A world record dog-walking attempt, involving more than 3,000pets, will be held on the outskirts of Edinburgh, on Sunday 11th May, to boost funds for the University of Edinburgh Dick Vet Small Animal Hospital Ultrasound Appeal.

The pets and their owners will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest number of dogs walking a three -mile course, and also raise money to help purchase a scanner costing £80,000.

The scanner will provide vets at the Hospital with valuable and detailed images, which will help them to detect a wide variety of diseases in their small animal patients without resorting to more invasive procedures. Where surgery is unavoidable, an ultrasound examination prepares the surgeon in advance for findings during the operation. This may help to cut both operating and recovery times for the patient. Sometimes, it can rule out the need for surgery entirely.

The walk, taking place during National Pet Week, needs 3,118 dogs to break the existing World Record, which was established in Austin, Texas, on 20th April, 2002. Veterinary students from the University will help to marshal the pets and their owners when they assemble at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, for this record-breaking attempt.

Commenting on the World Record Attempt, Scottish SPCA Spokesperson Doreen Graham said: "The society attempted to break the record last year and, although we were unsuccessful, everyone who took part had a really good day. The record may or may not be broken, but no matter what, everyone will have a fun day to remember and the knowledge that they are helping to buy veterinary equipment that could save the lives of hundreds of dogs is something to smile about."

Caroline Freedman, the event organiser, is urging all dog owners to pre-register for the event as soon as possible, by contacting her for an application form on:
0131 650 6149 (office hours) or

0131 346 7528 (e-mail: guinnessdogwalk@yahoo.co.uk) or, Beverley Montgomery, School Office, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Tel: 0131 650 6149 (office hours), e-mail: Beverley.Montgomery@ed.ac.uk

Forms are also available by personal collection from Summerhall Clinic, Summerhall, Edinburgh EH9 1QH, the Hospital for Small Animals, Easter Bush, Roslin, EH25 9RG, and the University of Edinburgh Centre, 7-11 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh EH8 9BE