Dogs Trust Darlington has issued an appeal to find a six year old rescue dog a loving home and finally find her happily ever after.

Bella, a six-year-old lurcher, has been at the centre for more than six months after she arrived as a stray from Ireland.

Described by staff as “beautiful” and “brave”, Bella has been likened to Princess Belle from children’s film Beauty and the Beast as she waits to be whisked away to her forever home.

The Northern Echo: Bella at Dogs Trust Darlington.Bella at Dogs Trust Darlington. (Image: DOGS TRUST DARLINGTON)

Read more: Darlington's Dogs Trust: 6 dogs seeking a forever home

Alex Hennessey, Manager at Dogs Trust Darlington Rehoming Centre, said: “Bella is our heroine as she has had an unsettled time and yet her playful personality always shines through. 

“She is a fun and lively girl who loves company and has been a star with her training.  She happily demonstrates sit to perfection, especially if there is any food on offer, and she has been enjoying learning new tricks with our training and behaviour team."

The Northern Echo: Bella sits with her favourite toys.Bella sits with her favourite toys. (Image: DOGS TRUST DARLINGTON)

Bella is one of ten lurchers currently at the Darlington centre, as the breed comes in third overall for the most popular to be rehomed by Dogs Trust.   

Launching this appeal, the charity is hopeful that this will give Bella and dogs like her the home they so desperately deserve.

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Alex added: “Playing is definitely a favourite pastime and it is when Bella’s character fully comes to life. She would like to be the only pet in her new home with access to a secure off lead garden in which she can play to her hearts content. 

“We hope it won’t be long before our beautiful Bella gets her happy ending and goes home to her Château de Chambord.”