Five thousand animals are expected to seek refuge this Christmas at The Lost Dogs Home’s North Melbourne and Cranbourne shelters.
Sadly, many of these animals come alone, with no toys to ease the stress of abandonment and a new environment.
But knowing the difference that a simple tennis ball can make to even the shyest of dogs, The Lost Dogs Home spokesperson Suzana Talevski called on pet owners and animal lovers to share the Christmas spirit with the shelter’s furry friends, and donate to the 2024 Annual Toy Drive.
“Each year, thousands of animals are brought into the home during the festive season with nowhere else to go,’’ she said.
“The shelter environment can be stressful for some dogs and cats, and toys help ease that stress by providing enrichment opportunities and activities.
‘’We believe that every pet waiting in a shelter for his or her forever-home deserves the joy of play. Hundreds of lost and abandoned dogs and cats will spend Christmas at [the shelter].
“Toys will make sure they have an extra-special festive season while they wait for the greatest gift of all—a new home.
“We know that the place for our animals is in a permanent loving home, but the reality is we are expecting hundreds of animals to be with us at our North Melbourne and Cranbourne sites over the holiday season, and we are determined to make this time as happy for them as we can.”
Toys that can be accepted include treat dispensing toys, puzzle feeders, durable balls, tennis balls, lick mats, small cat scratchers, ping pong balls, and wand toys. Due to safety reasons, toys with battery packs, plush toys with buttons, eyes, plastic beans, etc., and home-made toys cannot be accepted.
The North Melbourne shelter is located at 2 Gracie Street, North Melbourne.
For more information, visit www.dogshome.com.
