Last year, I discovered Underdog International and learned of a couple of things they do, that I think are really important. 

They work to improve the wellbeing of stray and vulnerable dogs, globally. They rescue, foster and arrange adoption. Importantly, they also look at measures to control dog populations.

They place dogs in loving environments, where many become involved in Underdog's child support programmes, delivering educational and therapeutic services to schools and other youth groups.

Helping dogs, good. Supporting children, good. Both, fantastic!

This April I will be travelling to a shelter in Romania called Dog Rose, who not only rescue and rehabilitate hundreds of dogs, but also have a classroom on-site which they use to teach disadvantaged children about kindness and compassion to animals.

I will be working at the shelter and also at children centres in Bucharest, with the aim of improving the wellbeing of both dogs & children using these facilities.

Specifically, the trip aims to build a winter shelter to house the new intake of dogs this coming winter.

For me, the trip is primarily about giving time and doing something to help. That said, the more funds available to the charity, the more we can do. So if you are able to help with a donation of a £1 or 2, it would be hugely appreciated.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.