IN GLORIOUS sunshine, dog lovers and their furry friends got together to show support for a good cause. 

Four-legged pets and their owners raised funds for Schnauzerfest, a charity that helps rescue dogs and spreads awareness about the realities of puppy farming.

The charity event was hosted by South Coast Schnauzers at Royal Victoria Country Park and almost 60 people turned up to support the charity's campaign. Daily Echo: South Coast Schnauzers members to raise vital funds for charitySouth Coast Schnauzers members to raise vital funds for charity (Image: South Coast Schnauzers members to raise vital funds for charity)

Speaking to the Echo about the event, organiser Dave Rodrigues said: "It was a lovely and wonderful day. 

"It got people to get out and take walks with their dogs and meet other doggy pals. 

"Everyone was able to socialise and catch up. It was fantastic. 

"The weather gods were also nice to us and we had great weather all day round." 

On the day £166 was raised for Schnauzerfest, which was founded in 2014. Daily Echo: Furry friends enjoy a day out with their owners Furry friends enjoy a day out with their owners (Image: Furry friends enjoy a day out with their owners)

Altogether this year, they have raised nearly £2,000 for the charity.

While helping rescue dogs is at the forefront of the charity's agenda, they also help owners who are unable to afford veterinary fees.

Dave, who has three Schnauzers and two other rescue dogs and is from Southsea, added: "The key aim of this event was to raise awareness of illegal dog breeding and help raise money for bills that rescue dog owners cannot afford." 

Meanwhile, thanking the participants for their support, SchnauzerfestUK said: "The weekend's walk organised by South Coast Schnauzers was a great way to raise funds, gather with friends and enjoy seeing dogs being dogs.

"We say a heartfelt thank you to Dave, his wife Jane and the members of their group, who are fantastic, regular supporters of the charity." 

The event took place on September 11 and organisers are preparing to head to Southsea next for their Halloween-themed event. 

To keep up-to-date with their events, join South Coast Schnauzers on Facebook: facebook.com/groups/1490447704465041