A HOMELESS dog is already packing its bags in the hope of finding a new home.

Lexi, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross, celebrated her second birthday this month and a new home is at the top of her birthday wish list.

This dog has been a resident at the Sadberge Rehoming Centre since she was 14-weeks-old and staff are keen to ensure her second birthday is the start of a new beginning.

Sharon Boult, training and behaviour advisor at Dogs Trust Darlington, said: "Lots of us have been fortunate enough recently to be packing our cases, ready to go on our summer holidays. In preparation for finding her new home, Lexi has been practising packing her suitcase to leave the centre."

“This new skill is not yet perfect and Lexi does seem to prefer to put herself in the suitcase rather than her toys and favourite blanket. We hope that by her birthday she will have her case in paw before her second birthday.

“This gorgeous girl has lots of energy and gets very excited during playtime. Lexi loves learning new things and being a fun loving lady, she is looking for an owner who has lots of enthusiasm."

Anyone willing to give Lexi a hand with her suitcase and provide her with a home should contact Dogs Trust Darlington on 0300 303 0292 or visit: https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/our-centres/darlington