ANIMAL rescuers have praised the public for their response to a Christmas appeal.

Purbeck-based Margaret Green Animal Rescue wishes to thank the local community for supporting the charity’s Christmas shoe box appeal.

Companies and individuals across the county collected treats and toys for the rescued animals and put them in a shoe box which formed a gift for a rescue pet on Christmas Day.

Thanks to them, every dog or cat that was in the rescue centre on Christmas Day received their own special parcel.

Claire Ross, manager at the charity’s Church Knowle sanctuary, said: “It was truly wonderful to see the cats and small animals here enjoying their new toys on Christmas Day.

“Just because they have not yet found their forever homes, that didn’t mean they had to miss out on all the fun of Christmas.”

The charity wishes to thank all those who took part including people who collected items for a box, collected shoe boxes at a drop-off point or asked colleagues and friends to get involved.

Helen Chittock, manager at Lincoln Farm rescue centre for dogs, added: “We are so grateful to have the support of our local community.

“Thank you so much from all of us, especially those with four legs.”

Margaret Green Animal Rescue would like to wish everybody a very happy and prosperous New Year.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the charity and representatives hope to celebrate this milestone at special events throughout the year.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue takes in all types of unwanted, abandoned and ill-treated animals and re-homes them to caring, loving owners.

Through its three centres, it cares for over 1,200 animals each year.