Animates' annual Christmas campaign to help raise much needed funds for the SPCA and the Mobility Assistance Dogs Trust is now underway.

Running until Christmas Eve, the Tree of Hope campaign encourages Kiwis to ‘Return the Love' by making a donation and giving something back to animals and humans in need.

Animates spokesperson Jacqui Baigent says staff are really getting in the Christmas spirit, with the goal of raising as much money as possible.

'As Christmas approaches, it's easy to get wrapped up in the flurry of buying presents, parties and what to cook on Christmas day, but it's important not to forget that giving and sharing extends to animals as well.”

Customers can support the appeal by purchasing a $3, $5 or $10 Joy, Love or Hope decoration to hang on the Tree of Hope in Animates stores and Animates Vetcare clinics nationwide.

Alternatively, donations can be made online on the Animates joy, love, hope Christmas donations appeal page at: www.givealittle.co.nz