An elderly rescue dog can now enjoy her twilight years after the public gave generously to an appeal to help pay for much-needed treatment.

Judith Herbert, of Egremont, rescued Lottie the beagle, who has a raft of health problems, in September.

Over £1,000 was donated to a fundraising page set up by Judith’s friend, Gordon Bennett, to help alleviate some of the costs of Lottie’s care.

When Judith rescued the 10-year-old dog from her previous owner, she was in a terrible state.

She was 10kg overweight, “riddled” with osteoarthritis and had various lumps and bumps over her body, including a massive oral mass.

Lottie has also been diagnosed with life-limiting kidney disease and heart disease.

The money raised has been used to pay for vital surgery to remove the oral mass and a lump from her side. She has also been put on a prescription diet for her kidney disease to help reduce symptoms and improve her quality of life.

Judith said her beloved pet, known affectionately as ‘Lottie Love Chops’ is doing “brilliantly” and is enjoying walks on the beach.

“She’s doing absolutely fine at the moment. We had a nice quiet Christmas.

“It’s just day by day, that’s how I look at life. On a senior dog there’s only so much they will do. We have got a bigger outlook on life.

“She’s still got kidney and heart problems but that’s an ongoing thing until her body says it’s starting to fail now. She can’t have anymore operations.”

Lottie now has monthly check-ups with the vet.

“She’s lost 4kg. I’m not pushing her because she’s an elderly dog. You can’t shift the weight like you used to. She can’t do road walking - it’s too heavy on her joints.

“She’s doing alright - that’s what I like to see. She’s got this quality time. This dog has had nothing in her life.”

Judith has rescued numerous dogs over the years, with many of them being seriously or terminally ill.

She says she wants to give sick dogs some quality of life before they cross the rainbow bridge.

“I look at it like these dogs get some quality of life before they go. I have done my bit. That’s how I look at it. Most rescues won’t touch dogs that are dying.

“It’s my duty to do that. I stay until they go to their place. It’s hard but rewarding because they would have had nothing otherwise.”