Home comforts

DOGS are for life, not just for Christmas.

Despite their famous slogan, the Dogs Trust charity still finds itself caring for abandoned dogs whose owners had not thought about the lifelong commitment of owning a new puppy.

The UK’s largest dog welfare charity is once again urging the public not to give dogs as gifts following their recent research.

The findings show demand for dogs skyrockets in the countdown to

Christmas with online searches puppies increasing by 44%.

Sadly, it also reports that searches by people looking to give up their dogs peak in January. The trust will for be caring for 1,500 stray and abandoned dogs over Christmas and says many are treated like rubbish.

Dogs Trust chief executive Owen Sharp said: “These figures show that people are still thinking to buy a dog in the rush before Christmas.

“It’s very easy to pick a puppy at the click of a button but dogs don’t come with gift receipt.

“Dog ownership is wonderful, and we aren’t saying don’t get a dog.

“We’re just asking that people are sure they are ready for the long-term commitment that comes with it.”

● Visit dogs life to watch advert.

PET-friendliness is the most desirable asset for renters, shows research by lender Landbay.

Nearly one-in-seven thought it vital. An unfurnished home was rated second.

Despite the demand for them, pet-friendly properties are hard to

atrust.org.uk/adogisfor the new Christmas come by. We struggled so much that we saved to buy our first home which we moved into last week, inset picture.

Deborah Mudway of Landbay said: “Renters want to make their property feel like home by bringing pets and their own furniture with them.”