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Are you looking to help animals at Christmas, or searching for the best Christmas presents for pets or animal lovers?
Keep reading, because with only 10 days left until Christmas, we list the best ways to support animals in need this festive season, as well as list our favourite pet products to put under the tree this year.
Ways to help animals at Christmas
While it’s always fun buying Christmas presents for pets, it can be even more rewarding to support those pets and animals who don’t have a loving home to spend the day with.
So, animal charities across the country are urging people to either personally support animals in need or give a meaningful gift of support to an animal lover on their Christmas list.
There are many different ways to make a difference to animals this festive season; here are some of the most thoughtful ways:
Donate toys or products to local shelter
Hundreds of lost and abandoned dogs and cats will spend this Christmas in a shelter.
Unfortunately, many shelters are overflowing with animals at the moment and in desperate need of toys.
The Dogs’ Refuge Home in Western Australia is one of the shelters that has a long list of gifts it would love the community to donate.
Canned foods such as tuna and sardines, good quality dog food and treats, as well as soft toys and shell pools are some of the most in-need items.
“We always try to give our dogs some extra treats over Christmas,” says President Karen Rhodes.
“But money is tight as always and so we are incredibly grateful to local animal lovers who consider donating a few items and helping us to make Christmas extra special for our dogs.
“We simply can’t continue our work without the support of kind-hearted, caring animal lovers.
“And we would also be incredibly grateful for any monetary donations to our annual Christmas appeal to help keep us going and enable us to rescue more dogs and puppies in 2024.”
The refuge currently has close to 150 dogs in its care and has this month rescued over 50 puppies.
The Lost Dogs’ Home in Victoria says it is in extra need of pet toys this holiday season.
“Hundreds of lost and abandoned dogs and cats will spend Christmas at The Lost Dogs’ Home,” the charity says.
“Your gift of new or pre-loved toys will make sure they have an extra-special festive season while they wait for the greatest gift of all – a new home.
“When buying toys for your pet this Christmas, please consider popping an extra one in your cart to give to a homeless dog or cat.”
The Lost Dogs’ Home has provided their ultimate Christmas Wish List online, making it easier for supporters to know the best toys for dogs to drop at the shelter!
For more information, head to their website or contact your local shelter to find out what they are most in need of this Christmas.
Walk the shelter dogs on Christmas Day (or drop in to thank the workers looking after them)
For shelter pets, Christmas Day is just another day of the year that they don’t have a loving home.
But for the dedicated animal lovers caring for the animals, they are determined to create the best Christmas presents for pets: a lot of love, cuddles, and treats.
So, on December 25, instead of opening gifts at home, you’ll find dog lovers Tracey Orr, James Owen, Simone Van Jaarsveld, Lucy Palumbo and Anikah Krumholectski looking after the 120 homeless hounds at the Dogs’ Refuge Home.
As with every other day of the year, the refuge’s residents need feeding and walking on Christmas day, so these dedicated animal carers as well as dozens of volunteers will be on duty as usual.
“I love caring for the dogs and making a difference so I’m actually glad to be there helping at Christmas,” says Simone.
“We make the day special for the animals in our care, who are just waiting patiently to be adopted.
“I love my job and there are lots of volunteers who come down to the refuge to walk the dogs on Christmas morning, so it’s actually a fun and festive atmosphere on the day.”
Between the staff and a ‘small army’ of dog loving volunteers, Christmas Day will see all the homeless hounds in the refuge’s care have a walk, gain plenty of cuddles and get treated to a special Christmas lunch.
President Karen Rhodes praises staff and volunteers who will look after shelter animals on Christmas Day.
“The team members who are away from their own families helping to care for the homeless and abandoned dogs in our care, are incredibly selfless and I believe that is the real spirit of Christmas,” she says.
Help animals at Christmas and foster a shelter dog or cat
Animal shelters are at a crisis level globally, with cost-of-living pressures and housing shortages leading to an overwhelming number of pets being surrendered.
And as the festive season is already notorious for significantly contributing to pets surrenders, this year, it will only add to the crisis.
So, to help ease increasing pressure on animal shelters, an animal welfare organisation is urging Australians to foster a shelter dog or cat.
“Shelters all need help over Christmas time as their current foster carers go on holidays and have to return the pets to the shelters while they are away,” said Trish Ennis, CEO of CANA.
“Fostering an animal is a great way to help shelters increase the chance of them being adopted. And it’s emotionally rewarding – doing good makes you feel good.”
Volunteer foster carers take on the temporary responsibility for general care and socialisation of dogs and cats.
This care is done in their own homes until they are ready to be adopted.
“Fostering not only provides invaluable care and support for most-in-need animals, but also supports shelters and rescue groups in giving orphaned animals the best possible chance at finding a loving, permanent home,” said Ms Ennis.
Foster care programs
CANA’s members have foster care programs that offer food, bedding, litter trays, bowls and toys as well unlimited advice and support and all veterinary care.
Melissa Penn, President of CANA and Managing Director of the Sydney Dogs and Cats Home in NSW, says the shelter needs foster carers for cats and dogs, particularly large dogs.
“We remove as many obstacles as we can to help people become foster carers. It’s about finding the right animal to go with the right family and home,” she said.
In Victoria, Lort Smith Animal Hospital also needs foster carers for larger dog breeds.
They are also looking for carers for animals needing care post-surgery.
“Christmas is always a busy time with the shelter hitting peak kitten season. Our animals needing foster carers can more than triple during this period,” said Amanda Doolan, the shelter’s Adoption Centre Manager.
