A dog, who had previously never worn a collar or been groomed, is now a "prize-winning pooch," and reportedly doted on by his new family.

Two-year-old Nero was taken in by the RSPCA in January after being signed over by a previous owner who could no longer cope.

The team at the Leeds, Wakefield, and District Branch in West Yorkshire cared for him until he was adopted by Cheryl Kelly.

Ms Kelly had been thinking about getting a dog for some time when she saw Nero on the RSPCA's Find A Pet search.

She said: "I felt there was something missing from our home and I’d wanted a little dog to keep me company for some time but I’d had a bad hip which had affected my mobility so I didn’t think it was fair to take on a dog.

"After I had my hip replacement and could get out more I knew I needed a little best friend to come out with me.

"When I saw his little face online I instantly fell in love with him.

"I applied but didn’t think I stood a chance so when the team called and asked me to go and meet him I was over the moon.

"He covered me in licks as soon as we met and I knew he was the one for us."

Nero now lives in Lancashire with Ms Kelly, her partner, and her son.

Ms Kelly added: "Nero is doing really well - he’s got lots of doggy friends and loves to run around our garden playing with his ball.

"He loves going in the car and gets so excited to visit new places and meet other dogs.

"He’s had a little pamper day and we’ve even taken him to a few local dog shows where he’s won rosettes and medals!

"Recently he got second place in the best rescue class - although he’s always the winner in our eyes.

"He comes everywhere with me, even to Slimming World.

"He loves meeting everyone and always showers them in wags and licks."

The RSPCA is asking people to donate to its cause this Christmas at rspca.org.uk/jointherescue