A family of dog lovers from Dover has pledged to raise cash for an eastern European shelter and a volunteer who seeks homes for the neglected animals.

Paul and Glenys Jeff, of Vale View Road, have already adopted a Border Collie cross German Shepard dog called Truly who they believe is about three-years-old, but the family are keen to do something else to help.

She is missing half her lip and has a problem with one of her back legs.

The couple were alerted to Truly’s poor condition after their daughter, Becky Meredith, sent a picture of the suffering dog in Romania.

She was brought to Great Britain by a Scottish organisation, who ensured she had full health checks.

Their granddaughter, Poppy Meredith, 23, has now pledged to hold a cake and coffee morning at Crosslinks community centre in Sheridan Road this Saturday, (February 21)

It is the place Poppy and her mum work together.

The money will go to the Ham and Miau private shelter where volunter Daniela works - a woman the Dover family has praised for her efforts to save the dogs from being killed.

Miss Meredith said: “She (Truly) has settled in really well and repays us with her love every time we look at her.

“But we know that hundreds of dogs remain in dreadful conditions - many die in the public shelters.”

'We know that hundreds of dogs remain in dreadful conditions' - Poppy Meredith

“Truly was rescued from death in the public shelter, by Daniela of the Ham and Miau private shelter. She was held there until an adopter came forward. Hundreds remain there and the private shelter relies on donations from people like us to feed them and mend their little bodies.”

“This is a cause very close to our hearts and to our lives, and we would really appreciate the support of as many people as possible,” she added.

Coffee and cake is available at the centre from 10am to 2pm to eat in or takeaway. There will also be a raffle and a gift stall.

Miss Meredith has also set up a page for people who cannot attend the fundraiser. It has so far generated nearly £200. To donate, visit: www.fundrazr.com and search help us help them by Poppy Meredith.