Puppy handed in for rehoming – on Christmas Day

A LABRADOR puppy was the first to be handed in to a rehoming centre this festive season, the Dogs Trust said.

Theo, a 10-week-old pup, was handed in on Christmas Day to the West Calder Rehoming centre in West Lothian, Scotland.

Trust bosses say it is unusual for a dog to be handed in on Christmas Day itself.

“It is tragic that dogs are still being bought as Christmas gifts then abandoned so quickly,” said Susan Tonner, rehoming centre manager at Dogs Trust, West Calder. “People give such little thought to the time and effort that is needed.

“Puppies in particular are very time-consuming and need a lot of attention.”

The trust says Theo’s owners had bought him as a present to themselves but could not look after him. As he is so young, members of the centre staff will take him home with them over the Christmas period so he doesn’t get too scared.

“Christmas is the worst possible environment into which to bring a new animal,” Ms Tonner added.

“New pets need a gentle introduction to the family, to be allowed peace and quiet, and gentle handling.”

The charity’s 17 rehoming centres will stop rehoming dogs until January 3, in Scotland, to prevent people buying dogs as Christmas presents. People will still be able to visit the centres and reserve a dog, but will not be able to take it home until the new year.