Thirty years on a dog is still 'for life'

One of the most famous slogans associated with Christmas is 30 years old.

"A dog is for life, not just for Christmas" was thought up by the Dogs Trust in a bid to discourage the animals becoming unwanted presents.

It's estimated 130,000 dogs are bought every year as gifts for Christmas, birthdays and anniversaries, with a significant number subsequently being abandoned because the owners can't cope.

Chief executive of the Dogs Trust Clarissa Baldwin, OBE, says sadly the slogan is just as relevant today as it was back in 1978.

She also wonders if the credit crunch will have an impact on people keeping the pets (play attached audio file):

More on Wednesday's Mandate.

(Picture: Dogs Trust chairman Clarissa Baldwin and furry friend).