APPLICATIONS have flooded in to give a new home to a dog saved by the public from a life in pain.

British bulldog Winston underwent leg surgery for a painful knee condition after it was spotted while he was being cared for at Stubbington Ark in Fareham.

Now, due to his popularity, staff have been holding an audition process.

Steve Baxter, operations manager at the Ark, said: “Applicants are being judged on what would be the best home for Winston matched on his profile of assessment and health issues.”

Winston’s new owners must have breed experience and he must be the only dog in the household.

Winston was diagnosed with cruciate ligament damage of the knee in both legs and a vet offered to do the surgery at a reduced cost of £1,000.

Donations raised the necessary funds in just two weeks.

Applications to adopt Winston have closed.