A doggy day care owner has recreated the Christmas nativity – with adorable canines posing as Baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the Three Wise Men.
Emma-Jane set up the festive scene using heaps of straw and a backdrop to transform her space into a cosy stable.
The 47-year-old lined up the mutts and dressed them in towels, cloaks and halo headbands for the paw-fect photoshoot.
READ MORE: Influencer hangs tree from ceiling to stop ‘Grinch cat’ from wrecking Christmas
- Advertisement -
The starring role of Baby Jesus went to French Bulldog Beana, while Cocker Spaniel Rosie played Mary and Cockapoo Gracie took on the part of Joseph.
Maltipoo Enzo posed as a king, Cocker Spaniel Bramble played an angel, French Bulldog Nevaeh starred as a sheep, French Bulldog Maggie was cast as the donkey and Cairn Terrier Buzz portrayed one of the Three Wise Men.
“We kept it very simple and dog-friendly,” Emma-Jane, from Wistaston, Cheshire, told What’s the Jam.
“The setup was in our daycare cabin with haystacks and a backdrop.
“Of course, it was done in a calm environment and the costumes that the dogs were wearing were comfortable.
- Advertisement -
“Everything was prepared in advance so the dogs only needed to be involved for short periods, with treats in between.
“The dogs are regulars that come to daycare every week, so I do have a really good rapport with them.
“I kept them still with lots of patience, positive reinforcement and treats.
- Advertisement -
“All of the dogs are used to basic training and posing, so we worked at their pace and kept it relaxed.
“If a dog wasn’t feeling it, we simply took a break.
“Their comfort will always come first.
“It was honestly hilarious.
“There were plenty of outtakes and moments where they completely stole the show.
“It was one of those situations where you’re trying to film but end up laughing instead.
“The sweat was pouring out of me.”
The festive project first began four years ago when Emma-Jane jokingly placed towels on the dogs’ heads for a laugh.
Emma-Jane, who runs Cheshire Dog Lady, added: “The idea came from wanting to do something fun and festive that would make people smile in the lead-up to Christmas.
“Each year has got bigger and better.
“We love celebrating seasonal moments with the dogs, and the nativity is something everyone who follows us has loved.
“The reaction has been amazing. People have been saying how much it made them smile.
“A lot of people have said it’s the wholesome content they needed during a busy and stressful time of year, which has been really lovely to see.”
READ MORE: Cheeky dog on naughty list after trying to expose Father Christmas by pulling off his beard
