IT IS a case of mistaken identity for Pebbles the newborn lamb who thinks she is a dog.

Forget skipping in the green fields, the three-week old animal from Weardale Sanctuary in Stanhope is more at home curled up in front of the fire.

Owner Sally Rowley, who runs the sanctuary, said: "She lives in the house because her mother did not want her.

"She would rather play with our labrador, Major, or run up and down the stairs with our other dog, Blue. Wherever we go she is always close by.''

At night-time the lamb sleeps in the kitchen, and in the morning she greets the family with as much affection as any dog would.

Mrs Rowley said: "We are hoping for a playmate for her so she will eventually go out into the field. But for now she is happy with thinking she is a dog.''

The sanctuary is looking for donations of bric-a-brac to sell at a car boot sale.

The event at Stanhope Old Hall Hotel, in Stanhope, on Saturday, May 12, will raise money to help neighbouring farmers, who have been hard hit by the foot-and-mouth crisis.

Anyone who can help should contact Mrs Rowley on (01388) 526375.