A FAMILY is having to part with their dog because its boisterous antics scare other pets in the house.

Janet Gowland and her husband, Robert, of Toronto, near Bishop Auckland, have made the heart-breaking decision to rehome Luka, a two-year-old German shepherd/akita cross.

Mrs Gowland said: "He is such a loving dog and very clean."

But Luka, a large and strong dog, does not realise his own strength, and one of the family cats has been driven out of the home because of him.

Mrs Gowland said: "He is a beautiful dog and very nice natured, not wilful or anything, but he is making the cats' life a misery.

"He jumps on them, wanting to play with them, but he does not realise how big he is.''

The couple are hoping to find Luka a home where there are either no other animals or a big dog of the same size.

They are also looking for someone who can give him a lot of attention, and exercise is also a priority.

Anyone who thinks they can offer Luka a good home should contact the Paul Wilson Veterinary Surgery on (01388) 602707.