Dog re-homing organisation Futures for Dogs has issued an appeal to be cautious when buying puppies for Christmas, at the same time as appealing for new homes for two deserving pooches.

Stevie Henry, founder of the good cause, said: “Bichon frise Olie and Roxy, came to us from a puppy farm and were due to be put to sleep as they are no longer any use to the breeder.

“They have spent their lives shut up in small pens in the dark laying in their own mess. Being beaten if they did not perform correctly for the breeder.”

Ms Henry said the pair have “never known a kind word or a gentle loving touch “

Instead they were used as breeding machines.

Futures for dogs finds homes for dogs that have been mistreated. Many from travellers’ sites or from puppy farms.

The animals are taken to a loving foster owner and prepared for re-homing. It is funded solely from fundraising and donations at events like the Christmas fete at Sandwich Guildhall on Saturday.

In the run up to Christmas they have warned of buying puppies from dealers who could be irresponsible.

She said: “Hundreds are being smuggled and shipped into the country each week from France, Ireland and Wales with no vaccines and false medical records to be sold for that cute Christmas present for kids.

“Any one who has a litter to sell with no parents or who will deliver to your door or meet at a service station could be a puppy farm dealer.

“These animals may have been ripped from their mothers at four or five weeks old and are sold on to unsuspecting owners. Many could be very sick and sadly die.

“Make sure, when buying a pup, that it is vaccinated.

“Get vet details and contact them to check before you buy.

“Any decent breeder will not mind,” she said.