Christmas is shaping up to be a festive occasion for the dogs at Dogs Trust in Newbury, Berkshire, where around 40 furry residents will enjoy a holiday celebration filled with gifts, treats, and a special Christmas dinner. The charity, which has been caring for dogs throughout the year, aims to make this festive season as enjoyable as possible for those awaiting their forever homes.
A Full Christmas for Four-Legged Friends
This year, the Dogs Trust has cared for 303 dogs, successfully rehoming 248 of them. With Christmas fast approaching, staff and volunteers at the Newbury branch are ensuring that the dogs have a memorable experience. The pups will receive stockings filled with toys, treats, and presents, as well as a holiday feast to enjoy.
Victoria Lisle, Assistant Training and Behaviour Advisor at the charity, explained the efforts to make the season fun for the dogs: “We do all sorts of activities with them, including opening presents. Each dog has a stocking outside their kennel, and by Christmas morning, they’ll be full of exciting goodies.”
The festive celebrations are not limited to gifts and treats. Volunteer kennel assistant Diane Choules, who will be working on Christmas Day, shared her routine. “I start by taking the dogs out for their toilet breaks, cleaning the kennels, and doing laundry. Once that’s done, I take the dogs for their walks,” she said. “It’s such a rewarding experience. The dogs receive the best care, and it’s heartwarming to see them go to loving homes once they’re re-homed.”
Foster Families Spread Holiday Joy
This Christmas, fifteen of the dogs at the Newbury kennel will be spending the festive period in foster homes. Keith and Helen Picard from Reading are hosting Ned and Pop, two Chihuahua-Dachshund crossbreed brothers. Mrs. Picard expressed the joy of fostering: “We get to experience different dogs and it’s so lovely to see them thrive and enjoy themselves with us.”
The charity’s foster scheme plays an essential role in providing a homely environment for dogs during the holidays. “It’s lovely to see the dogs improve and enjoy themselves in a warm, loving environment,” Mrs. Picard added.
Caution Around Christmas Gifts
While the festive season brings joy, it also comes with the reminder of the potential risks associated with acquiring a dog as a Christmas gift. With the increase in demand for puppies during the holidays, the Dogs Trust is urging potential pet owners to consider the long-term commitment of pet ownership.
Victoria Lisle emphasized, “If you’re thinking of getting a dog for Christmas, remember they are a long-term commitment. A dog isn’t just a present—it’s a responsibility that lasts for years.”
Currently, the Dogs Trust is caring for over 1,600 dogs across its re-homing centers and foster homes in the UK and Republic of Ireland. The charity continues to stress the importance of thoughtful, informed decisions when adopting a dog, ensuring that pets are placed in suitable, loving homes.
As the Christmas festivities unfold, Dogs Trust remains dedicated to making the season bright for its canine residents, offering them the care and attention they deserve while they await their forever families.
Related topics:
Study Reveals Key Factors Affecting Dog Food Choices
Demographics Shape Dog Food Preferences, Study Finds
Demographics Shape Dog Food Preferences, Study Finds
