NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS : A heart-warming story of how many thousands of abandoned dogs were found new homes and given happy lives

Clarissa Baldwin's moving and instructive account of her time running Dogs Trust reminds us that every year thousands of dogs are abandoned by their owners. The work of Clarissa and her dedicated teams has given so many dogs the chance of new and happy lives. Their story is proof that upsetting beginning can lead to happy endings.

We call ourselves a nation of dog lovers but every year thousands of dogs are abandoned by their owners. Thanks to the dedication of people like Clarissa Baldwin, former CEO of Dogs Trust, and the carers, vets and other professional staff at the Trust's re-homing centres, homeless dogs are cared for and found new homes where they can live happy lives. Clarissa's story is one of hope and determination and daily success. She has fund-raised millions from generous donors to improve and expand the homes where abandoned dogs can be cared for. She has publicised the Dogs Trust with her memorable line, "A dog is not just for Christmas" and successfully campaigned for changes in the legislation to improve the lives of dogs. Without her inspiring dedication many thousands of dogs would not have been given a second chance. This is the story of Blossom, Teddy, Footie and Freddy and many others that were found lost and confused and were restored to life by the dedicated care of Dogs Trust staff. The joy of this book is that upsetting beginnings can lead to happy endings.