A NATIONAL animal rehoming charity is calling on Hampshire artists and designers to help them raise money for vulnerable animals.

Blue Cross, which has an animal shelter near West End, near Southampton, needs local designers and architects to represent the community in helping to make artwork kennels that will then go on display around London.

The kennels will then be auctioned to the highest bidder in May next year, helping to raise funds for the charity and its work with sick, injured and homeless pets.

The West End centre opened its doors in 1988, with the facility looking after dogs and cats as well as puppies and kittens.

Lara Alford, centre manager at Blue Cross near Southampton, said: “This is a lovely project that will really help so many of the pets we love and care for every day.

“We’re sure that there is a lot of talent in the Southampton area and it’d be perfect if local people came on board to help and showcase artists and architects.”

The initiative, which consists or artists from across the UK and globally, launched in March 2017 when the pet charity teamed up with American-based Outdoor Arts Foundation to launch ‘BowWow Haus London’.

The public exhibition of bespoke dog kennels will be displayed at sites across London, which will then be auctioned with the proceeds going to aid the work of the Blue Cross.

Matt Cull, deputy director of fundraising at the charity, said: “Blue Cross couldn’t be more excited for this upcoming exhibition and we are delighted to have such incredible talent already on board to create a kennel.

“Our charity helps over 40,000 pets each year and it is wonderful to be able to benefit those dogs in need with some inspirational, unique art.”

Blue Cross and Outdoor Arts are continuing to recruit architects, artists designers and builders as part of the project.

Anyone who wants to take part is asked to contact Matt Cull through matthew.cull@bluecross.org.uk.