A Labrador puppy was the first to be handed into a rehoming centre this festive season.
Puppy dumped on Christmas Day
Theo, a 10-week-old pup, was handed in on Christmas Day to the West Calder Rehoming centre in West Lothian, Scotland.
Trust bosses say it is "unusual" for a dog to be handed in on Christmas Day itself.
"It is tragic that dogs are still being bought as Christmas gifts then abandoned so quickly," said Susan Tonner, rehoming centre manager at Dogs
Trust, West Calder.
"People give such little thought to the time and effort that is needed in looking after a dog.
"Puppies in particular are very time consuming and need a lot of attention in their first few months."
The Trust say Theo's owners had bought him as a present to themselves but could not look after him.
As he is so young, members of the centre staff will take him home with them over the Christmas period so he doesn't get too scared.
"Christmas is the worst possible environment into which to bring a new animal," Ms Tonner added.
"New pets need a gentle introduction to the family, to be allowed peace and quiet, and gentle handling."
http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-...an%2C_Scotland
Social Networking Bookmarks