DEAR EDITOR, - Despite all the festive warnings, there may be some families which received puppies or dogs as gifts this Christmas.

Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity, asks that all new dog owners take time to think about our famous slogan: A dog is For Life, Not Just For Christmas, and that they remember it all year round.

The early part of the year is often a hard time for dog welfare charities as they are under pressure to care for the many thousands of unwanted dogs given as presents at Christmas and discarded when they become a nuisance as the novelty wears off.

We would also ask that owners make a New Year's resolution to ensure their new pet has the best start in life, and think about booking training classes.

Organisations such as Dogs Trust are the ones that have to pick up the pieces when last years Christmas present becomes this years obligation.

So please take that time to train your new dog and make sure he stays with you for life.

Clarissa Baldwin Chief Executive Officer Dogs Trust