A dog banished outside for fear of fleas, is now looking for his forever home.

Dougie is a three-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier cross bulldog.

He was handed in to Oak Tree Animals' Charity following concerns for his welfare.

The canine had been banished from the house and bombarded with off-the-shelf flea treatments, in a bid to stop him catching the tny creatures - and then spreading them.

His owners' fears were so great, that it was felt Dougie would be better placed with another family.

Dougie was taken in at Oak Tree Farm, in Wetheral, and quickly became a firm favourite with the charity's staff.

A spokeswoman admitted he can get over-excited with his toys, and so Dougie is looking for an adult-only home.

She added: "Dougie is an extremely friendly dog who enjoys his walks and interactions with staff and volunteers."

Gina Antonacci, Dougie’s caseworker, continued: “Dougie is a fabulous character and into everything.

"We would always advise owners to follow a carefully planned flea treatment programme using products obtained from their vet. This will not only prevent fleas, but also save money in the long term.

"Should your pet have fleas you should always remember to treat your home using a household flea spray in addition to treating your pet.

"Household flea spray should not be used directly on your pet.”

Oak Tree Animals’ Charity is currently partnered with Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, to promote the softer side of Staffies - a breed of dog which has a bad reputation.

However, Oak Tree wants to remind the public that the breed were once called 'nanny dogs' for their soft and loving nature.

Gina said: “Dougie, is an excellent example of a softer staffie, he loves meeting people and getting out and about.”

The charity is this week raising awareness about some of its residents needing homes, to tie in with Animal Rescue Live, the Channel 4 programme airing every night this week.

Hosted by Supervet Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, it aims to rehome as many of the UK's rescue animals as possible this week.

The nightly live show sees the hosts in various refuges and animal shelters, highlighting some of those creatures in need of a forever family, as well as showcasing animals from other centres.

For more information about how you can rehome dogs like Dougie, visit www.oaktreeanimals.org.uk or call 01228 560082.