Christmas can be a lonely and depressing time for many people, especially those who live on their own.

But a single person could be the saviour of a little dog that really wants to be loved -- and will give plenty of love in return.

Patch is three-and-a-half years old but has spent more than half his life in kennels. The Bedlington terrier cross has twice been returned to the RSPCA animal home at Altham because he bonds too deeply with one person in a household.

Now staff at the shelter hope a kind-hearted East Lancashire dog lover will prove to be third time lucky for Patch and welcome him into their home in time for Christmas. Animal home manager Jeanette Ainscough said Patch first came in as a nine-month-old pup after proving too boisterous for his elderly owner.

Later he went to live with a mother and 12-year-old child, but Patch was jealous of the youngster and did everything he could to keep them apart. So he was returned to the animal home.

A few weeks ago, after an appeal in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph's Animal Aid column, Patch found a home with a couple.

He bonded with the woman straight away and with behavioural treatment improved in leaps and bounds -- but when the man went away on a course the woman spoiled Patch, and after two days he was back to square one.

Jeanette said: "He has to go to a home where there is a person on their own, preferably someone with experience of dogs and who will not be leaving him on his own for long periods.

"He can be loving and loyal, and the woman who bonded with him has written a glowing report about how he enjoyed going for walks.

"He would be brilliant for anyone doing dog agility. I took him on a 10-mile sponsored walk and he got on really well with the other dogs. He is a real livewire and would be an ideal companion."

The RSPCA will help out with behavioural tips and the new owner will need to be strict with Patch from the word go, but he will repay their commitment with loyalty and affection.

Anyone who thinks they are the ideal owner for Patch can contact the RSPCA on 01254 231118.