This puppy is just for Christmas

22/11/2007

We all know that pets are not just for Christmas, they are serious responsibilities that come with a life-long commitment.  So what can you buy a loved one who is animal mad, but just hasn't got the time or money to take on a pet? 

This year, to help solve the quandary of Christmas shopping, The Blue Cross pet charity has launched a range of alternative gift packages for animal lovers. The 'virtual' gifts comprise a one off donation that goes towards providing vital care for abandoned and unwanted pets.  The packages come with a personalised certificate and a Christmas card explaining how the donation has helped a needy animal.

Every Blue Cross gift given this season is guaranteed to put a smile on someone's face and help an unwanted animal feel loved.  The packages cater for a range of animal lovers and include the following:

Pamper a puppy - £25
Keep a kitten cosy - £15
Sponsor a pony - £15
Bunny Bundles - £10
Rescue package - £50

Each gift donation will help to provide homeless animals with essentials such as a warm bed to sleep in, toys to keep them occupied and health checks to protect them from disease. 

Many homeless pets arrive at Blue Cross adoption centres over the Christmas period and the cost of keeping them warm and happy during the winter months is higher than at other times of the year.  The Blue Cross does not rehome pets in the run up to Christmas to prevent the possibility of them becoming another unwanted present.  But it never closes its doors, which means that its adoption centres are extremely busy and rely on donations from the public more than ever.

The Blue Cross does not receive any government funding, so every virtual gift given this Christmas will make an important contribution.  Each gift not only provides a vulnerable animal with the lasting care and attention it deserves, but also gives someone a thoughtful present that they can treasure. 

All of the gifts can be ordered online via The Blue Cross shop at www.bluecrossshop.co.uk or by calling 0844 557 5327. The cut off date for Christmas orders is the 15th December 2007.

Ends
Notes to editors:

Images of Blue Cross virtual gifts are available upon request. The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.

Media contact:
Ziela Haider, Press Officer - 020 7932 4063 / 07860 519716