A VET practice has been collecting all types of dog and cat food, as well as bedding and toys, for homeless pets in the area during the festive period.

Kind-hearted members of the public have been dropping donations off at the White Cross Vets practice, at the Parkway Centre, Coulby Newham.

All the goods have now been distributed to Hope Animal Shelter and the Cat Orphanage Teesside to help them over the Christmas season.

Hope Animal Shelter has been helping poorly, injured and abandoned pets for over 30 years at its sanctuary in Loftus. As well as housing several long-term residents, it specialises in rehoming pets that mainly include dogs and cats, as well as some rabbits, ferrets, donkeys and even lamas.

The Cat Orphanage Teesside’s work involves taking in stray and abandoned cats for re-homing, as well as educating owners and assisting with the cost of neutering. The charity also helps local feral cat colonies through a trap-neuter-release programme.

Rob Reid, from White Cross Vets in Coulby Newham, said: “It’s always sad to think of pets being unwanted and without a home at any time of year so it’s fantastic that these organisations are there for them, but they rely heavily on donations, so it’s important we all do our bit to help over the festive period.

“This collection is a great way to lend our support and especially because all pets love comfortable bedding, tasty treats and food, as well as playing with toys, so even the smallest of donations can make a big difference to a homeless pet.”