AN appeal to fund urgent eye surgery for a rescue dog saw a £1,000 donation from a Forest couple who retired to Spain.

Sammy, who is a five-year-old Bichon Frise, is on the mend thanks to the community pulling together to fund a cataract operation costing £2,850.

Jan Borrett, of A1 Small Dog Rescue, rescued Sammy from a puppy farm last August and a trip to the vets confirmed he needed surgery.

Spokesperson for the Forest of Dean Dog Rescue and A1 Small Dog Rescue, Vicky Bagley said: “Both rescue groups hosted fundraisers and appealed to the public for funds after Sammy was told he needed surgery.

“We wish to express our gratitude for the overwhelming response to the Sammy fundraising appeal – including from a Forest couple who have retired in Spain and donated £1,000.

“The surgery has restored Sammy’s eyesight and he is now on the mend.

“It has been amazing to be part of such a combined community effort, with people from all over the Forest coming together to support our appeal.”

Helen Palmer, of the Forest of Dean Dog Rescue, added: “I will be adopting Sammy. He had a check-up recently and the vet is very pleased with his progress; however it is not clear at the moment whether he needs prescription eye-drops for the rest of his days.”

Vicky added: “Of course there are many other rescue dogs needing help, and so the fundraising efforts must continue. Many of these are now ready for loving homes, while others need ongoing support for as long as they remain in the groups’ care.”

To make a donation send a cheque payable to: Forest of Dean Dog Rescue, to Elmsleigh, Whitecroft Road, Bream GL15 6LY, or for further information visit Facebook page: FoD Dog Rescue Fundraising Group.