THIS is one of those almost predictable letters from a dog welfare group at Christmas – but it now has extra importance and edge.

The credit crunch means times are tougher for many but there will still be some people who want to make Christmas even jollier by buying or adopting a dog, especially a puppy.

Stokenchurch Dog Rescue is pleased to offer some lovely dogs – but we hope potential owners are fully aware of what it involves. How great on Christmas morning to have a waggy-tailed, wet-nosed bundle of fun pattering around the house.

It could make this Christmas more memorable for you and there should be many years of enjoyment and companionship.

The dog is good for you – and you are good for the dog.

But sadly a percentage of these Christmas – and birthday – dogs lead eventually to sadness all the way round. New owners need to be aware of the commitment and obligations they have taken on.

The new dog will need some sensible training, quite expensive veterinary treatment occasionally – and daily exercise.

You should also have a secure garden.

Most dog welfare groups will also urge you to have your new pet microchipped and neutered if necessary.

Microchipping means your pet can be reunited if it goes missing and is found. Neutering means there are no unwanted litters.

We do not want to put you off having a dog but sadly every year we have unwanted pets brought to us. Dogs are not throwaway commodities.

Lately there have been some dogs brought in because their heartbroken owners have lost their jobs and therefore have less income, or are moving to different accommodation.

We hope you will adopt one of the 40 dogs we usually have in our kennels and we will give you lots of advice. But do not come to us or other kennels on sudden impulse. Think carefully first.

We were formed in the 1960s and have taken in thousands of dogs and rehomed most of them. We never put a healthy dog to sleep. Next year might be a tough one financially and so if you want to help us, we will much welcome donations.

Geoff Perfitt, Trustee, Stokenchurch Dog Rescue, Tower Farm, Oxford Road, Stokenchurch.