'Every dog deserves a Christmas dinner': Street Paws charity delivers festive feast for homeless dogs in Leeds

Street Paws provides vital veterinary care and food parcels to the dogs of rough sleepers in cities across the UK.

On the first Thursday of every month, Leeds volunteers fill a van with vital medicines and flea treatment, as well as food, toys and dog coats.

They treat dogs on City Square before walking through the city centre, offering vet care to dogs they spot on the streets.

The charity has launched a campaign with Burns Pet Nutrition to ensure homeless dogs are cared for this Christmas, backed by former rugby union referee Nigel Owens MBE.

Burns Pet Nutrition has arranged a special 'festive feast' for those with dogs on the streets.

There are now an estimated 50,000 homeless dogs living rough with their owners in the UK, with many relying on charities and donations for food.

Street Paws says that for many rough sleepers, a dog is their primary source of comfort and close companionship.

But with only 10 per cent of shelters across the UK accepting homeless people and their dogs, the charity says it is difficult for those with a canine companion to stay safe.

Street Paws founder Michelle Southern said: "With Christmas just around the corner, we’re seeing an unprecedented number of homeless people and dogs.

"We are working tirelessly with our partners, Burns Pet Nutrition, to ensure that this Christmas, we can ensure that homeless dogs are cared for, and fed during the festive period.

"Street Paws is hoping this campaign with Nigel Owens will spark awareness of the devastating plight facing thousands of homeless people and loyal dogs sleeping rough on our UK streets.”

Having recently announced his retirement from international rugby, Nigel Owens MBE has backed the campaign.

He said: “Whilst most family canine members are enjoying a festive time at home, there’s an alarming number of homeless people with beloved pets that are not enjoying such comforts.

"As Christmas fast approaches, we’d love to ensure that every dog receives a Christmas festive feast that is nutritious and fills its belly.

"Every dog deserves a Christmas dinner.”

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