ONE of Dorset’s leading animal rescue charities is requesting public support for its Christmas shoe box appeal.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue, which has a centre at Church Knowle, near Corfe Castle, wants residents to bring joy to a rescue pet by filling a shoe box with goodies.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue’s Lucy Compton said: “This time of year is always difficult for us. We see an increase in animals coming into our care during the festive season and less people looking to give a rescued pet a forever home.

“Our heating bills are also more expensive than ever as we strive to make the kennels and cat pens more comfortable during the winter months.”

Lucy says she’d like kind-hearted members of the public to help a rescue cat or dog this Christmas by filling a shoe box with tasty treats and toys.

“Each one that is with us on Christmas Day will receive their own present and have fun opening them,” she added.

Suggestions for dog shoe box items include tennis balls, squeaky toys, treat balls, Rawhide treats, dog biscuit treats and Nylabones.

Meanwhile, suggestions for cat goodies include catnip mice, ping-pong balls, cat biscuit treats, a play tunnel, toy on a string and scrunchie balls.

Visit margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk/shoebox for details on how to donate.