Staff at Battersea Brands Hatch are gearing up for the festive season with many dogs and cats likely to be spending their Christmas without a home.

Rehoming and Welfare Manager at Battersea Brands Hatch, Michelle Bevan, said: “A lot of people might be thinking of getting a new pet this Christmas – and we hope people will think of rescue first.

"For some, Christmas can be very busy with lots of noise and visitors, but for others, Christmas is a quiet one to relax with loved ones – if this is the case, it may be the perfect time to bring a new family member into the fold.

"However, we will never rehome pets as surprise presents – they are a big responsibility and need dedicated time to help settle them into their new home.”

Battersea Brands Hatch rehome's animals all year round and 16 animals arrive everyday.

The average stay for a dog is 40 days and 23 days for a cat, but sadly for some of these long stay residents, they’re still waiting.

Michelle added: “Our staff and volunteers will be here every day over the festive period to make Christmas as special as they can with toys and special treats for our animals, including Larry, Jessie and Tom.

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"Rescue dogs and cats come in all shapes and sizes – they may not be perfect, but they’re worth it.”

One in four dogs and cats are rescues and if you are interested in rehoming any of these animals, please visit https://www.battersea.org.uk/

You can join the movement celebrating rescue by following #RescueIsMyFavouriteBreed