The 12 dogs of Christmas

CHRISTMAS is about spending time with your loved ones, but spare a thought for the dogs who will be spending the festive period waiting to find a new family and home.

More than 40 dogs will be spending Christmas Day at Dogs Trust Bridgend.

They include nervous English sheepdog cross Womble, best friends Alfie and Daisy, and Honey – the golden retriever who has been at the centre for more than three years.

Around 75 volunteers will be carrying out lots of duties at the centre throughout the festive period, including walking the dogs, playing with them, cleaning kennels and helping during feeding time – with plenty of fuss and cuddles thrown in too.

The centre has also been inundated with donations and gifts just in time for Christmas, with items ranging from tasty chews to leads and blankets.

Kayla Maryon, from Dogs Trust, said: “Christmas Day for the dogs is just like any other day – but we try to make it extra special by giving them their presents which could be a tasty chew or a new blanket or bed.

“We can’t offer them their own sofa or roaring fire so we try to make sure they don’t miss out on any of the fun.

“We have been overwhelmed with all of the lovely donations that have been sent in by members of the public and local businesses.

“We’ve had everything from toys to treat, blankets and beds. Our dogs have been well and truly spoilt!”

Preparing themselves for a post-Christmas influx of unwanted dogs, they are urging the public to remember the charity’s iconic slogan: “A dog is for life, not just for Christmas”.

It follows staggering figures from last year, when the UK charity says it received 18 calls a day from people looking to give up their dogs in the month following Christmas.

Angela Wetherall, rehoming centre manager at Dogs Trust Bridgend, said: “In the weeks following Christmas last year we received almost 600 calls from owners wanting to give up their dog.

“That is so sad as dogs deserve to be treated as a member of the family.

“They aren’t disposable commodities: they are a huge commitment and should be for life.”