Abandoned dogs will go from rags to riches when they get to snuggle up in blankets with top designer labels like Versace, Louis Vuitton and Chanel this winter.

It’s hoped that the poor pooches won’t mind that they are fake brands seized by Nottingham City Council’s Trading Standards which were otherwise destined for the bin.

In June this year, the Trading Standards team seized over 200 items, including 41 blankets, which were found to be fake designer brands. Instead of destroying the goods, the team has decided to offer them to Castlefield Dog Rescue (part of Castlefield Kennels), Ilkeston.

Trading Standards will be heading down to the kennels on Tuesday 24 October to hand over the donation and meet some the pups who will benefit.

Kathryn Williams, Director of Castlefield Kennels & Head of Castlefield Dog Rescue, said “We are always extremely grateful for donations to help the strays & rescue dogs we care for and these blankets will ensure they have a warm & comfortable bed at the kennels.”

Council quote, said: “It would be a shame to just throw away so many blankets, especially knowing that they could make lots of rescued dogs comfy this winter. We are delighted to donate these blankets to Castlefield Kennels and hope all the dogs will enjoy their new gifts.”

The City Council already partners with the Derbyshire based Kennel who work closely with the council’s Dog Control team to try to rehome stray dogs found around the local area.

Once a stray is located and picked up by the Dog Control unit, the owners are given up to 7 days to come and collect their dogs. After this period Nottingham City will legally assume ownership of that dog. The majority of stray dogs left unclaimed are rehomed thanks to the efforts of Castlefield Dog Rescue.

If anyone is interested in rehoming a dog they can visit – www.castlefieldkennels.co.uk or www.facebook.com/Castlefielddogrescue or follow the Nottingham City Stray Dogs on Facebook here www.facebook.com/NottinghamStrayDogs