DOG lovers across Hampshire are being urged to take their canine companions for charity walkies.

Two-legged and four-legged fundraisers will be embarking on a 6km trek on Sunday to help raise money for the largest animal shelter in the country.

The Stubbington Ark is like a dog with a bone, aiming to make this year's Wag Walk through Southampton Common bigger and better.

Last year saw the first Wag Walks take place, and after their tremendous success, raising more than £5,000 for the shelter, the decision has been made to continue the event.

The Stubbington Ark comes to the aid of thousands of unwanted, unloved and uncared for domestic and wild animals within a catchment area of 400 miles, providing them with a second chance of happiness. However this unique shelter, run by the Solent Branch of the RSPCA, comes at a price, costing £2,000 per day to run.

Vanessa Eden, fundraising manager, said: "Last year's Wag Walks raised a staggering £5,500 to build a much-needed exercise and agility area for the many dogs we have here at the shelter.

"The amount raised was amazing as they were the first Wag Walks the charity held. I am hoping that we can beat last year's target, which will go towards a wildlife area at the Ark."

Each dog taking part in the walk will receive a free goody bag, with the winning dog or dogs, which raise the most sponsorship money, receiving a trophy and a meal for two for their owners.

Even if you do not have a dog yourself, you can still help to make a difference and sponsor the shelter's dog Buzz - a 15-month-old lurcher who has been at the Ark since November.

Also taking part will be Arnie the Yorkshire terrier, from Fareham, who will be defending his title of Champion of Walkers.

Last year Arnie's owner Julia Howard raised the most amount of money - £315.

There will be three walks taking place across the south. A six-mile trek from Stubbington Ark, a three-and-a-half-mile course on Hayling Island and the 6km walk around Southampton Common, starting from the Cowherds pub at 10.30am.