Families will line up for hours to get their children's pictures taken with Santa. Similarly animal lovers will wait - albeit in shorter lines - to have their beloved dog or cat's picture taken each year with Ol' Saint Nick.

Given that Santa's connection with animals is well documented, it should be no shock that he's going to demonstrate his depth of love for creatures this Christmas by stopping by the Patti Dale Animal Shelter on Saturday.

While there, he's going to have pictures taken with some of Langley's most beloved pets, and at the same time help the staff and volunteer ensure a Merry Christmas for all the shelter animals.

Hosting pet pictures with Santa has become a fun and rewarding tradition for the Langley Animal Protection Society, said shelter manager Sean Baker.

This year, the pets can pose with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 1, at the shelter (26220 56th Ave.) by appointment only from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., or on a drop-in basis between 2 and 3 p.m.

"Because Santa will be busy on the day, please call us by Nov. 29, at 604-857-5055 to book your appointment," Baker said.

The picture taking is offered in exchange for a minimum $20 donation.

"All proceeds from Santa photos will help Langley animals in need have a Merry Christmas," Baker said, noting prints will be available for pickup the following week.