Christmas is a time to give, whether to family, friends or others in need.

Dog shelters are a popular choice for those looking to share the love this holiday season – but what do London animal rescue centers really want for Christmas?

TeamDogs spoke to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, in south London, and Mayhew, in Kensal Green, north London, to learn more about how dog lovers can support their dogs.

And from treat packs to must-have gifts, there are plenty of festive gift ideas for dog lovers and supporters to choose from.

Here’s everything about the rescue dogs in Battersea and Mayhew’s wish lists this Christmas.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is one of London’s best-known animal rescue and placement organizations.

The national charity, headquartered in Battersea but with additional branches in Berkshire and Kent, cares for more than 7,000 animals a year, including many rescue dogs.

And luckily for Londoners keen to support Battersea’s efforts, there are plenty of ways to give them a well-deserved gift this Christmas.

First off, there are a number of ‘virtual gifts’ available on the website, ranging from a £ 5 treat pack to a dog welfare kit for £ 25.

If you’re looking to spend a bit more, you can also opt for the £ 50 grooming package or the essential £ 100 welcome kit.

Each comes with an electronic certificate or a printed certificate.

Supporters can also give themselves, a loved one or even their own dog a gift from the online store or from the Battersea Wear Blue for Rescue campaign.

The former has a range of items ranging from all-season winter coats to chew toys and feeding mats, which are “loved” by Battersea’s own animals.

The Wear Blue for Rescue range, on the other hand, has a number of affordable items geared towards humans, ranging from a £ 2 window sticker to a £ 18 tee shirt.

There’s also a £ 3 backing pin and a ceramic mug for £ 12.

All proceeds from the store go directly to help the animals in Battersea’s care.

A Battersea spokesperson added to TeamDogs: “This way you buy a gift for yourself or for someone else. and support Battersea.

Battersea also accepts a number of other merchandise, whether purchased or handmade, throughout the year.

The list, detailed here, includes Vetbed’s specialty dog ​​bedding, “tough, durable and easy to clean” toys, treats, coats, harnesses and more.

Certain items such as dog food, travel cases and pillows, cushions or quilts are not accepted.

Additionally, you can sponsor a kennel for £ 5 per month.

Mayhew

Formerly known as The Mayhew Animal Home, Mayhew is a Kensal Green-based animal welfare charity that helps dogs, cats and people in local communities, London and beyond.

This includes stray animals from all over the world, as well as the pets of homeless people.

Like Battersea, Mayhew asks his future supporters to help their dogs this Christmas by buying their gifts from his shop.

A Mayhew representative commented to TeamDogs: “As a charitable organization, Mayhew receives no government funding and relies on the kind generosity of our sponsors and donors and those who leave us legacies.

“This Christmas, our shop is open for all your Christmas shopping: gifts for your loved ones and of course, your special pet.

“All proceeds go to Mayhew and help us improve the lives of dogs, cats and members of our community.”

There are plenty of gifts for animal lovers, including a Mayhew 2022 dog calendar featuring some of the shelter’s residents, a dog face cover and a printed scarf – plus themed wrapping paper. of the dog to wrap everything up.

As for the dogs, there are treats, plush blankets, bowls and toys.

There’s also a ‘Gifts that make a difference’ section, where you can buy a Christmas dinner for a Mayhew dog for £ 5, choose to sponsor a kennel from £ 60, and more.

The spokesperson added: “Mayhew is always a special place but at Christmas it’s even more wonderful.

“Some of the animals that arrive at the charity’s home in Kensal Green have gone through a very difficult time and our clinic staff go the extra mile to make sure these dogs and cats have the best loving Christmas ever,” hugs and gifts.

“We would like to thank all of our wonderful supporters and volunteers – we couldn’t do what we do without you. “

Alternatively, you can support the vital work Mayhew does throughout the year by donating to his Christmas appeal.