PEOPLE thinking about buying a new dog for Christmas have been urged to take on homeless animals in need of a loving family.

Linda Fegan, who runs the Animal Kingdom Rescue, Padiham, said there are more and more dogs being left without a home, particularly during the Christmas period.

"I'm seeing animals being left homeless daily. Unfortunately, it's chucking out time for some people at this time of year and they get abandoned.

"If people are looking for a new pet I'd ask them to really think about taking on a rescue dog. They've so much to offer and are in need of a good home."

A family from Nelson are hoping to find a good home for their pet dog after discovering their new baby could be allergic to him. The mongrel terrier is about eight years old and well trained.

Linda said: "I have been trying to find a home for him but without success. We need to find somewhere at least temporarily until tests can be done to see if it is the dog she is allergic to."

Linda is also looking for a home for four-year-old German Shepherd and a Jack Russell cross called Bobby, who have both become homeless due to a change in circumstances.

The German Shepherd cross was found abandoned in an alley earlier this year and had to have his leg amputated.

Anyone interested in any of the dogs should contact Animal Kingdom on 01282 773069.