Campaign to Deliver Festive Cheer to Rescued Animals

An appeal has been launched encouraging individuals to prepare shoeboxes filled with gifts for neglected animals during the Christmas season. Two charitable organizations in Gloucestershire, which provide care for approximately 90 animals that have been rescued, have described these holiday boxes as a “lifeline”. In past years, items such as toys, chews, treats, and blankets have been contributed. Sarah Johnson, manager of Teckels Animal Sanctuary, stated, “The shoeboxes are a real lifeline for us. Even though it’s a Christmas appeal, it’s something we use all year round.” Representatives from Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home (CDCH), located in Cambridge, close to Dursley, and Teckels, situated in Whitminster, near Gloucester, reported that “they split the shoeboxes up and spread the treats evenly, so the dogs and cats are always getting something new”. Shelby Tunstall, the corporate and events fundraiser for CDCH, mentioned that the arrival of the shoeboxes generates considerable excitement among the animals. She commented, “It’s really cute and the animals will dig in, take the toys out and help themselves; it’s just an extra way to make Christmas really special.” She further added, “It’s also really nice for the staff – they get so much enjoyment from watching the animals have so much fun with their new toys, and spoiling them.” Ms. Tunstall concluded by saying, “We’re always blown away with just how much support we have, it’s incredible and very humbling.” Additional suitable donations encompass activity toys, for instance, snuffle mats, canned sardines, and soft blankets specifically for felines. Ms. Tunstall also noted, “We’ve got dogs that love teddies, tennis balls and squeaky toys, and the cats currently really like the wand toys with feathers on the bottom.” Dr. Scott Miller, the resident veterinarian for ITV’s This Morning program, visited CDCH and contributed a shoebox. Dr. Miller remarked, “Anything you can give to rescue animals goes a long way. “It doesn’t have to cost money, my daughter Quinn and I donated some of our old cat’s toys.” After being filled and adorned with festive wrapping paper, these shoeboxes can be delivered to any of the charity shops situated throughout Gloucestershire. For updates, follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story suggestions can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.