A dog with a 'heartbreaking' story has still not found a home despite several campaigns by a North Yorkshire rescue centre.

Betsy, a brindle-coloured whippet crossbreed, was just four months old when she arrived at the RSPCA’s Great Ayton Animal Centre last summer after reportedly being beaten in her previous home on numerous occasions.

Now the longest-staying dog at the Yarm Lane centre, Betsy has watched more than 40 of her kennel mates find new homes.

Emma Cosby, behaviour welfare advisor at Great Ayton, said: "Despite numerous appeals, beautiful Betsy still hasn't had much luck finding a home.

"She’s our longest-staying dog by some distance and her story breaks our hearts."

Betsy has been described as a "bundle of joy" who "puts a smile on your face even on the darker days."

(Image: RSPCA)

Most read

Our flash sale is still on – 30% off an annual subscription. Get unlimited access to local news, enjoy our ad-free mobile and tablet app and read the replica of the paper on your device. Subscribe before it's too late!

However, previous rehoming appeals have fallen through because she’s been too playful for the older dogs of potential adopters.

Ms Cosby said: "Understandably, after her long stay here and background history she can find new experiences scary, but she is slowly but surely overcoming her fears and she’s made incredible progress since she’s been here.

"She’s starting to gain confidence and is now desperately in need of a supportive, loving home with a family who have the time to help her through some of her anxieties and continue her ongoing training."

(Image: RSPCA)

Betsy has had "sleepovers" at a member of staff’s house to help her get used to a home environment and has loved these, especially having the chance to curl up on a sofa which is one of her favourite pastimes.

Staff think the fact she’s a sighthound may be a reason why she has taken longer to find a home.

Betsy loves to play, gets on well with other dogs, and could be rehomed with another confident companion, prior to successful meets at the centre.