A deaf Border Collie is searching for her forever home after being in the care of The Scottish SPCA for 534 days.

Six-year-old Aurora has been residing at the charity's Lanarkshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre since August 2022 following a life in unsuitable living conditions.

Widely characterised by her expressive nature, Aurora needs a patient and experienced owner who can communicate with her using hand signals and body language.

The team in Lanarkshire has been effectively using hand gestures to communicate with her.

Animal care assistant Lauren Brown said: "We give her a thumbs-up whenever she does something we like to show her she is a good girl and then she is rewarded with a treat."

Besides reward-based hand signals, staff members also resort to other means of communication, Lauren adds: "When out walking if we need to get her attention we tap her on the hindquarters.

"She is also very receptive to her handler smiling at her and reacting positively to her behaviour even if she can’t hear them."

Her gentleness is apparent when she's found snuggled up with her favourite soft teddies, according to Lauren.

However, Aurora's journey so far hasn't been devoid of challenges.

Her deafness can make her uncertain around new faces, especially other dogs, and she can occasionally be overwhelmed in busy environments.

Aurora is described as very affectionate and fun-loving.

She enjoys walks and staff cuddles but can sometimes overstep boundaries when meeting new dogs.

She added: "However, after time she does settle and walks alongside other dogs happily.

"It is however something that her new owners will need to work on with her when it comes to socialisation."

Lauren also hinted at the strong bond Aurora has developed over time with her handler at the centre, she added: "When she trusts you, she will love you forever and she gets excited when she sees people that she knows."

The new owner will need to commit to several meetings at the centre to allow Aurora to feel relaxed and comfortable.

Anyone interested in offering Aurora a home can apply via the Scottish SPCA website.