Looking for a Christmas companion?

GIVE a dog or cat a forever loving home this Christmas by adopting from a rescue shelter rather than buying one from a pet shop.

SOUL MATE: Give the gift of life to an animal this Christmas. Picture: Kate Dodd

GIVE a dog or cat a forever loving home this Christmas by adopting from a rescue shelter rather than buying one from a pet shop.

More companion animals are abandoned during the festive season than any other time of year.

People often buy a pet from pet shops with good intentions for a Christmas present, only to discover the owner cannot or does not want to care for a pet. A companion animal is a lifetime commitment.

When purchasing a companion animal for a present, consideration needs to be given as to whether or not the recipient can afford to pay necessary Veterinary fees, proper bedding and shelter, food costs and training. A regular walk for dogs where possible is also a requirement for responsible pet ownership.

Happy Paws Haven is a voluntary registered charity, all companion animals are de-sexed, microchipped and vaccinated ready for adoption.

Full details of animals for adoption can be found on the Happy Paws website or via the RSPCA website.

Rhonda Green.