Santa Paws is coming to town

Saturday 09 December 2017

If you go down to the Fort today, you’re sure of a big surprise… It’s not the teddy bears having their picnic, but a troupe of bear-sized dogs full of festive spirit.

Father Christmas might favour reindeer, but the Jersey’s Big Dog Club will be parading their ‘gentle giants’ at 14:30 on the Fort Piazza today to show that these cuddly pups could even give Rudolf a run for his money when it comes to pulling a sleigh.

On the upper level, there’ll be Newfoundlands, Leonburgers and Bernese Mountain dogs all dressed up for Christmas with their carts.

Pictured: Islander Ian Hutchinson with his much-loved Newfy.

For the Bernese Mountain Dogs, cart-pulling shouldn’t be a new challenge. They traditionally undertook that exact task on farms.

Legend has it that Leonburgers – originally from Germany – were bred to mimic lions. 

Newfoundland dogs, which are nearly a metre in height, were originally bred as working dogs for fishermen in Newfoundland, Canada. Due to their giant size, muscular build and thick coat, they 55-80kg beasts are particularly gifted at water rescue.

Pictured: The different kinds of 'Big Dogs' in attendance tomorrow - Bernese Mountain Dogs, Leonburgers, and Newfoundlands.

Tomorrow, however, they’ll be on hand for plenty of hugs with islanders old and young - all they ask for is a donation to Pets As Therapy, a charity that comforts those in need with a furry friend.