ECHO readers have saved the life of an abandoned dog by donating hundreds of pounds for a vital operation.

Big-hearted readers have ensured life is going to be sweet for terrier Toffee, who was suffering from a dangerous and extremely painful leg injury.

Last week the Echo told how Toffee was living at the Acres Way Kennels, in Thundersley, after he was found wandering in Leigh.

Toffee was riddled with fleas and was unable to walk due to his condition.

The kennel appealed for help in raising money for an operation to restore the ligaments in his knee.

Kennel manager, Vicki Stoner, said she’s been bowled over by the interest in Toffee.

She said: “This has restored my faith in human beings. To say I am gobsmacked is an understatement.

“We had lots of people ringing up to offer help and also sending in cheques to pay for his operation.

“Toffee has now had his operation and although he’s had to have a paw amputated, as it just couldn’t be saved, he’s whizzing around.

“Toffee is no longer suffering in pain. We just can’t thank Echo readers enough. He will be able to be rehomed once he’s recovered.

“We had £880 donated from readers, including a massive £480 from staff at Southend Council.”

There’s been a double dose of good news for the kennels as Jake, a great dane who also featured in the article, has now found a home.

The four-year-old, was described as a “gentle giant” and had struck up a friendship with Toffee. But after featuring in the Echo, Jake’s life has also now changed for the better.

Mrs Stoner added: “Jake has found a new home on a farm in Wakering and is very happy. He has plenty of space to run around and he’s loving it. We had so many people offering him a home.

“We’re just chuffed to bits.