EL PASO, Texas—The holiday season is here and Animal Services’ very own cuddly mascot, Sunny, will be dressing up as Santa Paws as he goes on a tour of the city, providing free microchips and holiday pet photos.

Santa Paws will be joining Animal Services’ Resource Rovers program on this three-event tour aimed at keeping pets safe and celebrating the holiday season. The City department is encouraging the community to microchip their pets this month as holiday gatherings often create opportunities for pets to go missing.

If your pet is already microchipped, Animal Services is encouraging owners to have your pets’ microchips checked and contact information updated. In addition to the free pet services, families and their pets will be able to take a special holiday photo with Sunny as Santa Paws.

The public will be able to download their photos from the El Paso Animal Services Facebook page, or visitors can take their own photos with their phones or cameras and tag Animal Services.

Event Dates and Locations:

December 9: Dine Out for the Pups Event

1 to 4 p.m. at Trattoria Bella Sera Italian Restaurant, 3512 N Yarbrough

December 11: County of El Paso Pet Walk

9 a.m. to Noon at Ascarate Park, 6900 Delta

December 18: A Home for the Holidays Adoption Event

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at El Paso Animal Services, 5001 Fred Wilson

In addition to the photo fun, Animal Services is accepting any pet food donations for those who want to assist the department’s growing pet food pantry. This program helps families in need who may be struggling to provide for their pets.