A DOGS trust has been kept busy after pets were given at Christmas.

The adorable Staffordshire Bull Terrier Cross, Penny, was the first to be rehomed this year.

The eight-week-old was first purchased via an online classified advertising website.

Rehoming manager Lisa Cooper said: “Penny is just one of the many puppies we see bought online before Christmas, but we are pleased that her owners came to us when they realised they might not be able to give Penny the right home.

“Sometimes people don’t appreciate how big a responsibility a puppy is.

“And we ask everyone to really research everything that comes with dog ownership before bringing one into their homes.

“We believe a dog is for life and we have lots of other pooches looking for a loving new owner to make 2019 a year to remember.”

“Last year, the charity rehomed over 12,000 dogs.

“The Dogs Trust Basildon rehomed more than 700.

“As we start the New Year, the charity is ready to find homes for dogs of all shapes and sizes.

“If you are interested in rehoming a dog from Dogs Trust, please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming.

“Or contact your local rehoming centre on 0300 303 0292.

For further information on becoming a foster carer for Dogs Trust, visit https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/fostering/.”

Penny is now settling in.