Burnham House Vets in Dover is calling on pet lovers to create stockings for animals in rescue, this Christmas.

Staff at the vets in Castle Street are asking for food and treat donations for animals of all shapes and sizes who will be spending the festive season without a family of their own.

“They will then deliver them to various local rescue centres on Christmas eve.

The appeal is a chance to spread a bit a festive magic around doggy beds, cat baskets, horse boxes and rabbits hutches all over east Kent.

Vet assistant Katie Wells said: “There are all sorts of creatures to create a stocking for. The cats at the Rhodes Minnis Sanctuary like treats and toys, while the pooches at South East Dog Rescue would love a new ball to chase.

'Even the hamsters at Happy Endings would like to peer out on Christmas morning to find a honey bar at the end of their nest.' - Katie Wells

“Even the hamsters at Happy Endings would like to peer out on Christmas morning to find a honey bar at the end of their nest.

She added: “It’s the perfect way to remember a lost pet or to encourage younger members of the family to think about others at Christmas.”

“All you have to do is pop into the reception and ask for a gift tag.”

Each of the chosen rescue centres have identified the animals most in need and written a short sentence about them on a tag.

Ms Wells said: “You can then use the tag to personalise any size stocking filled with food, gifts or treats specially chosen for that animal.”

The staff will be available to offer advice on what may be most suitable for the more unusual recipients.

You can hand your stocking into The Goodwins Veterinary Surgery in Cambridge Road, Walmer or take it into Burnham House in Dover where a special glowing fireplace has been set up for you to place it on.

For more information visit www.burnhamhousevets.com or call 01304 206989 and ask about “Stocking Up For Christmas.”