Don't forget a present for a needy pet . . .

The Rotherham store, at Parkgate Shopping, is encouraging customers to buy an extra gift or make a donation to its Santa Paws appeal.

Store manager Kim Uttley comments: "Pet owners love to treat their own pets at Christmas time, however, it's important to remember that not all pets will be so fortunate this December. That's why we're asking customers to once again support our Santa Paws campaign.

"Customers simply pay for their gift at the till and receive a sticker to place on the product. The gift can then be placed in the charity collection bin found in store.

“We will then invite local rescues to come and collect whatever has been donated.

"Hopefully our customers will be very generous so that Rotherham's most needy pets will get a treat this Christmas."

Teh Santa Paws appeal is part of Pets At Home’s Support Adoption For Pets intiative which has raised more than £1.3 million in the past 12 months thanks to the fundraising efforts of store colleagues and customers.

The money has been used to provide financial support to animal welfare charities and local re-homing centres across the UK.

There are dedicated Adoption Centres in more than 280 of Pets at Home's stores across the UK. These centres are home to a range of different pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and other small animals, all looking for a second chance of happiness, often due to a change in their owner's circumstances.

The charity helped more than 400 re-homing centres and animal welfare organisations in the UK during 2010.

Support Adoption For Pets has raised more than £1.3 million in the past 12 months thanks to the fundraising efforts of store colleagues and customers. The money has been used to provide financial support to animal welfare charities and local re-homing centres across the UK.