THE windy weather did little to deter the spirit of 30 Pembrokeshire pooches on Sunday (April 12).

They, along with their owners, put their best paws forward for the inaugural Sponsored Staffie Strut, which took place in Haverfordwest.

The event was organised for two reasons: to raise funds for Greenacres Animal Rescue and Pembrokeshire Staffies, and also to promote the Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed as excellent family pets.

“Sadly the breed receives bad publicity, so this event was to promote the breed as the loving and loyal dogs they are,” said Greenacres manger Mikey Lawlor.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are the most common breed in rescue centres and council-run pounds around the UK, and both Greenacres and Pembrokeshire Staffies work tirelessly to provide safe rescue spaces for staffies, and then look for suitable forever homes.

The Staffie Strut was supported by Pembrokeshire County Council dog wardens and two representatives from Dyfed-Powys Police. Everyone set off from County Hall at 11am to walk along Freemans Way to Merlins Bridge, and back again.

Mikey added: “It was fantastic to see so many dogs and owners turn out to support the walk. We will definitely be making this an annual event.”

Yvonne Parkins, founder of Pembrokeshire Staffies, said: “Today the media myth around Staffies was debunked. Staffies and their guardians took part in a peaceful and successful walk in Haverfordwest. It was a joy to see. Thank you so much to all involved.”

It is estimated that just over £1,000 was raised, which will be divided between Greenacres and Pembrokeshire Staffies.

Greenacres is running very low on tinned dog food at the moment, as a result of so many dogs in its care. Mikey and the team are making an appeal for anyone to pick up an extra can with their shopping and drop it off at one of the many Greenacres points around the county. A list of drop off points can be found here: www.greenacresrescue.org.uk