SUN PHOTO BY MERAB-MICHAL FAVORITE

At the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County Sunday in Port Charlotte, Pam Smith and Darrel Matuska, in the back row, pose for a family portrait with Stefany Sanchez, Sadie the dog, Santa and Nala the bird, all in the front.

SUN PHOTO BY MERAB-MICHAL FAVORITE

Suneal Nandigam adopted his first dog on Sunday. The Australian cattle dog/blue heeler mix, Pepper, was a perfect Christmas gift.

SUN PHOTO BY MERAB-MICHAL FAVORITE

Punta Gorda residents Bobbi and Bill Germain pose with their dogs, Jesse and Lydia, while they wait for their picture with Santa Sunday at the Animal Welfare League.

SUN PHOTO BY MERAB-MICHAL FAVORITE

Nala, a cockatoo, couldn't get enough of Santa. She kept referring to him as "baby" and giving him kisses during her photo session.

SUN PHOTO BY MERAB-MICHAL FAVORITE

Bron, adopted from the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County three months ago, returned with his owner Marina Rice of Punta Gorda Sunday for a Christmas picture with Santa.