A dog groomer who has spent the last year helping neglected pooches find a home has launched a new initiative for Christmas.

Lauren Starling, 31, launched her own canine salon, The Dog Pod in Taverham, earlier this year after working for many years in the industry.

She started volunteering for PACT, an independent animal charity based in Hingham, at the start of the year to help care for the dogs that have been neglected, injured and abandoned.

And now, along with her friend Jorgia Adams, she has launched a donation drive to help PACT stock up for the festive season.

Eastern Daily Press: Lauren started her own grooming business, The Dog Pod, earlier in the yearLauren started her own grooming business, The Dog Pod, earlier in the year (Image: Lauren Starling)

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Lauren said: "I just wanted to do something for those poor dogs who have been neglected or mistreated - all they want is to be loved, at the end of the day.

"A lot of them have never been groomed before but they're always so lovely and the majority of them are very calm and give me lots of kisses.

"I guess my grooming means quite a lot because I often do it before the dogs' adoption photos are taken, so we really want every dog to look their best and have the best chance of getting a new home.

Eastern Daily Press: Nail technician Jorgia Adams with her dog RosieNail technician Jorgia Adams with her dog Rosie (Image: Jorgia Adams)

"It's heartbreaking to see some of these dogs come into PACT, but it's honestly such a rewarding thing to do."

Lauren grooms approximately four to five dogs every month at the charity and is now starting a new way to support the animals that PACT cares for.

The PACT Santa Donation Drive will aim to gather items for the sanctuary ahead of a busy couple of months.

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In particular, they are looking for donations of pet food, toys, bedding, blankets, coats for dogs, poo bags as well as monetary donations.

More information can be found on the PACT website and the deadline for the donation drive is December 15.

Lauren added: "We just wanted to do something nice for all these poor animals and honestly even the smallest thing is really appreciated."