A DOG who was kept locked in a porch is looking for a fresh start after spending 10 months in kennels.

Big Patch is desperate to find a loving new home after such a rough start.

Three-year-old husky-cross Big Patch arrived at RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre, in Dorset, in January and has been waiting 10 months for a new home.

RSPCA behaviour advisor Hannah Hawkins said: “Poor Patch was signed over into our care when his owner died and the rest of the family was unable to take care of him.

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“Sadly he’d been kept locked in a porch without much food or exercise; he was underweight and covered in urine stains.

“We spent a lot of time getting to know him and helping him learn about the big wide world. 

Bournemouth Echo: Big Patch - RSPCABig Patch - RSPCA (Image: RSPCA)

“We were so thrilled when he found a new home over the summer but, after just a few hours, his owners returned him because he was too strong and boisterous for them. We were all gutted.”

Big Patch is described as a "lovely, clever dog who is very playful" and he needs owners who can give him lots of exercise and keep him occupied.

Hannah added: “Big Patch can be aloof when he first meets people but it doesn’t take long for him to warm up to you and then he soon leans in for a fuss. With his friends, he loves nothing more than a cuddle.

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“We’d like to find him an active owner who can keep up with him and ideally it’ll be someone with experience with large breeds who understand what it means to take them on.

“We think someone who is patient and will be able to work with him as he transitions into life in a home will be best. With good guidance, Patch will make the most wonderful companion - he just needs some time to adjust after such a tough start.

“We’d love to find someone local who can visit Big Patch and get to know him, and so we can provide support as he settles in.”