As children all over the world wait eagerly for a special visit from Santa, some pampered pups in South Yorkshire will be lucky enough to receive a visit a little earlier this year.
Sheffield’s Owlerton Greyhound Stadium opened its doors this December to possibly the UK’s first ever Santa’s Grotto that has been specially designed with dogs in mind.
Dogs can be taken along to the stadium by their owners to be introduced to “Santa Paws” and to be given Christmas gifts. This event was organised in order to raise money for the Sheffield Retired Greyhound Trust.
Many volunteers work for the Trust but also work closely with Owlerton Greyhound Stadium so that they can successfully place ex-racing greyhounds in loving homes at the end of their careers.
Sheffield Retired Greyhound Trust member, Linda Cattlin, said:
“Dogs deserve to be spoiled just as much as the rest of the family at Christmas.”
“We’d also like to raise awareness of the Retired Greyhound Trust as, once people have met the greyhounds up for re-homing, they can’t stay away – they’re such great pets.”
“Although we do have to stress the old adage – a dog’s not just for Christmas.”
She added:
“We have had a really successful day here at the stadium, with dogs of all shapes and sizes taking their turn on Santa’s knee.”
“Dogs have had the chance to be spoiled this festive season, which is what we wanted to do and hopefully more people will know be aware of the charity and the work we do.”
“You never know, we might even see the grotto return in the future.”
For more information about adopting ex-racing greyhounds, please get in touch with Sheffield Retired Greyhound Trust on 0114 2888300.
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