BANKIES are being asked to help give dogs at the town’s animal centre a treat by donating items for a new sensory garden.

Many dogs at the Scottish SPCA arrive under-socialised without basic learned behaviours. This is especially apparent in dogs rescued from puppy farms that have never known life outside a kennelled environment.

The new sensory garden is full of different scents which encourage the dogs to use their senses and provides mental stimulation within the surroundings.

Kim Mackrell, assistant manager of the centre in Milton, said: “The idea behind the garden is to provide dogs with sensory stimulation they will never have experienced before.

“It includes different surfaces and textures which are fun for the dogs, as well as other objects and obstacles to provide exercise and to keep the dogs entertained.

“We’ve designed this area to incorporate as many different experiences for the dogs as possible including a safe, quiet space for them to relax in.

“Other centres have sensory gardens and since opening, the teams have witnessed positive changes in the confidence levels of the dogs, especially those who came from puppy farms.

“A special mention needs to go to our volunteer John who has been integral to the construction of the garden.”

The charity say they have been overwhelmed with the generosity of people over the pandemic and are almost ready to open the garden to the dogs, but just need a few more items.

They added: “If people are able to spare anything at all, it will change the lives of the dogs in our care and better prepare them for finding their loving, forever homes.”

Items can be purchased from the centres Amazon wish list at amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/2HRYB6NRA6HNG/ref=cm_go_nav_hz.