TWO chocolate crossbreeds are appealing for families to take them home after a Christmas spent in the kennels.

Izzy and Ace were abandoned at Ramshaw Rescue, near West Auckland, last winter.

Owner of the home Kate Wilson, 42, said: "I don't take dogs if I think they are not likely to find a home.

"Ace and Izzy came in within a month of each other, and they seemed like normal, lively, loveable dogs. They still are, but people won't give them a chance."

Kate said that the problem is they are too overexcited when they see potential parents walking through the kennels.

She said: "They bark and I think this puts people off, but if you get them out, they are just friendly and want a bit of love."

Seven-year-old Ace is an English Bull terrier crossed with Staffordshire Terrier and has a passion for football.

Ms Wilson said: "Ace would be ideal for a family with teenagers, especially boys who could play football with him."

Six-year-old Izzy, a labrador-collie cross, is much more docile.

She said: "I'm just worried that they aren't the prettiest of dogs and they might miss out on giving two families a lot of love."