“The healing effects of being in a home with a foster carer as opposed to a shelter are priceless.”
Another CANA member, Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania, are in dire need of people to foster a shelter dog.
The charity says it’s particularly Greyhounds, puppies, and those with medical and behavioural issues.
“Our commitment to the well-being of our dogs extends beyond our shelters,” says Mark Wild, CEO of DHoT.
“And foster carers play a pivotal role in providing love and respite,”
“While we currently have 33 active foster carers, the demand is significant.
“Especially in our northern homes where only three carers are available.
“Unfortunately, we lack carers for nursing mums or critical medical/behavioural cases across the state. With just two carers able to take litters statewide, the need is urgent.
“Many dogs, facing challenges in the shelter, require a haven for recovery. It’s not only about the unwell; even long-term residents benefit from a break away from the shelter environment.
“The support of a foster carer can truly make a life-changing difference for these dogs in need.”
If you are considering fostering, contact your local animal shelter to learn more.
Help animals at Christmas by sponsoring
One of the most impactful ways to help animals during the festive season is by sponsoring one in need.
Sponsoring an animal is more than just a financial donation; it’s a commitment to the well-being of a creature that needs protection and care.
It’s also a way to educate and raise awareness about the challenges facing different species.
There are many local and international charities that offer sponsorship, including:
Australian Koala Foundation: Members of the public can adopt a koala for yourself or as a gift for someone special. It’s a unique way to support these iconic Australian animals. Adopt a Koala https://www.savethekoala.com/adopt-a-koala/
Australia Zoo: Get involved in wildlife conservation by adopting one of over 1000 animals at Australia Zoo. This adoption can make a significant difference in wildlife conservation efforts. Adopt An Animal https://australiazoo.com.au/support-wildlife/adopt-an-animal/
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: This program allows you to adopt an orphan elephant, rhino, or giraffe. Adopt an Orphan https://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/orphans
Help animals at Christmas by donating
Another way to spread some Christmas joy to animals in need is by making a donation to your favourite charity.
Your donation can make a huge difference to an animal shelter or wildlife conservation.
Many charities struggle with resources, and your contribution can help them continue their essential work.
And donating for a loved one can also be a touching way to honour their love for animals.
Christmas presents for pets and pet parents; our pick of the best toys for dogs (and other great products)
Ok, so those are some of the ways to help animals in need at this special time of year.
And for those wanting to buy Christmas presents for pets, we list our top picks.
SerotoninKC’s breed specific shampoo and conditioner
Pamper your dog (in this case, French Bulldog) with the luxurious care they deserve. Serotonin KC offers a breed-specific shampoo that’s perfect for maintaining their unique coat and skin needs. Plus, use the discount code AFL10 throughout December for a special treat this festive season.
Oscar & Friends stylish pet accessories
For the fashion-forward pet, Oscar & Friends brings a newly launched collection of fun and affordable Australian pet accessories. From trendy collars and harnesses to chic bandanas and bow ties, these stylish products come in various colorways like blotched floral and summer swirls. Don’t forget to check out their assortment of toys and grooming products too!
Heartly Meals
A culinary treat for your pup: Heartly’s lightly cooked meals are a culinary expression of love for your furry friend. With real meat, fresh veggies, and wholesome ingredients, flavours like Chicken Casserole and Turkey Hotpot are sure to delight even the pickiest eaters. Use the special code DOGXMAS20 for a 20% discount and make this Christmas a delicious celebration for your pet.
Dog Yog treats
Snoopy sticky mat and peanut butter spread is a gamechanger! Combining healthy treats with a practical and easy way to keep dogs entertained and distracted.
Planet A Pet Food
For the eco-conscious pet parent, Planet A Pet Food offers a sustainable and nutritious option. Their entovegan dog food combines upcycled veg and insect protein. A great way to keep your pet healthy while caring for the planet! Special offers:
Get 25% off the No-Meat Chinky Dinner and the No-Meat Mincey Dinner until midnight Friday December 22. Use code: AFL_LAUNCH_25Follow the link to purchase using the discount code: planetapetfood.com.au/discount/AFL_LAUNCH_25
PetSafe’s automatic ball launcher
The PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher is one of the best toys for pets this Christmas. It’s water-resistant for indoor and outdoor fun and includes two tennis balls. You can adjust the launch distance and angle. Safety features, like motion sensors and audible alerts, ensure your dog’s protection. After 30 minutes of play, it enters automatic sleep mode, giving your furry friend a 15-minute rest. Special offers:
Buy one get one free on Chilly Penguins code: CHILLYPENGUINCHALLENGE https://au.petsafe.net/products/chilly-penguin-freezer-toys; 10% off all Busy Buddy toys code: BUSYBUDDY10. The Ball Launcher is currently 40% off with Petbarn https://www.petbarn.com.au/petsafe-automatic-ball-launcher-dog-toy.
Tokio water bottle for dogs
The Tokio bottle is the latest innovation by the Tokio team. It allows pet parents to have a convenient (and stylish) way to carry both water and food. The bottles are stainless steel and thermally insulated with two removable compartments – a portable water bowl and a storage space for treats or kibble. Purchase a bottle online now https://tokioofficial.com (1% of profits go to local dog shelters.
Paw Xplore dog tags
These are a great gift for your own pet to increase their safety and your peace of mind!
From innovative toys to nutritious treats, there’s something special for every furry friend this holiday season, so happy shopping!
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