Hounds all wrapped up for winter
THE cold winter nights will be made a little warmer for abandoned Ipswich dogs, thanks to the efforts of some kind-hearted kids.
The Ipswich Animal Welfare League has been in desperate need of blankets to keep its hounds from shivering through the depths of winter.
Its calls were heeded by the children at Play and Learn Early Learning Centre, Raceview, who, despite their young age, gathered blankets, food and toys for the cuddly canines.
Kindy room group leader Charmaine Mateinanui read about the plight of Molly the king charles cavalier-cross- Maltese in the QT.
She then read the story to her class, which grabbed the attention of the children.
The next day supplies began rolling in.
"The more the children brought in the bigger it became. They first suggested blankets and toys, and then someone said food," she said.
Ms Mateinanui said the children learnt a lesson in empathy and compassion.
"It's been a great learning experience for the children as a whole, teaching the next generation about caring for animals," she said.
The piles of winter goodies were handed over to AWL education officer Kathryn Calthorpe last week.
She said seeing generosity from children so young was outstanding.
The centre also has sponsored the West Ipswich kennel to the value of $500.
