IF you are thinking of buying a dog as a surprise for someone this Christmas, then think on.

You will see “Puppies for Sale — Ready for Christmas” in shop windows and on Facebook.

It’s meant to be the season of goodwill. Well for us it should be, but spare a thought for these dogs that are saved and re-homed all year.

From early November through to the end of January, rescue centres suffer their busiest — and worst — time of the year.

That cute puppy at Christmas soon grows into a dog that needs feeding and long walks. As the realisation of the responsibility sets in, and the child's novelty wears off, the poor animals are disposed of by their so called carers/owners.

Rescue centres and the RSPCA around the UK are then left to save these animals from being “put to sleep,” paying vet bills too, because no-one wants them. If you think it will be a great idea, then think, think and think again.

Remember, “A dog is not just for Christmas, it’s for life.”

A Cartmell Little Lever