The Rehoming and Rehabilitation of Unwanted Dogs and Cats During the Christmas Holiday

Santa, a dog abandoned two days before Christmas, is looked after by Charlene Gunner at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home on December 27, 2012 in London, England. The home was founded 150 years ago and has rescued, reunited and rehomed over three million dogs and cats. The average stay for a dog is just 28 days although some stay much longer. Around 550 dogs and 200 cats are provided refuge by Battersea at any given time. (Photo by Peter Macdiarmid)

Turnip, a cocker spaniel found abandoned earlier today, is looked after at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home on December 27, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Peter Macdiarmid)

Misletony, a dog abandoned two days before Christmas, is exercised at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home on December 27, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Peter Macdiarmid)

Billie Joe, a ginger kitten found abandoned earlier today with burnt whiskers and a cut mouth, is looked after at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home on December 27, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Peter Macdiarmid)

Poinsetta, a dog abandoned two days before Christmas, is looked after at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home on December 27, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Peter Macdiarmid)