STAFFORDSHIRE bull terriers have had quite a lot of bad press in recent years. But staff at RSPCA Southridge Animal Centre want people to know that not all Staffies are as vicious as they are sometimes made out to be. Anna White, manager of the South Mi

STAFFORDSHIRE bull terriers have had quite a lot of bad press in recent years.

But staff at RSPCA Southridge Animal Centre want people to know that not all Staffies are as vicious as they are sometimes made out to be.

Anna White, manager of the South Mimms centre, said: "The most common breed we see brought into Southridge is the good old Staffie.

"We have to be careful that they are not treated as second-class citizens.

"There is nothing wrong with these dogs - they are the victims of the piece, not the criminals!"

Three-year-old Milo was adopted from the Packhorse Lane centre at six-months-old.

Owner Michelle Williams, of Elmfield Road, Potters Bar, said Staffordshire bull terrier Milo was a delightful addition to the family.

She said: "Milo is like my right arm and best friend.

"He's such a friendly, happy chap and fits in so well with my young family and sleeps with the two cats we own.

"He is a huge part of our family and we love him."

Anna White is pleading for residents to forget about the negative press and to concentrate on forming a close relationship with a Staffordshire bull terrier and give one a home.

She added: "In the right hands Staffies make wonderful, loyal, playful pets a real delight to own.

"Please consider helping this good old English breed, become one of their supporters not one of their critics."

* If you can offer a Staffordshire bull terrier a new start in life, call the animal care home on 0300 123 0704.