DOG-LOVER Calli Byrne has started a new rescue organisation for “misunderstood” Staffordshire Bull Terriers and other stray dogs.

She is currently looking for loving homes for eight dogs between the ages of 12 weeks and eight years and is keen to stress Staffies are good-natured, friendly dogs.

“Staffies have a terrible reputation that is really not true,” said Calli. “They sometimes attract the wrong kind of owners but, with basic training, they are friendly and make good pets.”

Among the homeless dogs is Roxy, rescued from “death row” in a Swindon dog pound and looking for a new family.

She is currently in rented kennels but “really needs a home of her own”.

Other dogs, including puppy Reggie, eight-year-old Rocky and brothers Boots and Chunks are in foster care.

Calli, who lives in Ferndown, said money is raised to keep the dogs in a variety of ways including car boot sales, fetes and donations.

The new organisation, called Staffie and Stray Rescue, is a member of the Association of Cats and Dogs Homes and there are plans to register as a charity as soon as possible.

Calli added: “We do everything we can to match the dogs to appropriate owners because some need more training than others.”

And she said most are happy with other dogs and with children.

To view profiles of the dogs, or to make a donation, go to staffieandstrayrescue.co.uk or call Calli on 07450 207417.