Bissoe-based K9 Crusaders Dog Welfare has received a £10,000 capital grant from Support Adoption For Pets, the UK’s largest grant giving animal charity, to create a fenced activity field which will provide an exercise and play area for the dogs in its care.

The independent charity rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes dogs across Cornwall. It relies solely on donations and a team of dedicated volunteers to survive. The charity not only rescues stray and unwanted dogs but it provides invaluable behavioural support, and advice on all aspects of dog welfare.

The charity's treasurer, Bee Chapman, said: “The grant will enable K9 Crusaders to securely fence an activity field and multi-functional space which will enrich the lives of the kennel dogs and provide them with an adventure playground in a completely separate environment from the noise and general hubbub that surrounds their daily lives in kennels.

"In addition, it will provide a calmer environment for prospective new owners to meet their chosen dog and can also be used by members of the local community to safely exercise their dogs, including those with behavioural issues or have no recall or those dogs which have been unlucky enough to be typed.”

Amy Wilson, charity manager at Support Adoption For Pets, a charity established by Pets at Home in 2006, said: “It is a real privilege to help an organisation that works so hard to care for and re-home dogs in need. They are doing a superb job, and the effort the rescue puts in is an inspiration.”