MARGARET Green Animal Rescue is appealing to the public to bring joy to a rescue dog this Christmas by filling a shoe box with goodies.

Louise Keeling, from the charity, said: 'This time of year is always difficult for us. We see an increase in animals coming into our care during the festive season and less people looking to give a rescue pet a forever home. Our heating bills are also more expensive than ever as we strive to make the kennels and cat pens more comfortable during the winter months.

'We are asking for kind members of the public to help a rescue dog this Christmas by filling a shoe box with tasty treats and toys for the dogs that are with us over the festive period. Each one that is with us on Christmas day will receive their own present and have fun opening them.

'If you would prefer to make a shoe box for a cat or chicken, or a larger animal such as a horse, pony or sheep, we have all of these animals in rescue at the moment and many more. Having a box of treats and toys to enjoy can make such a difference to a rescue animal that is with us over Christmas. We would like as many as possible so that each pet receiving our care can have one.'

The public is invited to drop off filled shoeboxes at the Wingletang Rescue and Rehoming Centre just outside of Tavistock.

Louise added: 'When you are shopping for goodies for your own pet this season, please put that little something extra in your basket and bring some joy to another pet that isn't so lucky this Christmas.'

Suggestions for shoebox items include good quality cat or dog food, paté, dog toys such as tennis balls, squeaky toys, soft toys, Kongs and treat balls, cat toys such as a catnip mouse or ping pong ball, cat biscuit treats, small pet treats, blankets, jars of Marmite and tins of hotdogs for training purposes, small bags of corn, small pots of dried mealworms, towels and Supameat — beef flavour for hedgehogs.

Anyone who can't make it out to Wingletang before Christmas can drop the boxes off at Westmoor Veterinary Centre in Tavistock and the Bring and Buy Cake Sale at the Parish Rooms, Tavistock on December 20.