Irish celebrities urge families “adopt don’t shop” this festive season

We’ve heard it time and time again. A puppy is for life, not just for Christmas.

But each year pets are handed over as presents under the tree.

This year, My Lovely Horse Rescue has urged those who do want to bring an animal into their homes this festive period to adopt rather than shop.

The shelter is home to a slew of animals including horses, donkeys, dogs, pigs, goats and cats. And they know just how busy the new year can be with people deciding to give away their newfound pets.

They teamed up with some well-known faces to launch the campaign asking people to be more mindful this Christmas.

Us Irish love our animals so it was no surprise that plenty of stars joined the campaign including Johnny Logan, Lucy Kennedy, Elaine Crowley, Pete the Vet, Rosanna Davidson, Terrie McEvoy, Fionnuala Moran, Enya Martin Comedian, Jenny Greene, Kevin Ryan, Peter Finn, Brendan Courtney, Laura Fox, Zainab Boladale, Keith Walsh, Shirlie Kemp and Norma Sheahan.

To name just a few.

They have been sharing the videos across social media in the run-up to Christmas with the stars sharing their stories about why adoption is the way to go.

The charity was set up 11 years ago by sisters Martina and Deborah Kenny and singer Cathy Davey when they were asked to help rescue two horses in Dublin. Since then they have blossomed into a safe haven for over 800 animals.

You can check out all their adorable furry friends who need a home here.