In December, dog owners can take their four-legged friends to meet Santa at a Teesside garden centre.

Dobbies' Stockton branch has announced the return of its Santa Paws experience, where pets can enjoy a festive visit to Santa's Grotto.

Running from December 5 to December 24, furry friends will receive a toy, handpicked by Santa, and tailored to their size.

The experience costs £9.99 per dog, with the option to pre-book a discounted professional photograph to capture the memorable moment.

Dobbies has partnered with Dogs Trust, the UK's leading dog welfare charity, to offer customers the option to donate to the charity when purchasing tickets online.

Dogs Trust works to care for, rehabilitate, and rehome thousands of dogs each year.

For families looking to include their children in the festive fun, Santa's Grotto will be open for youngsters, offering a free toy, for £12.99 per child.

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The experience can be booked for a complete family outing, with children able to meet Santa alongside their pets.

Dobbies encourage early booking for customers to avoid disappointment, as places are limited.

The Santa Paws event is not only available at the Stockton branch but also at the Birtley and Northumberland stores in Ponteland and Morpeth.

A spokesperson for Dobbies said: "Watch as your beloved pup shares a delightful moment with Santa, and have the magic captured with a professional photograph.

"Before leaving, dogs will receive a toy carefully selected by Santa and tailored to their size."

Santa and his elves will also play with and entertain pooches, before giving them a present.

The event is set to transform the Dobbies garden centre into a festive haven for pets and families alike.

Tickets for the Santa Paws experience and Santa's Grotto can be booked online at Dobbies' official website, with customers urged to secure their spots early, ensuring their pets and children don't miss out on the festive fun.