Secretary Kristy Kelly said this year the local animal service’s calenders have the theme “Real Men Love Animals”.

“For the first time we have hand drawn cards for sale,” she said. 

“These are very special as they are drawn by a local artist - Rebecca McCoy and are of six animals that have all found their forever homes through Horsham Paws.  

“They have been extremely popular and we have sold out of two types of card.  We have also been busy sending them via mail all over the state, even as far as NSW. There are six types available for sale individually at $3 each or as a set of six for $15.”  

The cards are available for purchase from Paws’ Op Shop at 45 Firebrace Street in Horsham as well as Cafe Chickpea and Farmhouse Deli and Cafe.

Proceeds go towards assisting lost, abandoned and relinquished cats and dogs in the Wimmera.

The service has rehomed 120 cats and 65 dogs this year.

Ms Kelly said Christmas was a tough time for Paws and the animals their volunteers helped.

“People surrender animals and dumping pets as they go on holidays or getting a new kitten or puppy as a Christmas present,” she said. 

“We are currently strained with the amount of kittens that have been surrendered and dumped leading up to Christmas. 

“A few weeks ago we rescued a six-week-old kitten that had been dumped in a rubbish bin in Horsham. It was a 36 degree day, but luckily it was rescued early and has made a full recovery. 

“It’s a timely reminder to take responsibility to desex your animals to prevent unwanted litters.”