WOOD Green Animal Shelter is urging the people of Fenland to think carefully before considering rehoming a new pet this Christmas, warning against surprise gifts.

The message follows a number of requests from members of the public to the charity to reserve cats, kittens, dogs and puppies until Christmas Eve, in order to surprise their partners, wives, husbands and children this Christmas.

It is important to remember that any animal, whether it be a dog, cat, ferret, rabbit, sheep, chicken or goat, will require care, love and attention throughout its lifetime and not just over the festive period.

The charity is urging people not to opt for surprise gifts and instead talk it through with all family members and staff at Wood Green.

Tigerlilly, a 12-week-old kitten was brought to the charity in January this year as an unwanted Christmas present. She was rehomed by her forever family just a day later.

Deputy Head of Animal Welfare, Linda Cantle, said: “At Wood Green we strongly discourage buying a pet as a surprise gift.

“Throughout the year we emphasise the need to consider your environment and routine before rehoming an animal, this is particularly important during the busy festive period; the addition of a new pet to a home is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly and should include all members of the family in order to make the best possible long term choice.

“Sadly, we see many unwanted animals throughout the year simply because owners didn’t take the time to make the right choice for their lifestyle; we do not want to see these numbers increase this Christmas.

“We would encourage families who want to rehome a pet over Christmas to visit one of our shelters and talk to our friendly staff.”

The shelters are open every day for rehoming over the Christmas period (excluding December 25 and 26).

Across the three shelters in Godmanchester, Heydon and North London, the charity cares for and finds homes for around 5,500 animals every year.

But this Christmas Wood Green knows the demand is going to be greater than ever, after its busiest year so far.

Staff are expecting to care for more than 900 animals this Christmas, which will put a huge strain on resources.

The charity is determined to help as many of them as possible, giving them all the loving care, warmth and food they need, but the publics help is urgently needed.

If you would like to make a gift, call the Wood Green donation hotline on 0844 875 0150.