Sadly the January tidal wave of unwanted animals, which had been given as Christmas presents, has hit the re-homing shelters around Oxford.

I find it quite unbelievable that people still do not understand that a dog is for life and not just for Christmas.

Animals do not make good surprise Christmas presents and sensible people understand that looking after an animal is a longterm commitment.

There are hundreds of animals at reputable shelters around Oxford which now urgently need to be re-homed.

Many animals in shelters have already had a tough time; some have suffered appalling cruelty. So it’s important their next home is a home for life.

I hope that next year Father Christmas will give more sensible presents. The animals deserve better.

Cassandra Dutta, Four Paws UK