The DSPCA is calling on the public to open up their homes and foster an animal this Christmas.
The charity's Christmas Foster Programme gives animals a much needed break from their daily routine over the festive season.
The animal welfare group have rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed over 3,500 animals this year.
DSPCA Corporate Relations Manager, Suzanne McGovern, said: “We appeal to the public to open up their homes over the Christmas holiday and foster a pet for the DSPCA.
"The DSPCA provides all food, bedding and items needed during their foster stay.
"It is a wonderful thing to do for an animal in need and has become very popular each year at the DSPCA. Over 30% of the animals end up being officially adopted by their foster family which is wonderful to see.
"Our adoption team also rehome over 2,500 animal each year through our adoption programme which has changed and enriched the lives of many people, children, families, the elderly and people who face social and mental health challenges.”
Any animals that do not get fostered this year will be given special Christmas treats and presents generously donated by new charity partner Lottoland.
The new partnership will also support the DSPCA’s education team which reaches over 150,000 children each year through school visits, work experience programmes, camps and animal welfare.
Lottoland have also presented the DSPCA with a €500 ticket for the largest lottery in the world, the annual Spanish El Gordo Christmas Lottery, worth €2.3 billion. The draw will take place on Sunday, December 22.
Lottoland’s Irish Country Manager, Graham Ross, said: “We’re delighted to partner with the DSPCA for the Christmas period and we’re hoping our donation can bring some festive spirit to the many animals that won’t be lucky enough to find a loving home as part of the Christmas Fostering Appeal.
"The DSPCA do amazing work all year round and we look forward to continuing to support that through 2020, hopefully starting with a big win in Saturday’s massive El Gordo Christmas Lottery."
