Dog training experts are asking people with well-behaved pooches to consider volunteering their pets for a training program to help children overcome their phobias.

The Essex Dog Training Centre in Brentwood runs programmes for children suffering from cynophobia, a morbid fear of dogs.

In some cases the sufferer may be afraid of fur and even dog leads and pictures of dogs. 

A team of trained dogs and handlers will be in Epping High Street this weekend as part of a roadshow to raise awareness about the centre’s programmes.

Roy Dyer, director of training, said: "We are looking for nice family pet dogs of any breed that are under control.

“They do not have to be perfectly trained, just a very good temperament and get on well with children and other dogs.

"We assess all new dogs to a required standard because there is no margin for errors.

“We help lots of children overcome their fear of dogs. It affects their education if they are sitting in class all day worrying about coming across a dog on the way home.

“We have had great feedback from parents saying they could not go on a family day out before and now they can.”

The organisation which started 25 years ago is also looking for handlers to volunteer just one hour a week.

The roadshow will be in Epping High Street on Saturday, August 5 from 10.15am to 3.30pm.

For more information about volunteering email info@essexdogtrainingcentre.co.uk.