OLDER dogs are being given a new lease of life - thanks to a scheme involving volunteers in Suffolk.The Oldies Club was set up a year ago and so far its website has helped find new homes for more than 400 dogs of all shapes and sizes.

OLDER dogs are being given a new lease of life - thanks to a scheme involving volunteers in Suffolk.

The Oldies Club was set up a year ago and so far its website has helped find new homes for more than 400 dogs of all shapes and sizes.

More than 125 have been fostered by members of the club, and then found new homes, saving many of them from being put down.

John Lowery, of Felixstowe, one of the group's volunteers, said: “The Oldies Club started as a group of volunteers concerned about the plight of older dogs in rescue homes and pounds - because older dogs can be so difficult to re-home.

“People who go to rescue centres often want puppies or young dogs and the older animals just get overlooked, yet they have so much to offer as great family pets.

“All many oldies desire is to spend the last months of their life warm, loved and secure, looked after in a comfortable home.

“Whether they have lost their previous owners to illness or bereavement, been abandoned by their family, or - in thankfully rare cases - been victims of neglect and abuse, the older dog rarely wants more than love, time and understanding, and it can be very rewarding looking after them.”

Mr Lowery said the club had started by putting posters displaying needy rescue dogs in vets', libraries, and pet shops, but it had really taken off through the website.

“We have been able to reach a huge number of people seeking to adopt a dog,” he said.

“We work closely with established rescue centres across the UK and Ireland, showcasing dogs aged seven-plus and we now also take in a small number of oldies who, for whatever reason, find themselves in desperate straits.

“The Oldies Club does not maintain a central kennels - all dogs are cared for in volunteer foster homes across the UK.

“When entering foster care, dogs are matched to the right foster home for their needs and temperament, but we do have some brave souls on our books who can take on un-assessed dogs.”

The Yorkshire terrier Jake featured in our photo is currently being fostered and is looking for a home in this area - prospective owners can find out more via the club website.

The club is also looking for help from people willing to make a donation, volunteer as a coat knitter, transporter, fosterer, homechecker, or fundraiser.

WEBLINK: www.oldies.org.uk