Thank you for my Happy Place

Dogs Trust has unveiled its heartfelt new Christmas campaign, ‘Thank you for my Happy Place’, created by global creative agency of record VCCP Blue.

The campaign celebrates the everyday dedication of dog owners across the UK, recognising the joy, effort and love they pour into giving their dogs a safe, happy home, particularly during the festive season.

At the heart of the campaign is a 60” film titled ‘Thank you for my Happy Place’ which follows the Christmas Day of Buddy, a rescue dog, and his best friend Daisy. Told through a voiceover from Buddy’s perspective, narrated by actor Mark Benton, the film captures their growing connection across everyday moments: muddy walks, celebrations, quiet cuddles and festive joy. It builds to a heartwarming realisation that, for a dog, the best gift isn’t wrapped, it’s the love of a human who makes them feel safe, seen, and at home.

The campaign is inspired by the insight that true happiness for dogs comes from human commitment - the simple, everyday gestures that make them feel safe and loved. The campaign shines a light on those moments, while reinforcing Dogs Trust’s mission to ensure every dog finds the home and human they deserve.

The campaign was developed by VCCP creatives Jade Sturman and Tori Fannon. The film was directed by award-winning filmmaker Neil Gorringe through Girl&Bear Studios, who managed all aspects of production and brought the campaign to life.

The campaign spans across TV, cinema, BVOD, online, national out-of-home with localised Dogs Trust centre thank yous, radio, Display, and social media. Media strategy, planning and buying was handled by the7stars.and is live across the UK from today. This includes a collaboration with Picturehouse for their dog-friendly screening across the festive period. Supporting activity across digital was led by Propellernet and the wider PR press campaign is led by The Ripple Effect.

The advert also features a dog toy, ‘Lucy Longlegs’ which is available to purchase from the Dogs Trust online shop for £8, named after a Lurcher at the charity’s West Calder rehoming centre. All profits will help the charity rescue, rehabilitate and rehome more dogs.