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Adorable Shelter Dogs Get to Joyfully Pick Their Own Christmas Gifts

By Jessica Stewart on December 30, 2019

In Ireland, a dog rescue made sure that their pups got a taste of the holidays. Staff and supporters donated toys for the homeless dogs in the shelter, ensuring that they, too, would get a special present for Christmas. And just like kids on Christmas morning, the best part is watching them open their gifts. One by one, 35 dogs were led into a room, where they were each allowed to pick out one toy. The staff at the Dogs Trust Ireland’s Rehoming Center in Dublin filmed the event and edited together the best reactions.

It's impossible not to smile at the joy these dogs have when playing with their new toys. While many seem to hone right in on their gift, others are more selective and give several a try before finding their perfect match. Certainly, the best part is watching as they run around the room with glee, tails wagging and toy squeaking away. Even puppies get in on the action, though they seem a bit overwhelmed by all the choices and distracted by the camera filming them.

Dog Trust Ireland began their Secret Santa Paws event in 2017, with staff buying presents for long-term dog residents. In 2018, they decided to let the dogs pick their own toys and were blown away by the dogs' joy. This year's video is a beautiful reminder of how all living creatures need a little love and care. Just seeing how happy a simple toy makes these dogs is a lesson in gratitude.

As the largest dog rescue in the country, Dogs Trust Ireland has been rehabilitating and rehoming dogs of all shapes and sizes since 2005. While they pause their adoptions during the holiday season, all the dogs in the video hope to have a home in the new year. If anything, the video shows just how smart and full of life each dog is. “Sniffing the toys and picking one out requires concentration for the dogs, and really brings out their different personalities,” writes the organization. “It’s just fantastic for us to see them being so happy over something so simple, and we really, really hope this will help them all get adopted in 2020!”