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Christmas is a time for family, food, and giving—and for hundreds of vulnerable animals across Victoria, a second chance at life is the greatest gift of all.
The Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) has launched its 2025 Christmas Appeal, “Give Every Animal a Second Chance,” to ensure that the estimated 400 animals expected to spend Christmas Day in their care receive the love, safety, and veterinary support they deserve.
It costs more than $65 a day to care for just one animal, covering everything from nutritious food and warm shelter to essential veterinary treatment. That's where the generous Australian community comes in.
“This Christmas, your support can change lives,” says GAWS CEO Helen Cocks. “Every dollar helps an animal move from rescue to recovering, and ultimately, into their forever home.”
A Christmas Tale of Hope: Cerberus's Transformation
While 400 animals await their forever families, one lucky dog recently received the ultimate Christmas miracle: a loving home. This is the inspiring story of Cerberus.
Cerberus, a four-year-old Rottweiler mix, arrived at GAWS frightened, emaciated, and suffering from neglect.
While 400 animals await their forever families, one lucky dog recently received the ultimate Christmas miracle: a loving home. This is the inspiring story of Cerberus.
Cerberus, a four-year-old Rottweiler mix, arrived at GAWS frightened, emaciated, and suffering from neglect.
“When Cerberus arrived, he was in poor condition. At just 24 kilograms, with visible ribs and a severe skin condition, he had endured more than any dog should,” explains GAWS Animal Supervisor – Canine, Danielle Richens.
The dedicated GAWS team immediately provided urgent veterinary care and round-the-clock comfort. Slowly, over many weeks, the care and commitment paid off. Cerberus began to heal, put on weight, and his beautiful, affectionate personality started to emerge.
The Happy Ending: Cerberus’s transformation has been extraordinary! Last week, he got the best Christmas present imaginable: a loving forever home, just in time for the holidays.
In his own words (shared by the GAWS team):
“I don’t need much, just a home that’s kind and gentle. To never worry about my next meal. To know that I’m safe, loved and home. GAWS has already given me a second chance. But they can only keep helping dogs like me because of people like you.”
🎁 How You Can Give a Second Chance This Christmas
Cerberus's story is a beautiful reminder of the incredible work GAWS does every day. This Christmas, you can help them provide more life-saving transformations.
Here are four ways you can open your heart and support the GAWS Christmas Appeal:
1. Make a Donation: A financial gift ensures vulnerable animals receive immediate veterinary care and comfort.
2. Contribute to the GAWS Wishlist: Choose to donate toward specific items that provide comfort and care—from treats and toys to surgical lights and cat caves.
3. Send an eCard: Send a festive GAWS eCard to a loved one while supporting a great cause.
4. Get on the GAWS “Nice Businesses List”: Local businesses can make a meaningful, tax-deductible donation to make a difference.
The Geelong Animal Welfare Society is urging the community to help animals like Cerberus get their second chance at happiness this festive season.
Stay Connected with GAWS
You can follow the amazing work and see more happy ending stories like Cerberus's all year round by connecting with the Geelong Animal Welfare Society on social media!
To donate, contribute to the Wishlist, or read Cerberus's full story, visit gaws.org.au
