A CREDITON veterinary practice is calling on animal lovers to help them give pets in need a happier Christmas.

Jonathan Wood Vets is collecting donations for two pet charities, Hector’s House Cat Rescue and The Blue Cross rehoming unit in Exeter, in the run-up to the festive season.

The practice, part of VetPartners, is asking for donations of pet food, treats, toys, blankets, collars and leads, which they will distribute to the charities.

Items can be dropped off at Jonathan Wood Vets at Barnstaple Cross in Crediton or at its branch surgery at Bernaville Nurseries in Cowley.

The collection is being organised by the practice’s head veterinary nurse Shelly Jefferies, who said the team want to support the efforts of local charities as well as helping pets in need.

She said: “Hector’s House and the Blue Cross are two very worthwhile causes that do fantastic work right at the heart of the community we serve.

“We want every pet to receive the highest levels of care, but sadly there are many that have been neglected or abandoned and won’t be able to spend Christmas with a loving family. Hopefully, these essential items we are collecting will help the charities give these pets a brighter future and help provide the love and care they deserve. 

“Our clients are always very generous and supportive of charities and we’ve been delighted at the number of donations we’ve received so far, but we’d love to see more. The charities are especially in need of cat and kitten food, and food and enrichment toys for rabbits and guinea pigs.

“Any food and treats must be in sealed packages and pre-loved items can be donated, as long as they are in good condition.”

Hector’s House is a Devon-based charity that responds to calls concerning the welfare of cats, and arranges health and veterinary care for strays as well as rehabilitating and rehoming felines. 

Blue Cross is a national pet charity with a centre in Exeter that helps support pets and owners across the South West, including rehoming pets and running a pet food bank.