A deaf rescue dog who is learning sign language is searching for a loving new home after being abandoned in County Durham.
Six-year-old bull-breed Eddie was rescued by RSPCA officers and police after his owners left him behind when they moved out.
He was taken to the RSPCA's Block Fen Animal Centre in Cambridgeshire, where staff soon realised he was deaf.
Staff believe the friendly dog has a bright future and could quickly learn visual commands.
Kennel supervisor Tiffany Fowler said: “We believe Eddie was born deaf and copes very well without his hearing.
“In fact, we often forget that he’s deaf.
"We all chat away to him and if he’s looking at us he’ll wag his tail and get excited.
"It’s like he can lip-read and knows we’re speaking to him.
“He’ll sit if you hold a treat up above his head so we think he’ll pick up sign language well and enjoy training.”
The team is now looking for owners who can continue Eddie's training and help him build his understanding of hand signals as he settles into a new life.
Despite his hearing loss, staff say Eddie is a happy, sociable dog who loves people and gets on well with other dogs.
Tiffany said his deafness has even given him an advantage in kennels, where many dogs can become overwhelmed by constant noise.
She said: “When we arrive in the morning to greet the dogs, who are barking and wagging their tails at their doors, Eddie is usually fast asleep, snoring in his bed."
“He doesn’t get stressed by the noise and the other dogs, which can be tough for some dogs.”
Eddie is a favourite with staff and visitors and often spends time welcoming people with the reception team.
Tiffany added: “Eddie has a gift for making people smile. He is incredibly friendly, affectionate and adores being around people.
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“He greets people excitedly but calmly, and he’s very sociable. He’s a wonderfully welcoming face for everyone who walks through the door.”
The RSPCA says Eddie could live with children or another dog and needs a home where someone is around most of the day to help him settle and keep learning.
During Deaf Dog Awareness Week, Tiffany said: “Now all he needs is someone to see him for who he is: a wonderful, friendly boy with so much love to give who deserves a family who will never leave him behind.”