SCOTTISH SPCA Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre is bracing itself for an abundance of unwanted animals this Christmas.

The charity are appealing to pet owners to think twice about trading their old family pet for a new one, or taking on the responsibility of an animal they cannot care for.

Centre manager Anna O’Donnell said: "It's an upsetting reality that in the weeks and months after Christmas our centres are often asked to take in puppies, kittens and other pets who were given as presents. Even worse, some of these animals are dumped like rubbish once the novelty has worn off.

"Every year in the lead up to Christmas we stress that animals should never be bought on a whim or given as surprise presents but some people aren’t getting the message.

"Every January we take in hundreds of animals and it is possible some of these animals had been bought for Christmas. For that reason we are asking people to consider whether they have the time and financial resources to be able to properly care for an animal for life."

In order to reduce the risks of people taking on pets to give away as presents, the charity will stop rehoming puppies, kittens and baby animals between December 19 and January 3, 2017.

This is to ensure the rescue animals aren't being taken on by someone who just wants a new pet for Christmas.

O’Donnell continued: "Our message is simple, a pet is a lifelong commitment and not a present which can be given at Christmas and then forgotten about soon afterwards."

There is no rest for the dedicated staff at the charity’s nine centres throughout Scotland who work 365 days a year.

Over this festive period the Society’s Rescue and Rehoming centres will be closed to members of the public on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and January 2, 2017.

The Scottish SPCA rely entirely on public donations and receive no government or lottery funding.

If people would like to donate this Christmas they can call the charity’s helpline on 03000 999 999 or visit www.scottishspca.org.