Dogs Trust Merseyside will be looking after more than 80 dogs this Christmas.

The staff and volunteers are asking local dog lovers to donate toys and treats to ensure that each dog receives a special gift on Christmas Day.

They are keen to give every dog in their care the most enjoyable Christmas possible, despite the fact that they won't be spending it in a permanent home.

Georgina Lowery, manager at Dogs Trust Merseyside, said: "In some ways, Christmas Day is no different at the rehoming centre as kennels need cleaning, dogs need walking, and the laundry needs doing.

"But we always like to do our best to make it special for the dogs, and ensure the rehoming centre is a happy place for them until they find their forever home.

"Every year we are able to do that thanks to the support we get from the community, and we are really hoping this year is no different, but the space under our Christmas tree is pretty bare at the moment."

One dog who is set to be at the centre at Christmas is 13-year-old Shih Tzu Oscar, who has been there since 2021.

Ms Lowery said: "Oscar arrived with us in 2021 and giving him and our other long-term dogs who have spent previous Christmases with us the best time possible, is really important.

"Some dogs like squeaky toys, others love to chase a ball, big or small, some prefer a tasty treat to enjoy, and others prefer food puzzles to keep their brains active.

"We have an Amazon Wish List on the Dogs Trust website which helps us make sure we receive what we really need and our dogs enjoy the most, but we love getting any donations and whatever we get will be put to very good use."

The Dogs Trust team and volunteers aim to make the festive season as special as possible for the dogs without a home.

They strive to meet each dog's individual preferences, providing them with their favourite type of toy or treat.

Donations can be dropped off or posted to Dogs Trust Merseyside at Whiston Lane, Huyton, Liverpool, L36 6HP.

The rehoming centre’s Amazon Wish List is available for those who would like to contribute in this way online.