Appeal Launched for Festive Donations for Dogs Awaiting Rehoming

An appeal is being made to animal enthusiasts to contribute festive treats and toys for 80 dogs currently residing in a rescue center, awaiting adoption. Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, located in Telford, has established an Amazon wish list for donations, and individuals are also welcome to bring gifts directly to the facility. According to Assistant Manager Thomas Livings, the center has reached its full capacity and maintains a “huge waiting list” for additional dogs to be admitted. Livings explained that donated toys and treats would be placed into large postal sacks, with “Santa Paws” then distributing them to the center’s seven kennel blocks on Christmas Day. He stated, “Rehoming slows down at this time of year, so we’re always full over the Christmas period.” Livings noted a continuous influx of dogs requiring rehoming due to various factors, such as owners’ ill-health and financial difficulties. Mr. Livings further elaborated that staff are exercising additional caution when rehoming dogs during the Christmas season, ensuring they are placed in appropriate homes and are “not just Christmas presents.” He affirmed, “We do make sure we do lots of checks and home visits.” He added, “We make sure that nobody is adopting a dog just as a Christmas gift.” On Christmas Day, staff members will bring food to the center at Roden Lane Farm to prepare Christmas dinner for the animals, he mentioned. However, he also indicated that gifts for the pets are sought, accepting both new and pre-owned items. He commented, “The dogs aren’t fussy, as long as it’s a squeaky toy, or something that they can chew on or play around with.” He concluded, “The dogs don’t mind.” Follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.