Pet Circle donates mountain of toys to rescue dogs at Animal Welfare League Queensland

Animals awaiting adoption at Animal Welfare League Queensland were treated to a Christmas surprise, with each pooch able to pick a special gift from a mountain of toys. WATCH THE VIDEO

What do a bear, a turtle and a crab have in common? Dogs of course.

Plush versions of these animals were among the toys chosen by rescue pooches awaiting adoption at Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) recently when a mountain of plush toys donated by Pet Circle was hand delivered by Santa.

Dakota and Bailey, two rescue dogs awaiting adoption, were even found guilty of double dipping.

Any toys left over were distributed across AWLQ’s other locations.

Pet Circle Brand Director, Ella Lymbereas, said toys were regularly donated to Animal Welfare League Queensland throughout the year.

Lilly Pilly is given the opportunity to pick her perfect present. Picture: Pet Circle

“We wanted to share some special Christmas gifts with the dogs in their care, as well as highlight the number of pets at shelters across the country that need a home these holidays,” she said.

Pet Circle is Australia’s largest online pet supplies store. This year they expanded the business to Brisbane, opening a new 26,000 sqm warehouse.

With a strong push for future dog owners to “adopt, don’t shop” this season, Animal Welfare League Queensland hopes to help as many pets find a loving home.

AWLQ spokesman, Craig Montgomery, said it is a difficult time for families and their furry friends.

Marnie Haack from Animal Welfare League Queensland with Bailey. Picture: Pet Circle

“With the cost of living pressures and lack of affordable pet-friendly accommodation, we continue to receive animals over the holidays, and our surrender waiting list is still long,” he said.

With more than 210 animals still waiting to find their “fur-ever” home at AWLQ, Mr Montgomery has encouraged pet owners to reach out to shelters before rehoming as they can provide resources to assist owners.

All the dogs featured in the video (Bailey, Olive, Dakota, Teddy, Lilly Pilly, Little Obelia) are still available for adoption at AWLQ at the time of publishing this story.