AN ARTHRITIC dog who was first found as a stray in 2009 is looking for a special home with an extra comfy sofa.

German Shepherd collie cross, Sparky, originally arrived at the Dogs Trust Darlington Rehoming Centre in 2009 and was adopted soon after, but through no fault of his own he has now found himself homeless once again.

Centre manager Sue Embleton said: “It’s such a shame to see Sparky back with us.

“He’s as beautiful as ever but unfortunately he has arthritis so some days he can’t run around as much as he’d like to.

“But he still manages to have lots of fun, particularly playing with his favourite toy which is a squeaky pig that he loves to throw around.

“He adores cuddles, especially when he’s settled down on his big duvet, so we’d love to find him the home he deserves with a family that he can have lots of fun with, but who also understand his condition and can give him lots of TLC.”

Sparky would love to share a home with another dog as he loves his four-legged friends.

He would be a great canine companion for a family with teenagers and he does not like to be left home alone too long.

If you think Sparky could be the one for you, please visit him at Dogs Trust Darlington at Hill House Farm, Sadberge.

The centre is open Friday to Tuesday noon to 4pm, closed Wednesdays and open on Thursday noon to 7pm.

Or to find out more, go to www.dogstrust.org.uk or call 0300-303-0292.