If you've always wanted a Harley - then this one is looking for a home

The brindle-coloured canine is desperate to find a loving home after spending the last 12 months in kennels.

His family were forced to give him up due to housing problems.

But life in kennels at Condover, near Shrewsbury, has been difficult for the loving four-year-old as he has been overlooked by the scores of people looking for a pet.

Andrea Newton, of Finding Furever Homes, which cares for Harley in partnership with the private boarding kennels, said Harley's breed and colouring meant that he just didn't stand out.

Harley's plight was highlighted after the death of Bulley the dog, Shropshire's best-known resident of Hilbrae Pets Hotel and Stray Kennels in Cold Hatton, Telford.

Finally, after nine years spent looking for his forever home, Bulley hit the headlines and became an overnight internet sensation, with a fan base of thousands.

Finally in December 2013, a couple from Devon, Babs and David Bufton, came forward to offer him a home – and when they moved to America Bulley went with them and had the time of his life.

The 14-year-old, thought to be a Staffordshire bull terrier crossed with an English bull terrier, spent the remainder of his life travelling across the US before he died earlier this month.

And now those looking after Harley are hoping that he too can find a happier life.

Ms Newton, said: "At any one time as many as 80 per cent of dogs in rescue are Staffordshire bull terriers or staffy cross breeds and brindle is one of the most common colours – so dogs like Harley just don't stand out.

"But he is a lovely dog and every time there are children at the kennels his little face lights up, his ears go up and he wants to run and play with them – he loves a game of football too."

In order to give Harley the best new start, Finding Furever Homes will pay for a trainer to work with a new family to learn how to help him overcome his anxiety of other dogs due to his lack of socialisation as a puppy.

For further information about Finding Furever Homes and anyone wishing to offer Harley a home should visit www.findingfureverhomes.org.uk