The annual Paws and Claus photography is making sure Hunter dogs do not miss out on any Christmas cheer as well as supporting the less fortunate furry pals at Hunter Animal Rescue.

This year, Jesmond Stockland will donate $1 from every photograph to Hunter Animal Rescue, to ensure that the organisation can continue to provide love, hope and a home to forgotten animals.

Louise Cossettini has helped change the lives of many pets in the Hunter by registering as ea pet foster parent for many years.

Three months ago, Mrs Cossettini decided to foster 11-month-old Prince, a blue cattle dog that was dumped at the pound.

"The best thing about rescuing these pets is you know they are going to a loving family in the local area," she said.

"It is great watching them develop and getting to know them so you can help the new family once the pet is adopted out."

Hunter Animal Rescue president Jamie Abbott said the pets could be in foster homes anywhere from two weeks to a number of months. She urged families to think before they purchased a pet.

■ The Hunter Animal Rescue Paws and Claus photographs will be taken this weekend, November 16 to 18, from 10am to 4pm at Jesmond Stockland. There will also be a Pet Picnic Day hosted by the Hunter Animal Rescue in Heaton Park, opposite the shopping centre, this Sunday, from 10am to 3pm.