A 12-year old boy has embraced Valentine’s Day, successfully bidding to name Animal Welfare League Queensland’s (AWLQ) box of chocolates – three gorgeous Labrador Kelpie cross puppies.

“It’s definitely a ‘box of chocolates’ with a difference,” laughed AWLQ Fundraising Manager Neil Rangeley.

Thorne Lyons had the highest bid during the “In the name of love” auction with $321.

This morning Thorne, his Mother Jackina and Father Thomas came out to meet the puppies.
After just five minutes Thorne was clearly smitten.

“I just love these puppies so much,” he said.

“They are so adorable.

“I wish that I could keep them all.”
The 11 week old puppies have been the talk of the shelter for the past week. Today as part of winning the AWLQ In the name of love auction Thorne named them. The boy of the litter is Twix; Coco and Toffee for the two girls.
Since he was eight years of age Thorne has been a dedicated Animal Welfare League Queensland supporter, donating  even his pocket money for the lifesaving work to continue.

“So far Thorne has donated an incredible $1,700,” Mr Rangeley said.

“He is an incredible example of young people today and their commitment to animal welfare.

“We are very grateful for Thorne’s interest not only in these puppies but also for his ongoing support.”
Mum Jackina says Thorne has always been an animal lover.

“He would take the whole shelter home if he could,” she said.

Thorne was so committed to AWLQ that he became the charity’s Junior Ambassador at age eight. You can read all about Thorne at http://www.awlqld.com.au/ambassador/thorne-lyons/

With two dogs and two cats at home, Thorne has no plans to take up the second option of the prize, first pick at adopting one of the puppies.

He is now just impatiently waiting to turn 15 so that he can then become a junior volunteer at AWLQ’s Gold Coast shelter.