Maisie, the rabbit, is just the sort of animal a child may dream of owning. Holding Maisie is like holding a ball of cotton wool.
She was born into the care of the RSPCA last June. Her Mum was a stray and all her litter mates have been homed so Maisie is the only one left. She is friendly and is used to being handled. If you can home Maisie, contact Hillingdon RSPCA on 01895 833 417 or see more details at www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk
This year’s Tesco Christmas Gift Guide showing a child appearing to ask to be given a puppy for Christmas has caused upset. Considering how many unwanted puppies animal welfare charities are asked to take in after Christmas, it does seem thoughtless. It is 35 years since Dogs Trust created the slogan “A dog is for life not just for Christmas”.
In order to help parents if a child asks for a pet for Christmas, the National Animal Welfare Trust has compiled a guide outlining reasons why Christmas is not the right time to get a pet and setting out alternative suggestions. These include asking relatives to purchase books on pet care ready for when the child may get a pet. Alternatively, encouraging the child to start a scrap book in which to collect information about specific animals. Or, visiting a Rescue Centre and learning how the animals there will be spending Christmas.
The guide is available from www.nawt.org.uk . If you want to visit the Trust’s Rescue Centre, it is at Tylers Way, Watford-By-Pass WD25 8WT.
It’s good news that Hounslow Animal Welfare Society is holding another Fashion Show. Last year’s was a sell-out with wonderful clothes at reduced prices and this year’s promises to be even better. The evening offers the opportunity to save money on high street ladies clothing plus raise money for charity. It takes place on November 16 at 7.30pm at St Lukes, The Avenue, Kew TW9 2AJ. Tickets are £6 from www.haws-animals.org.uk .
