London-based dog business taking part in sponsored walk for World Cup dogs of Morocco

Canine Principles team members will take part in the Day of the Morocco Dog sponsored walk event on Saturday, to raise money to help street dogs in Morocco, who are being injured and left for dead as part of a huge 'clean up' of stray dogs ahead of the Morocco World Cup 2030.

The 5k walk is being completed by supporters all over the world, and is backed by celebrities including music legend Gary Numan, Downton Abbey actor Peter Egan and conservationists Jane Goodall and Chris Packham.

Jo Middleton, owner of Canine Principles, said: "Our company is all about animal welfare, and what is best for the dog. And when we heard what was going on in Morocco we knew that we needed to do something to help.

"We love that people around the world are all standing up and showing their support. And we can't wait to join in with that."

The International Animal Coalition – IAWPC, consists of 20 respected international animal welfare, protection and veterinary organisations from around the world, with extensive knowledge and expertise in these areas.

These organisations include the RSPCA, PETA and Dogs Trust.

The Coalition comes together when issues of serious and major concern relating to the welfare and protection of animals come to our attention, often as a result of pleas for help from groups within a particular country.

Canine Principles is an accredited course library of dog training courses, which have been written by experts who put the welfare of the animal first.

The company is currently working with UK rescue charities offering a free course for people who are adopting a rescue dog, which will help smooth the transition.

Jo added: "We hope that by taking part in this walk we will help show Morocco, and FIFA that this kind of widespread slaughter is not acceptable, and that the welfare of people and animals must be taken into account. Charities and organisations are ready to help implement programmes in Morocco to ethically reduce the population of dogs with sterilisation and vaccination schemes. This violence is not necessary."

And Downton Abbey star and animal advocate Peter Egan added: "I am walking for the dogs on Saturday as I am appalled by what is going on in Morocco.

"These beautiful animals are being slaughtered in the streets, all in the name of FIFA's football World Cup, and it is down to people like us to say that this is not something that we support.

"Please join me in taking part on March 1, and show Morocco and FIFA that the world is watching."

You can sign up for the IAWPC's Day of the Morocco Dog sponsored walk and receive your free action pack by emailing [email protected]