THE owner of an animal refuge in the region has been forced to build more kennels to keep pace with an influx of pets abandoned over Christmas.

Chris Spedding, who runs the Hope Animal Sanctuary, in Loftus Bank, east Cleveland, is looking after a dozen dogs and puppies, and an added number of cats, found dumped during the festive break.

"A lot of people seem to get rid of their pets before Christmas so they don't have the hassle if staying with friends over the holiday," he said.

Winter also means the sanctuary has increased costs for food for its grazing animals, including ponies, sheep and goats, said Mr Spedding.

"They need extra food," he said. "We are keeping going, although it can be a struggle. We have quite a few animals waiting to come in and I have taken three telephone calls only this morning. It is when winter comes - that is where the money goes. Very few people will wait for their bills to be paid.