MEET Major - "a big handsome bundle of a dog" who needs to find a new family to call his own.

In the first of a regular series, the T&A is highlighting animals at local rescue centres who are up for adoption.

We'd also like to hear from our readers about your pets and why they are special to you. Maybe you have a rescue dog or cat (or hamster or rabbit...) or there's a story behind how they came into your life, or you have a guide dog trained to look after you or a loved one. Maybe you got a new pet in lockdown. We'd love to share photos of your pets and why they mean so much to you. See below for details of how to get in touch.

In the meantime, here are some four-legged friends who need forever homes. Major is an 11-year-old American Bulldog currently in foster care on Dogs Trust's Home from Home programme.

Says Dogs Trust Leeds: "Major needs a new family, through no fault of his own. He can be a little shy when you first meet him but comes round quickly if there are some tasty treats coming his way! He's a sweet lad who can become very playful. He enjoys walks too, but as he is strong, he'd benefit from an owner who has experience with larger breeds.

"He has a history of being house-trained but may need a little refresher as he settles into his new life. One thing is for sure - with Major around you'll never be lost for affection!

"Due to his size, Major would be best suited to a home with children over 14, if they're happy around larger dogs. He's fine around other dogs out and about but doesn't like to share his home, so he'll need to be the only pet. In his previous home he was never left alone so he will need someone around all the time. Major is currently on a healthy doggy diet as he needs to lose a little weight. He has a few medical issues which the centre team can discuss further." For more ab out Major visit dogstrust.org.uk/our-centres/leeds or call (0113) 281 4920.

* From Yorkshire Cat Rescue near Keighley there's Jemima and Eris. Jemima is 15 and needs a home without other animals. She's playful and enjoys attention. She has a heart murmur but YCR will help pay for any age-related medical costs.

Eris is four and needs to be re-homed ideally to a woman. She can be an indoor cat and live with children over 12. Described as "a special case", Eris can be a bit unpredictable and needs a patient owner and a quiet home. She would be happy to stay indoors. TCR can advise on how to look after her. Visit yorkshirecatrescue.org or call (01535) 647184.

* Tell us about your pet by going to or emailing emma.clayton@nqyne.co.uk