Six-year-old bullbreed Eddie was rescued by RSPCA officers and police from unsuitable living conditions having been left behind in a property, in County Durham, when his owners moved out.

Eddie was taken in by the RSPCA’s Block Fen Animal Centre, in Fenland, earlier this summer, where staff soon realised he was deaf.

Kennel Supervisor Tiffany Fowler said: “We believe Eddie was born deaf and he 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 hoping to find him a loving new home with owners who can help teach him visual commands to further his training and adjust to a new life.

“Eddie’s deafness has actually benefitted him in kennels,” Tiffany added.

“When we arrive in the mornings and go to say ‘good morning’ to all of the dogs, who are all 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, and this can be tough for some dogs.

“We go into his kennel and give him a gentle stroke to wake him up and let him know that we’re there, so we don’t startle him and make him jump!”

Eddie has been enjoying spending time with the reception team at the animal centre, welcoming visitors to Block Fen (pictured).

Tiffany said: “Eddie is one of those dogs who has a gift for making people smile. He is incredibly friendly, affectionate and adores being around people.

“He greets people excitedly but calmly, and he’s very sociable. He’s a wonderfully welcoming face to everyone who walks through the door.”

Eddie is a clever dog who socialises well with other dogs and could live with children or another pet dog.

Ideally, he’d like a home with someone who is around for most of the day. He needs owners who can give him time and patience while he settles in.

Tiffany added: “Now - this Deaf Dog Awareness Week - 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.”

1. Eddie searches for a new home

Eddie at Block Fen. Photo: RSPCA Block Fen Animal Centre

2. Eddie searches for a new home

Eddie at Block Fen. Photo: RSPCA Block Fen Animal Centre

3. Eddie searches for a new home

Eddie at Block Fen. Photo: RSPCA Block Fen Animal Centre

4. Eddie searches for a new home

Eddie at Block Fen. Photo: RSPCA Block Fen Animal Centre