CHRISTMAS is normally the worst time of year for poultry.

But Emu the hen from Hampshire is one bird who will be joining in the fun – with an outfit to match.

She is the latest pet entered into the Daily Echo’s Festive Pets competition.

The three-year-old is a former battery farm hen rescued from slaughter by the British Hen Welfare charity and adopted by the Sotiris family in North Baddesley.

Owner Theresa snapped her wearing a Santa cloak ahead of the big day.

Daughter Scarlett, 25, said: “You don’t normally get outfits for just chickens so we had to use one for a dog.

“It wasn’t that easy to put it on her and by the time she did it was only on for ten seconds!”

Chances of a white Christmas look slim but plenty of pooches are snuggled up warm in festive jumpers.

Jack Russell cross Tilly, from Compton, is sporting a red and green pull over.

Daily Echo:

Owner Claire Igglesden, 42, said: “I bought the top online as I decided it was a bit of fun.

“But she doesn’t look too impressed so probably won’t be wearing it much.”

Meanwhile dogs Freddie and Robbie are looking fetching in matching red jumpers.

Daily Echo:

  • HOW TO ENTER

TO nominate your pet in the competition send a photograph, which must have your name, address, contact details and your pet’s name and age included in the email, to picdesk@dailyecho.co.uk.

Alternatively post it to Picture Desk, Southern Daily Echo, Newspaper House, Test Lane, RedbridgeSouthampton, SO16 9JX. The winner will receive a bag of pet goodies.