DOGS Trust is getting behind Team Scotland by naming 11 adorable lurcher puppies after the athletes to help them win loving homes.

The playful pups, named in honour of Emma White (Women’s Gymnastic Artistic Team), Grace Reid (Swimming), Hayley Haining (Marathon), Eilish McColgan (Steeplechase), Sarah Clark (Judo), Josh Taylor (Boxing), Daniel Wallace (Swimming), Eilidh Child (Athletics), Liam Davies (Gymnastics), Richie Vernon (Rugby) and Sir Chris Hoy are all going for gold as they hope to find loving homes.

The mischievous seven week old pups have already won the hearts of the athletes with many of them showing their support by helping their namesakes to find homes via social media.

Scottish Legend Liz McColgan even shared a picture of her daughter Eilish’s puppy namesake on Twitter.

Marathon runner Hayley Haining from Kilbirnie, was smitten with little Hayley when she took a break from training to meet her in St George’s Square yesterday.

Sandra Lawton, Dogs Trust Glasgow rehoming centre manager, said: “They are such energetic and determined characters it was only fitting that we named them after our competitors.

“We are so delighted to have so much support from the athletes and we never imagined that Hayley would take time out of her busy preparations to come to help her puppy find a home. We really hope the puppies bring their namesakes lots of luck.The puppies are very affectionate and love to be around people. They are all looking for active, patient owners who will help them settle and become part of the family. They are very young and just like any athlete, they could all do with plenty of training!” Hayley said: “I am thrilled to have a puppy named after me. It was lovely to meet all the pups and especially little Hayley.

“She has long legs and looks like she has the makings of a champion runner already. I hope she brings me luck.” Gymnast and dog lover Emma White said:  “I would have the puppy myself in a heartbeat if I didn’t live in a flat. She is so gorgeous, I really hopes she finds a home soon!” Swimmer Dan Wallace described his message from his puppy namesake on Twitter as: “The cutest good luck message I have ever seen.” If you would like to offer our Commonwealth puppy team or any of the wonderful dogs cared for at Dogs Trust Glasgow a home  please call the Rehoming Centre directly on 0141 773 5130 or visit www.dogstrust.org.uk