DOG-LOVERS and their furry friends packed out Bournemouth seafront today as part of a charity drive to raise vital funds for the RSPCA.

Around 300 dogs, and their owners, took part in the charity's 'Big Walkies' event.

Throughout May the RSPCA has held a series of flagship walks - in Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, Alexandra Palace and Cardiff - as part of an initiative to encourage dog owners to get active with their pets.

Bournemouth Echo:

Participants - both human and canine - are also being sponsored to raise money for those less fortunate dogs, which have fallen victim to cruelty and neglect and are being cared for by the RSPCA.

RSPCA spokesman Laura Quinn said: "It was really busy, which was quite surprising considering the weather. It was great that the rain didn't stop people coming out and supporting us.

"Dogs need to be walked whatever the weather."

Laura told the Echo she expected the total raised at Bournemouth on Saturday to run into £1,000s.

Bournemouth Echo:

Among those taking part was rescue poodle Faye, accompanied by new owner Vicky Moulton.

Faye was discovered abandoned, along with eight other poodles, on the streets of Winchester last year.

Vicky, a care home worker from Ringwood, said: "I've had Faye for just over a year now and she is doing brilliantly.

"Considering what she has been through and how nervous she was in the beginning, she is the most loving, patient dog and has come on leaps and bounds since we took her on.

"Owning a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding things you can do and I want to do everything I can to support other animals in need."

Bournemouth Echo:

Dogs and owners were registered at West Cliff Gardens, before electing to complete a 2.5 or a 4km seafront walk.

The Big Walkies programme has been supported by life insurance firm Vitality.

Vitality chief executive officer Neville Koopowitz said: "A dog not only provides companionship for owners, but can also make them more active.

"Our research has found nearly three in five dog owners exercise more now they have a pet and many of our Vitality members have told us how important their dog is in helping them enjoy a healthier and more active life.

"Mounting evidence shows it is the small things that make a difference to our long term health, whether it is a short walk or taking the stairs instead of the lift.

"Big Walkies provided a great opportunity to encourage the nation to take those first steps to a healthier lifestyle and help raise money for a fantastic cause at the same time."

To find out more visit rspca.org.uk/dogwalk.