I don't know if Caithness folk hold open house during the Christmas season as I don't live there, but if so, perhaps this is something for animal lovers to think about . Each year in early December, my son and his wife hold an open house . Many people who attend bring small hostess gifts for them. While this is very kind and appreciated, they have requested this year that pet food, towels, blankets and supplies be brought to be donated to their local pet shelter. It is a no kill shelter and run by volunteers. They phoned to find out what was needed most by the shelter and enclosed that information with the invitations . I know donations are needed for the food banks and the homeless and other agencies, but the animals are often forgotten . I know for sure they will be well thought of this year in one shelter!