A pet isn’t just for Christmas – and these are looking for their forever homes
Brandi is looking for her forever home right now(Image: Bristol Animal Rescue Centre)
We all know the old saying ‘a pet is for life, not just for Christmas‘ and right now there are dogs – and cats – looking to find their forever homes. Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (ARC) currently has a vast number of animals who have been reserved by what will hopefully be their forever families.
However, there are still some on the list waiting for their soulmates and perfect companions to pick them up and give them another chance in a loving home they deserve. In addition to dogs and cats, the Centre also has a number of birds and small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs and gerbils on the list.
At this time of year, some of the animals spending time here even have festive inspired names – like Grinch the rabbit, Klaus the cat, and even gerbils Angel and Gabriel. You can find out more about them on the official Bristol ARC website.
Bristol ARC told BristolLive that they will have 36 animals on site and 16 in foster over Christmas, which doesn’t include any strays that get dropped off between now and over Christmas, as staff take them in every day.
We’ve compiled a list of the dogs and cats among the list this festive season below. Here’s hoping come 2026 they’ll be off this list and in the arms of their new forever families…
Smoochie
Smoochie is looking for his forever home right now(Image: Bristol Animal Rescue Centre)
Age: 3 years
Breed: Domestic Short Haired
What you need to know: Smoochie is a three-year-old male who came in as a stray following an accident in which his pelvis was broken. Now healed, he’s ready to move on to his forever home and is looking for somewhere he can be the perfect lap cat and receive lots of strokes, as well as a garden where he can explore.
Saff
Saff is looking for her forever home right now(Image: Bristol Animal Rescue Centre)
Age: 1 year
Breed: Domestic Short Haired
What you need to know: Saff had a stressful start to her life living in a multi-cat household and then ending up at the rescue centre where she went into foster so she could care for her two vey young kittens. Due to her coming from a multi-cat home, Saff is a carrier of cat flu and must be the only cat in her new home. She’s looking for a relaxed cosy home where she can play and a garden in which she can explore.
Tiana
Tiana is looking for her forever home right now(Image: Bristol Animal Rescue Centre)
Age: 4 years
Breed: Crossbreed
What you need to know: Tiana was found straying in Bristol and is now a lovely big lap dog who is unaware of her size and loves nothing more than a cuddle. She’s described as being very determined and excited to show people how much love she has. She also enjoys training and treats, and is very good on walks. She’s said to be more of a girls girl and can be a bit wary of men to begin with. She’s looking for a big garden of her own to run around in.
Chia and Sesame
Chia and Sesame are looking for their forever home(Image: Bristol Animal Rescue Centre)
Age: 10 weeks
Breed: Domestic Short Haired
What you need to know: Chia and Sesame are siblings who came into the Rescue Centre’s care after a stressful start in a multi cat household. They’re currently a little a nervous and don’t enjoy being lifted but are slowly coming out of their shell. Together they are playful and enjoy each other’s company. Due to having recently recovered from a bout of conjunctivitis, they’re unable to be rehomed with any other cats.
Peaches
Peaches is looking for her forever home right now(Image: Bristol Animal Rescue Centre)
Age: 11 years, 9 months
Breed: Husky
What you need to know: Peaches is still looking for her forever home (you may remember her from a previous BristolLive article) and is described as a gentle introvert looking for adopters who understand the quirky personalities of huskies. She cannot live with cats or children under the age of 12. Being an older dog, she does get tired after a short play or walk, so doesn’t need lots of exercise.
Nessa
Nessa is looking for her forever home right now(Image: Bristol Animal Rescue Centre)
Age: 5 years
Breed: Crossbreed
What you need to know: Another face not shy of being featured on these lists is Nessa, who is still looking for her forever home and who adores her people and would happily spend all day cuddled up with them. She gets very attached and will likely need some support with separation anxiety and, due to her very sheltered start in life, will need adopters who can continue building her skills and confidence. She can live with other dogs and is happy to live with children above the age of 16.
Cody
Cody is looking for his forever home right now(Image: Bristol Animal Rescue Centre)
Age: 8 years
Breed: Yorkshire Terrier
What you need to know: Yet another familiar face still looking for his forever home, Cody is described as a happy chap looking for somewhere to be himself. He won’t be suitable for homes with other animals, or young children, but does like to be in the company of people. A secure, private garden where he can enjoy a good sunbathe and play with toys is a must for Cody.
Brandi
Brandi is looking for her forever home right now(Image: Bristol Animal Rescue Centre)
Age: 9 years
Breed: Jack Russell
What you need to know: And yet another face no stranger to this list, Brandi is looking for an adult-only home, with no other animals and preferably someone who is at home in the day. She loves being the centre of attention and enjoys going for short walks in quiet places where there aren’t too many dogs or heavy traffic.