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Free washes for ugly mutts to pampered pooches

Launch of national appeal against animal cruelty

Pooches of all shapes, sizes and character will be treated to free 'scrubs in the tub', pamperings and beach 'bickie-scrambles' at Sumner in Christchurch this Sunday, to promote compassion to animals. The local event coincides with the launch of an annual national appeal against animal cruelty organised by the animal advocacy organisation, SAFE.

SAFE's sixth annual appeal week runs from 15 to 21 December 2003 and includes a nationwide street collection on Friday 19 December.

"We will especially welcome the filthiest and smelliest dogs to offer free washes as they will surely be most in need of some TLC and attention. There won't be any discrimination between ugly mutts and pure breeds. They will all be treated the same, as all animals should be," says SAFE Director Anthony Terry.

"While we'd be very happy to wash and pamper any animal, the chance of cleaning the belly of a pig, or preening the feathers of a few chickens on Sumner beach is probably fairly remote."

"We will certainly be making some canine companions happy this weekend however, sadly, many animals in New Zealand do not lead a life they deserve any day of the year. Instead, they are cruelly mistreated and abused. Many animals, including battery farmed hens and pregnant sows confined in sow stalls, will not be celebrating Christmas with a festive spirit."

Local professional animal groomers and dog handlers have donated their services on Sunday and will be joined by local SAFE volunteers dressed in animal costumes to provide their animal friends and guardians with some additional entertainment.

The free dog washes start at 12 noon, Sunday 14 December on the Esplanade opposite Marriner Street, Christchurch.

For more information contact: Anthony Terry, SAFE Director, 021 611 979.

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