Festive fun for our four-legged friends

The tradition, first started by Dogs Trust Ireland in 2017, has brought joy to hundreds of dogs as they choose their own Christmas gift

Dogs Trust Ireland has released its annual ‘Santa Paws Day’ video, showing rescue dogs choosing their own Christmas presents in a heart-warming festive tradition now in its ninth year. The charity received more than 870 donated toys this year to help the dogs in their care celebrate the special day. First launched by Dogs Trust Ireland in 2017, the Santa Paws initiative has since brought festive cheer to hundreds of rescue dogs and dog lovers alike.

Dogs Trust currently cares for over 200 dogs, many of whom will be spending Christmas in their care. To make the festive period extra special, the team line up hundreds of generously donated toys, allowing the dogs to choose from the vast selection. The heartwarming event is captured on video and highlights each dog's unique personality as they make their thoughtful selections.

Some dogs, like Benny a 5-year-old crossbreed carefully inspected (and squeak-tested) every toy in the line-up before making their choice. While others, completely overcome with the excitement of seeing so many fun things all in one place, like Dante a 3-year-old crossbreed, end up grabbing the first toy they lay eyes on.

Communications Manager at Dogs Trust Ireland, Paulina Padlo, says: "Santa Paws Day is one of the highlights of the year for the dogs in our care, our team, and our supporters. Watching their unbridled joy as they choose a gift never fails to raise a smile. We were blown away by people’s generosity this year, as we received more than 870 donated toys, making this year our biggest and best Santa Paws Day yet.

It's also wonderful to see other animal rescues around the world take up the tradition after seeing our videos, helping to spread a little festive magic even further.’’

So far this year, Dogs Trust has helped to find loving homes for over 800 dogs. However, the charity says it is continuing to face pressure, having received more than 2,600 requests from owners seeking to surrender their dogs this past year. Some of the most common reasons behind the surrender requests were behaviour and accommodation issues, and owners struggling to find enough time to care for their dog.

With over 200 dogs to care for throughout the festive period, Dogs Trust is asking for the public's support. Donations can be made at DogsTrust.ie/santapaws