An animal charity is asking people not to give pets as presents after a pair of unwanted Christmas gifts have ended up in their care.
Shih-Tzu puppies Charles and Chelsea arrived at the Mayhew Animal Home in Trenmar Gardens, Kensal Green, days after the festivities ended.
The cute pair, who cost £600, have since been rehomed but the Mayhew fear they will take in many more unwanted animals given as gifts.
A spokeswoman said: “Once the novelty of having a puppy or kitten for Christmas is over animal rescue centres may well have to deal with a long list of young dogs and cats that are no longer a joy but have become an unwelcome burden.
“The Mayhew works the year round to promote responsible pet ownership and to ensure that potential owners understand that taking on a family pet is not to be taken lightly.”
For more information about The Mayhew visit www.themayhew.org.
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