TALENTED pooches are enjoying Olympic themed games this week to raise funds for retired police dogs and a young man battling a rare form of cancer.

K9 Pursuits in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, is always looking for fun activities keep its doggy day care guests entertained, and staff have pulled out all the stops for their Rio celebration.

From hurdles and diving; to a gymnastics inspired floor routine – the sporting hounds have been running, jumping and dancing their way to the winners’ podium.

Donations are also being collected for Paws Up, the Durham Retired Police Dog Benevolent Fund, and a crowdfunding campaign set up for Matthew Hadden from Dalton-on-Tees, near Darlington.

In February 2015, Mr Hadden was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, and after months of aggressive chemotherapy, his left leg was amputated below the knee.

He was just beginning to rebuild his life when the cancer returned, this time to his lungs and lymph nodes.

The 27-year-old is now waiting to see what treatment options are available, while continuing to support various cancer charities and giving talks to newly diagnosed patients in hospitals.

An animal lover, he also volunteers at K9 Pursuits, where he is popular with staff and their four-legged guests.

Gill Crawford, who co-directs K9 Pursuits with Andrea Rogers, said: “We’ve known Matt for a long time. He’s a friend of my daughters, which is how I first met him. I’ve seen him grow into a lovely young man and I was devastated when I found out what he is going through. He is so positive and an inspiration to all. He has been such a big help to us and is fantastic with the dogs.”

Mr Hadden said: “I come here when I’m well enough to get my dog fix. I love it here. I’ve learnt so much about training and looking after dogs. It’s been a really positive experience and it gets me out of the house."

He added: "The crowdfunding campaign was started by my cousin. I feel very humbled by it.”

K9 Pursuits is running its Doggy Olympics at its day care and dog training centre in Whitworth Avenue all this week. On Tuesday, August 30, between 11am and 2pm, other dogs and their owners can join in the fun for a minimum donation of £3.

To make a donation to the crowdfunding campaign, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Matt-Hadden

To find out more about Paws Up, visit pawsup.org.uk