MOVE over Nick Knowles as the RSPCA in Warrington needs help with a doggy DIY SOS.

Staff at the centre on Slutchers Lane are appealing for builder's help in the town to transform a patch of land into a 'dog enrichment garden' filled with areas for pets to play in and stretch their legs.

The cause, which now exclusively deals with severe neglect and cruelty cases brought to them by RSPCA inspectors, says the area will make a significant different to animals in their care who may have to wait anything from three weeks to a number of months before they can be rehomed.

Helena Brailsford, interim branch manager, said: "It can take time for animals to be signed over to us so we can look for a new home for them or if they are extremely emaciated it will take time to build up their body weight.

"We currently have six dogs involved in the same case who have been here for two years.

"From the point of view of their welfare, it's better than the situation they were in but the enrichment garden would give them extra stimulation and the opportunity for them to exhibit natural behaviours like paddling in a stream or having a good sniff like any normal dog would.

"We try and give them as much time away from the kennels as we can and this will make a massive difference."

The centre, which currently cares for 21 cats and 33 dogs, picked up a grant of £4,000 to pay for materials towards their garden plan which includes a pond and fountain, herb garden to sniff and a tree to 'cock their leg on'.

But they need help to make their dream a reality.

Helena added: "We have been doing this on a shoe string budget and haven't got money for labour.

"The staff have tried to help but we want our dogs to have the best with some professional input in a DIY SOS scenario.

"We would love a contractor to get in touch and have a look at the plan and see if they can help."

Among the animals who will be making the most of the facility is three-year-old American Bulldog Louie (pictured).

The poor pooch was left abandoned by his previous owner in a house without access to any food or water in a 'filthy and unsuitable environment'.

Neighbours helped keep him alive by feeding him through the letterbox but after hours of training with staff and volunteers, he is now ready for a new home.

For more details email rehoming@rspca-whs.org.uk and to help with doggy DIY SOS email helena.brailsford@rspca-whs.org.uk.