Budget Vets is looking for a permanent home for a stray raccoon rescued by a caring local couple.

The male raccoon, nicknamed Cyril, has been in the care of Newport-based Budget Vets since being brought in by his rescuers on 20th January.

Used to entertain at children's birthday parties, the raccoon is native to Canada and it is illegal to release them into the wild in the UK.

Budget Vets is now in discussions with zoos to provide a new home for the raccoon, where he can exhibit his natural instincts and live out the remainder of his life.

Rhiannon Matthews, administrator, said: “After being taken from a person using him for entertainment, City Wildlife recommended to the rescuers that Cyril was bought to our Newport branch. He is now being cared for in our 24-hour kennel facility and has been castrated by one of our veterinary surgeons – preferable for raccoon's prior to 12 months of age.

“This is not a permanent solution for Cyril, though. He needs space to exercise, a certain diet and specialist care.”

Cyril's progress can be followed at www.facebook.com/BudgetVetsLtd

Contact Budget Vets at 01633 855 825 with any information.