Molly ArmstrongBBC Scotland
BBC
The rescue centre near Glencaple relies on volunteers and donations
It will be business as usual at Dumfries and Galloway Canine Rescue centre on 25 December, with one crucial, tasty exception – the Christmas dinner.
The dogs stick to their usual routine, but are also fed a special festive feast of turkey and pigs-in-blankets.
The facility near Glencaple has helped find homes for more than 5,000 dogs since it opened in 2003.
Staff work round-the-clock to keep the kennels running smoothly, with dogs being walked, given enrichment activities and treats.
Kennel manager Rebecca Plenderleith said: “Christmas Day follows the usual routine for the dogs, as changes can be unsettling.
“For staff it’s a day filled with Christmas music and silly hats, we make sure everyone is enjoying it.”
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Rebecca says Christmas is a really fun day to work
Rebecca said her Christmas wish would be to find a forever home for Molly, a nine-year-old terrier cross.
“She came to us after her owner sadly passed away,” she added.
“Unfortunately we’ve had people book an appointment to see her, and cancel at the last minute.
“As she’s an older girl, she would like a nice quiet home – maybe somebody that’s retired and happy to spend lots of time on the sofa snuggling with her.”
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Nine-year-old Molly is looking for a ‘forever home’
Rebecca said none of their dogs would make it onto Santa’s naughty list – but the cheekiest was Geoff, a Caucasian Shepherd cross.
“He is a big lovable goofball because he’s so young,” she said.
“If there was a Christmas tree with baubles around, I would make sure that he was well away from it because his tail would send them flying!”
Caucasian Shepherd cross Geoff ‘loves everybody and always wants to play’
Rebecca urged people planning to get a dog to either adopt or shop responsibly.
“This can go out of your head when you see a cute puppy but it is very important,” she said.
“If you decide to buy, always check where the dog is coming from.
“Make sure they are an ethical breeder who has done the necessary health testing, and who can show you the dog with their parents.
“But if you do choose to adopt, we would love for you to put an application in for one of our dogs.”
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Frankie the two-and-half-year-old lurcher was taken in as a stray
She said some people still do not realise the commitment that comes with having a dog as a pet.
“It’s a very cute idea to give a dog as a present for Christmas,” Rebecca said.
“But we have to remember that you are taking a life into your home and there’s a lot of care that goes into giving them everything they need.”
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Ernie the lurcher has been rehomed just in time for Christmas
The centre is a charity which is reliant on local support to keep their shelves stocked with food and treats for the dogs.
“We have been incredibly lucky with our donors, the community is wonderful,” Rebecca said.
“If we have a need we put it on Facebook and all of a sudden after having an empty store, we have lots of stuff.”
Food is not the only thing the centre has received in the run up to Christmas.
Eileen Smith adopted her beloved dog Dexter eight years ago
During the BBC’s visit to the kennels just before Christmas, Eileen Smith arrived to donate two large bags filled with dog toys.
She said it was “to thank the rescue centre for all they do”.
“I come and visit every year to give something back,” she added.
The centre has seven permanent members of staff along with many volunteers
Volunteer John Burton, who spoke to the BBC on a morning walk with dog Frankie, said: “When I retired, I wanted to do something meaningful.
“The dogs need people and I’d say to anyone thinking of volunteering, do it.”
Susie Richardson and Carol Herron volunteer in the charity’s shop in Dumfries
Susie Richardson and Carol Herron also volunteer for the charity at its shop in Friars Vennel, Dumfries.
“You meet all kinds of people here, and its great to give back to the local community,” Carol said.
“It’s rewarding to know we are helping to keep the centre running.”
Rebecca said she was grateful to everyone who supports the charity.
“We will still be here in the new year when all of the all of the tinsel and sparkle is gone,” she added.
“So if you’re still wanting to volunteer then we’ll be here for you.”
