A STAFFORDSHIRE bull terrier is looking for a foster home.

The dog was found in undergrowth next to Stockton's Durham Road.

It is thought to be a few months old, is extremely thin and suffering from a badly infected skin allergy.

Michelle Johnson, animal welfare officer at Stockton Borough Council, said: "The dog obviously has an owner as it is wearing a distinctive black and nylon collar with white dog paw prints on it.

"It is crucial we find out where the dog originated from, we would be grateful to anyone who knows anything about this dog to call us as soon as possible.

"It took us a while to coax him out the bushes and he was extremely nervous and frightened. However, he is now starting to come out of his shell and is a totally different dog."

Anyone who knows anything about the dog, or who would like to offer a temporary foster home, is asked to contact Ms Johnson on (01642) 391126.