Lonely rescue dogs facing second Christmas in kennels

The RSPCA has rehomed thousands of rescue dogs this year. But many unlucky pooches are set to spend Christmas Day in kennels - and for some it is not their first.

Doris, who was rescued in 2020, has been patiently waiting for loving new owners to come along for 521 days.

This Christmas will be the 10-year-old terrier's second at RSPCA Blackberry Farm Animal Centre in Buckinghamshire.

Four-year-old Labrador Paul also faces his second Christmas in kennels.

He arrived at the RSPCA’s Llys Nini Centre, near Swansea, over a year ago and is described as having a "difficult start in life".

The RSPCA is also desperate for a home for German Shepherd Jake, who will spend his second Christmas at Southridge Animal Centre in Hertfordshire.

The charity said: "The sweet but shy nine-year-old is struggling to bag himself a home as he can be wary around new people and other dogs, but his carers are hoping potential adopters might give him a chance this Christmas."