AFTER being abandoned as a pup, life was looking down for Weasel the terrier.

He behaved like other puppies but didn't look like others - because due to a bizarre genetic defect he was born with no visible ears.

Experts said they had never seen a case like it before.

But yesterday saw a life-changing moment for the five-month-old dog, when specialist doctors at a Hampshire animal hospital revealed that he can in fact hear noises.

Animal hearing expert Kate McMorris, of Hythe's Seadown Veterinary Hospital, confirmed that Weasel has hearing in both ears - albeit not perfect.

"Our tests showed that he can hear louder noises such as his name being called," she said. "He will never have perfect hearing, but he will be able to lead a reasonably normal life."

Beverley Price, manager of Dogs Trust Bridgend, said: "We're absolutely delighted with the news.

"Weasel is a fantastic dog. He is happy, friendly and really healthy in every other way."

After being dumped at a police station in South Wales the Border terrier cross was moved to a local dog pound before Dogs Trust Bridgend took him in.

It soon became apparent that this was no ordinary dog - where a pair of floppy ears should have been, skin blocked the holes.

Staff at the Dog Trust feared he might be completely deaf, but experts were convinced he had the makings of a working ear inside his head.

The puppy will now see a hearing specialist who will consider giving the go-ahead to an operation to open up his ears.

A search for a new home for the puppy has been put on hold until a decision has been made whether to operate on him.

But the Dogs Trust hopes that when Weasel is given a clean bill of health they will be able to find a new owner for him.

It seems that life is looking up for the little pup after all.