An independent pet store in Southampton is using the annual Kong Day next week as a platform to support dogs in local rescue shelters.
Customers and volunteers visiting the store on April 8 will be urged to “stuff a Kong” with treats to mark International Kong Day. The stuffed toys will then be frozen and delivered to St. Francis Animal Welfare, Blue Cross Southampton, RSPCA Solent and Second Chance Animal Rescue shelters the next day.
The Fruit Basket in Stubbington will be donating damaged fruits to be used for stuffing on the day.
Healthy Pet Store managing director Deborah Burrows is urging people who want to make a difference to sheltered dogs to come into the store, roll up their sleeves and help her team to “get stuffing”.
She said: “This is going to be a fun and engaging event for our customers. Children especially will enjoy the experience. Kong toys are wonderful enrichment toys every dog can enjoy, so I’m hoping our volunteers will also come away with plenty of new recipes and ideas they can use at home.”
A spokeswoman for St. Francis Animal Welfare added: “We are delighted that Healthy Pet Store thought of us for Kong Day 2024. We know all of our dogs will be very excited to receive a fully stuffed Kong.
“Some of our dogs need extra help during their stay here and in their adopted home, so we often use enrichment toys to help them settle into their new environment and reduce stress.”
