There has been a 77 per cent rise in the number of rough sleepers in London this year.

Homeless pet owners to receive hampers filled with canine treats.

Dogs Trust has teamed up with homelessness organisation St Mungo's to deliver canine hampers to people living on the streets of London.

The move forms part of the Dogs Trust Hope Project, a nationwide initiative that provides free veterinary care to homeless pet owners and supports hostels in welcoming dogs. 

This year the project is set to deliver canine hampers to some 200 dogs across Greater London, stuffed to the brim with toys, treats, collars and warm winter coats. 

Dogs Trust pets and housing manager Harriet Page, said: “As temperatures drop, and with Christmas often being a very difficult and lonely time for many, we’re pleased to be able to distribute these hampers and be there for homeless people and their dogs not just at Christmas, but all year round.”

Research published by Dogs Trust shows that between five and 25 per cent of homeless people are dog owners - and this year there has been a 77 per cent rise in the number of new rough sleepers in London. 

As one of the few homelessness organisations that accepts pets into its hostels, St Mungo’s has been working with Dogs Trust for the past two decades to ensure that no dog is a barrier to accessing accomodation.

Among those set to receive a festive hamper this year are Chris and his dog, JC, who live at a dog-friendly St Mungo’s Hostel in Central London. 

Justin said: "When I was made homeless, I spent a year and a half on the streets as I couldn't find any hostels that would accept Gunner. There was no way I was going to separate from him - I do not know what I’d do without him, he helped me get through it.

"Gunner loves his toys and treats from the Dogs Trust hamper, he’s still playing with them now! One day I hope to get my own set of keys to a flat for us to live in together, it will happen one day and all the pain and rubbish from my past will go away."

St Mungo's executive director David Fisher, said: “We are very grateful for the support that Dogs Trust has provided to us and our clients over the many years, through their Hope Project.

“For many, Christmas is a wonderful time of the year but for our clients, this is not always the case. It can be extremely lonely as they watch people reunite in their homes with friends and family, when they may not have seen their own for years.”