A SPECIAL appeal has been launched to raise funds for pets spending Christmas at a North Yorkshire rescue centre.

Pets at Home in Northallerton is taking part in the nationwide fundraiser to help raise money for rescue pets at Blue Cross Thirsk, as part of the annual Santa Paws appeal by Support Adoption For Pets, the UK’s largest grant giving pet charity.

The appeal, which launched November 22 and runs until Christmas Eve, is raising money to help pay for essential vet bills and care costs over the festive period.

The store team in Pets at Home Northallerton will be raising money for Blue Cross Thirsk, along with other Pets At Home stores across the UK, which will be raising funds for other local rescue centres.

The Santa Paws appeal marks the final fundraising event of 2019 for Support Adoption For Pets, which launched its Charity of the Year program earlier this year.

Amy Wilson, Support Adoption For Pets fundraising manager, said: “Every year we are amazed by the generosity of Pets at Home customers and pet owners, and we are delighted to be able to launch the Santa Paws appeal once again.

“We hope that people will spare a moment’s thought for those pets who sadly find themselves without a home for Christmas this year."

"Every donation helps."

To find out more about Support Adoption For Pets or to support the charity visit https://www.supportadoptionforpets.co.uk/santa-paws/.