support for such a worthy campaign."

For more information visit Pedigreeadoptiondrive.com.