GENEROUS donors have been thanked for their support of a scheme to help homeless people and their dogs.

The Leader reported last week how OWL Cymru had launched an appeal for dog food, leads, toys and coats to help homeless people look after their dogs - especially in the harsh winter months.

Within just two weeks the team at Owl Cymru received a small mountain of gifts which will now be distributed to homeless dog owners across North Wales.

Tracy Brown, a trustee at OWL Cymru, said there are plans to continue the scheme into next year.

She said: “We were hoping it was going to be a good success and it has been.

“We’ve had blankets, dog coats, food, jackets, leads, toys and poo bags - which is a really good one.

“For the person on the street, their dog is their lifeline - it keeps them going.

“This is going to keep their best friend warm, dry and fed.

“We’d like to say a massive thank you.

“This will make a big difference and it is not just about Christmas - it is something we’re going to do all through the year.”

During the Leader’s visit to OWL Cymru in Mold, a donation of dog coats came in from Susan Jones from Shotton.

She told OWL Cymru that when offered a day out by her son Tim as a Christmas treat, she decided she wanted to spend her money on helping the appeal instead.

Bill Brereton, chairman of Owl Cymru, said: “I think it’s tremendous. I am astounded at the generosity of people, just like this morning’s donation.

“It is probably impossible to say how much we’ve had.

“Whatever we said would be an underestimate because there’s more coming in all the time.

“Thank you very much. Clearly people are concerned about animals and other people at Christmas time and it is heartening to see the generosity.”

Donations can continue to be made. Anyone who would like to help with distribution and/or knows of any dog on the street who would benefit from a helping hand can send details to watch@owlcymru.org or contact Tracy Brown on 07841879149.