A Norwich-based animal charity is desperately seeking new homes for three dogs, saying the lack of interest in the trio could be down to people's preconceptions around their breed.

The RSPCA Norwich and Mid-Norfolk branch rehomes cats and dogs in the local area and the three dogs, Lady, Diesel and Dolly, have been in its care for some months now – with Lady being at the kennels based just outside of Norwich since the beginning of January.

Lady, Diesel and Dolly are all Staffordshire Bull Terriers or Staffy crosses and staff believe that it is their breed that is putting people off adopting them.

Claire Feek, animal care manager, said: 'We have had lots of dogs come and go since Lady came into our care, but no one wants to meet her.

'It is so sad that any of these three dogs have not had any interest as they would all make great companions to someone.'

She added: 'Staffies get a terrible reputation. People have a lot of misconceptions over the breed.'

Lady is a two to three-year-old Staffie and attended the charity's annual sponsored walk, The Mutt Strutt, back in June.

Fundraising manager Lydia Hall, who helped to organise the walk, said: 'She loved being out and about, meeting other dogs – she was just thrilled.

'I find it heartbreaking that Lady, and the other two dogs, haven't had anyone visit them. From how Lady was on the Strutt, I find it difficult to understand why she hasn't been rehomed.'

All three dogs were signed over to RSPCA inspectors because the previous owners felt that they were no longer able to care for them. All RSPCA Norwich and Mid-Norfolk dogs are assessed by a dog behaviourist with more than 20 years' experience.

The RSPCA Norwich and Mid-Norfolk is a self-financing and local charity.

For information on adopting an animal, log on to the website at www.rspcanorwich.org or contact The Paws Centre, in Barrack Street, on 01603 766001, open Tuesdays to Sundays, 11am-4pm.

Do you have an animal story for the Evening News? Contact reporter Kim Briscoe on 01603 772419 or email kim.briscoe@archant.co.uk.