Cherished canines across Sussex can look forward to being spoilt rotten this Christmas. But a few forgotten fellows will be left out in the cold.

If these poor pets could have a Christmas wish, it would just be for a good home and a loving hug.

A number of dogs are being looked after by the NCDL at Shoreham.

Some were strays brought in from pacing the streets. Some were handed in when their owners were unable to cope. Others, including a litter of six cross-breed pups, were simply abandoned.

Nicole McCallum, of the NCDL said the centre was keen to find homes for the unwanted pooches but she said: "We are now not rehoming any dogs until after Christmas.

"This is because Christmas time in most households is such a disruptive time, which is not good when you are trying to settle in a new dog.

"We will be rehoming as normal at weekends from the first weekend in January."

Dogs looking for homes include:

Gareth Gates, a ten-month-old white and tan, smooth-coated, male cross breed. He is very intelligent and needs someone patient to spend the time training him.

Five-month-old lurcher puppy King Charles, who was brought to the centre because his owner could not cope with his boisterous, fun-loving nature.

John-Paul, an eight-year-old, black and white Jack Russell terrier who has been at the centre for a year. He needs a knowledgeable terrier owner who will enjoy his lively nature.

Taco, a black and tan cross-breed aged two-and-a-half years. A former stray, Taco's new owners will need to have the time to bring him out of himself.

German Shepherd cross Mona, who is 17 months old and has been at the centre for four of them. She would be best-suited in a family with another well-adjusted dog as she has noise phobias.

BB, or Black Blob, is a Petterdale cross who has only been at the centre for a week. The three-year-old is very lively and would really benefit from being away from the kennels.

Anyone wanting to learn more about the NCDL Shoreham should call the centre on 01273 452576.