Animal lovers to sleep in kennels in aid of abandoned dogs group

Six hardy souls are planning to sleep in kennels at the weekend, to raise money for Perthshire Abandoned Dogs Society (PADS).

The animal lovers and their pet dogs will set up camp at Perth Pet Care’s day-care centre on Friday night, with nothing more than sleeping bags and pups for comfort.

Temperatures are expected to reach freezing overnight, but volunteers have been warmed by the generosity of sponsors, who have already smashed the group’s £250 target – reaching £370 with three days to go.

Each camper also has a sponsor sheet and has donated £10 for their place at the kennels.

PADS vice-chairwoman Alison Kennedy said: “This is a great idea.

“I just hope the cuddles from the canines keep these brave volunteers warm enough.

“We are very grateful to them for their efforts and we shall buy extra treats for our homeless dogs this Christmas.”

PADS has rehomed thousands of abandoned dogs since it was set up 32 years ago, but running costs continue to rise annually, sometimes reaching £90,000 per year.

The event comes after hundreds of people slept in Dundee’s Slessor Gardens last weekend to raise money and awareness of human homelessness.

Last month around 70 volunteers huddled round St John’s Kirk in Perth, with just sleeping bags and cardboard to protect them from downpours and freezing conditions.

The group’s efforts raised thousands for local homeless charities.

For information on PADS, go to padsdogrescue.com or call 01764 684491.