THEY might be considered strays but dogs staying at a Leominster charity will not be forgotten this Christmas.

Founded by Carol Smith 12 years ago, Hereford and Worcester Animal Rescue Centre provides an interim home for abandoned dogs.

There are around 10 or 11 animals currently in kennels with more in foster care and several more waiting to come in from away.

But Carol insists that the dogs – though unlikely to be re-homed over Christmas – did receive their own special festive treats this year.

“They all got a Christmas dinner,” said Carol.

Chicken and pigs in blankets were on the menu while other supporters knitted Christmas jumpers for the dogs to ensure they were spoiled.

To Carol - and the other loyal volunteers - yesterday (Wednesday) was a normal working day.

The public were also invited to join the Christmas party and some took the chance to look at the option of giving a dog a home.

Carol said that finding new owners gives a happy ending to an often sad tale.

She said that one of their dogs – an America bulldog called Stan - has been waiting to be re-homed for more than a year.

"He was originally re-homed about five or six years ago," she added.

"But his new owner became pregnant and thought it wasn't a good idea and he returned."

The dogs receive exercise thanks to a core group of around 10 walking volunteers - but more are always welcome.

"We try and make it as nice and homely as possible," Carol said.

"They all have a sofa or armchair in their kennel.”

Carol urged people to think about taking a dog on but did urge a word of caution.

She said: "Don’t just jump in. None of us dog lovers can imagine it but many pets are just thrown away.

"We get lots of stray dogs in and manage to trace the owner but they just don't want to know."

She is also asking people to challenge the stigma that come with bigger dogs with bad reputations such as Staffies.

"We have always had more of them," she said. "People should consider them because 99 per cent are wonderful and the owners are at fault when there are problems."

To help, call the centre on 01568 760033.