Newbury Dogs Trust launches Christmas appeal

“He looked different after we walked him in the rain”, “He wags his tail too much” and "He was scared of the cat next door ” are among reasons dogs are handed in to the trust’s care.
To prevent people thoughtlessly buying dogs as Christmas presents, the charity’s 20 Rehoming Centres will stop rehoming dogs from December 22 to January 2.
It will still be possible to visit the trust and reserve a dog - but not to take any new four-legged friend home until the New Year.
Last year, a four-month-old crossbreed puppy named Jingle became the Newbury trust’s first Christmas casualty. Found as stray before Christmas he began to recover after vets operated to pin his broken leg.
Lucky dogs in the trust’s care over Christmas can expect a day of treats on Christmas Day, said Nicki Barrow, Dogs Trust Newbury Rehoming manager.
Staff and volunteers wear tinsel and hats, decorate the reception area, play Christmas tunes and spoil the 50 rescue dogs at the centre.
“Whilst other people are preparing the turkey, the staff at the centre will be hands on cleaning the kennels and walking the dogs. The dogs get a slice of turkey with their breakfast and at lunchtime, the staff bring out special chews and bones for the dogs to enjoy. The dogs are also treated to another walk and a delicious supper before bedding down after a fun-filled day,” said Ms Barrow.
Sadly, she continued, this wasn’t the case for hundreds of dogs abandoned every Christmas, adding:
“We urge anyone thinking of getting a dog during this busy period to seriously think about the commitment involved before making your decision.”
Adrian Burder, Dogs Trust Chief Executive, said despite the trust’s 36-year-old slogan, A Dog Is For Life, Not Just For Christmas, many dogs were still abandoned over the Christmas period and continued:
“Many of these dogs are bought impulsively online and discarded once the reality of the commitment needed sets in. It’s important to think carefully about the long term cost and responsibility involved before deciding to introduce a four-legged friend into your home.”
Visit ww.dogstrust.org.uk, for pictures and information about dogs currently needing a home, or visit Dogs Trust Newbury, Plumb’s Farm, Hamstead Marshall, RG20 OHR, telephone 01488 658391.