This year has been, undoubtedly, the hardest year we have faced as a charity, in our nearly 60-year history. Our projected financial loss due to the implications of the pandemic, is simply devastating.
Even though our retail and centre doors are closed under the restrictions of another lockdown and all prospects of community fundraising completely gone we are determined to make Christmas magical!
The dogs need us and we need you! So please join us this festive season and help us raise the funds that we so desperately need to be able to continue to be there for unwanted, homeless dogs.
A nation in lockdown does not mean a nation without kindness, Christmas wishes, entertainment and shopping!
First, let us get you into the Christmas spirit and celebrate our joys by presenting a familiar tale, that might take you by surprise!
'Twas the night before Christmas 2019, when all through their house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by their kennels with care,
They hoped that their families were somewhere out there;
Tammy all nestled and snug in her bed,
While visions of zoomies danced in her head;
Bella was wishing for an owners lap,
To snuggle with at Christmas for an afternoon nap,
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
Their ears pricked up. What was the matter?
To the dog flap they flew and into the dark.
Who is it they thought, as they gave a loud bark.
The moon and the stars in the night all aglow
They looked at each other, wagging tails to and fro
When, what to their wondering eyes should appear,
But Santa Paws and his band of happy volunteers
Santa Paws had a message, listen up he said
By Christmas 2020 you will have your own bed
A family of your own, to love and to lick
Soon you will have your human sidekick
"Now, Daniel! now, Daisy! now, Peter and Vic!
On, Carrie! on Cassey! on, Dave and Beatrix!
There’s work to be done! Dogs – go play with your ball!
Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
Christmas came and went and so did spring
The world wondered what else the year would bring
The dogs at Jerry Green, with longing in their eyes
Hoped for them it would be homemade pies!
For Tammy and Bella their dreams came true
Two special families appeared in June
After over two years of kennel life
It turned out that Santa Paws, was right!
They’ll always remember the friends that they met
Their carer’s love and kindness, they’ll never forget
They hope the message of Santa Paws is known
The wish for all dogs to have a home of their own
This year when he visits, don’t forget to shout
“To have dreams come true, is what Christmas is about!”
For he will reply, as he flies out of sight
Happy Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!
To make a Santa Paws wish for the dogs in our care and those that we haven’t yet met, please make a very special donation by texting.