Cosy Christmas In Store For Rescued Residents

On the night before Christmas at the RSPCA Isle of Wight Centre in Godshill, you might well hear the stirrings of a variety of creatures, all of them waiting expectantly for the staff to arrive and the day to start.

While most Islanders are busy opening presents, or tucking into something festive, spare a thought for the RSPCA team, who are heading into work to ensure the animals in their care are given as happy a Christmas.

Animal Centre Manager, Hannah Allen Western, said:

“Of course our animals are well looked after every day but we do like to give them a little extra fuss on Christmas Day.

"It is often their first one away from home and it must all feel very strange for them.”

The day starts at 8.30am when, after a good morning and a check that all is well, the animals are each given a special gift, some treats and a cosy blanket.

The staff and volunteers then get through their normal routine of cleaning pods, hutches and kennels - with the backdrop of Christmas tunes of course.

During the morning, the dogs are then given a walk around the woodland or exercised in one of the free running enclosures where they receive more gifts for some extra outdoor fun on Christmas day.

Food comes next and thanks to a very generous benefactor, three home-roasted turkeys that are delivered every Christmas Eve, are shared amongst the dogs and cats.

Hannah added:

‘We rely so much on our donors who help us give the animals the best day ever. And it’s not just the animals that love it – the staff enjoy
the day too!”

"There is no shortage of people wanting to work and volunteer on Christmas Day because the atmosphere is so festive.

"This means that everyone has a little more time to spend with each of the animals.

"Many of you will know that we share our site with Bohemia Boarding, whose profits generated by boarding fees go directly towards supporting the less fortunate animals in the branch.

"This Christmas we are fully booked with cats and dogs enjoying their holidays with us — they will also receive a stocking, treats and an extra cuddle or two to celebrate."

As the day wears on and the animals curl up for a quiet nap – the staff take some time out to enjoy a little time out for their own, well-deserved Christmas dinner.