A well-known dog charity has come out in public support of Nintendogs this week, backing the 'positive message' that Ninty's latest virtual pet-em-up promotes. The Dog's Trust - formerly known as the Canine Defence League - said that the game offers a very important message for budding hound keepers. So much so, that a strategic partnership has been forged between the organisations. "The philosophy behind the game has a lot in common with our own aims of ensuring that every dog is a happy and loved pet," Dogs Trust marketing boss Adrian Burder commented, "it's great that there's a game that is not only fun to play, but supports the message that responsible dog ownership means more than giving your dog an occasional stroke."

The Dogs Trust takes care of over 12,000 mistreated or abandoned pooches every year, whilst Nintendog's is Nintendo's latest virtual pet craze, currently wowing audiences of the non-traditional variety internationally. The game sees you taking charge of a puppy, and rearing it into the most happy dog possible for in-game rewards. Those purchasing the game will be offered the chance to sponsor a Dogs Trust dog, with ads on packing supporting the charity and fundraising events planned as approaches.

The game launches in the UK early next month, and will also carry vouchers offering money-off Bakers Complete dog food - for those gamers taking their dog-rearing skills into the real world.

By Luke Guttridge