This lively young pup is need of a helping hand and a loving new home before he undergoes an operation on his leg.

Staff at the Dogs Trust in Snetterton are searching for an extra-special home for the 10-month-old youngster, called Axel, who needs somewhere to put his paws up and bed down before the surgery.

Although the centre does not normally issue appeals during the festive season, to prevent dogs being given as presents, staff broke with tradition in this case.

The puppy, whose breed is unclear, arrived as a stray at the end of November with the injury to its front leg. It is not known how it was sustained, but the operation will make sure the limb grows properly.

Rehoming centre manager, Diane McLelland-Taylor, said the Dogs Trust would cover the cost, but added: 'We're looking for someone who can offer Axel a secure home, giving him space to settle in and relax before he has an operation.

'Axel is an exceptional young man – he'll steal your heart in a second and we're desperate for him to find a home that he can call his own.

'It's unusual for us to be putting out an appeal at this time because we put a hold on rehoming during the Christmas period to discourage people from giving dogs as presents.

'We're still open for people to come and visit and reserve a dog, but ask people to wait until the new year to take a dog home.'

She added that Axel, who she called a 'cuddle-monster', laps up attention and would need some direction and reward-based training but was clever and eager to learn.

'He's a happy chap who loves life, other dogs and people,' she said. 'He's a smart boy and eager to learn so it won't take him long to perfect his 'petiquette'.'

The slogan A Dog is for Life and Not Just for Christmas was the brainchild of Dogs Trust chief executive Clarissa Baldwin and the centre at Snetterton has put a hold on rehoming dogs until tomorrow.

To find our more about the dogs, or to offer a home to Axel call the centre on 01953 498 377 or visit him at the centre on North End Road, Snetterton.

For more information visit the website at www.dogstrust.org.uk.