FOUR animal-loving businesses have teamed up to help dogs less fortunate this Christmas.

Mucky Paws Dog Grooming in Plumley, Barnyard in Anderton and Northwich Vets and Ella’s Pantry, both in Northwich, have joined forces for the Santa Paws appeal.

The businesses are appealing to residents to donate doggie items which will be donated to Cheshire Dogs’ Home on Christmas Eve.

Items can be dropped off at all four businesses during their usual opening hours.

Laura Edgeley-Gallimore, owner of Barnyard, said: “We want to make sure all of the dogs less fortunate at Christmas have the Christmas they deserve.

“We’re all very animal focused, that is why we decided to do this.”

The appeal has been running for several weeks, and has been well supported by residents. Laura said Cheshire Dogs Home are ‘thrilled’.

She said: “We have had some really brilliant stuff now already. We’ve had dog baskets, beds, toys, used dog coats that no longer fit.

“We’ve had a really good response so far. We want to collect as much as we can, that is why the four businesses have joined together, to try to achieve that.

“We’re all just really gearing it up now, doing what we can, getting the word out there, handing out posters here, there and everywhere.

“With four drop-off points hopefully it makes it as easy as possible.”

Laura said Barnyard was also happy to accept any donations for other animals, which would be donated to appropriate animal charities in the area.