A rescue dog at Dogs Trust Cumbria is in search of his forever home.

One-year-old Ronnie, a lurcher, is a hit with staff and has ball skills like no other.

Staff at the animal shelter said he has the energy of an athlete and always has his eyes on the ball, especially with tennis balls or squeaky toys.

Julie O’Neill, media co-ordinator at Dogs Trust Cumbria, said: "Ronnie is a super lad who is friendly and loving and is never happier than when playing with a ball.

"He has great recall so he will bring the ball back to you for further fun.

(Image: Dogs Trust)

"As he is still a youngster, he can pull on the lead especially when he is excited, so he would benefit from further training and socialisation.

"Ronnie is going to be the best doubles partner for an active owner who enjoys walks in the countryside followed by snuggles on the sofa.

"We are hoping it will soon be Game, Set and Match for lovely Ronnie when he bounds off to his forever home."

Ronnie may be able to share his home with another dog but not with small animals.

He is housetrained, copes well with car journeys, and can be left home alone for short periods once he is settled.

(Image: Dogs Trust)

The pooch is one of the many sighthounds cared for by the Dogs Trust in Cumbria.

This year, the team has rehoused 33 sighthounds, including lurchers, greyhounds, and whippets, and is presently sheltering five more, with three already reserved.

The Dogs Trust is urgently looking for new foster carers to provide temporary homes for dogs like Ronnie until they find their forever home.

For information on how to foster, email HFH.Penrith@dogstrust.org.uk or for details about Ronnie, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/dogs/lurcher/3451053.