AN INUNDATED dog rescue has thanked readers of this newspaper after thousands of pounds were donated to help tackle mounting vets bills.

Ardley Rescue Kennels, near Bicester, faced an influx of poorly pups over the winter and £5,000 vets bills.

But thanks to readers, every last penny was paid for by generosity after hearing about the charity's plight.

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Kennels owner Annabelle Pottle said: "We just can’t thank the Bicester Advertiser readers enough. The donation meant we could pay off our vets bills - the final bill actually came to £4,999.95.

"It is just amazing, we never, ever, thought we would raise that amount of money.

"At Christmas especially it just made everyone so much happier because we really struggled with the amount of dogs that needed care.

"We are used to dealing with a lot of dogs needing care but not that amount, it is heartbreaking."

Among the rescues was 'completely emaciated and flea-ridden' Oliver who was spotted by the public being thrown from a car.

But thanks to the donations and care of Ardley Rescue Oliver wasn't in for too long and after treatment was rehomed in the new year.

Ms Pottle said the response from the newspaper article was overwhelming and included one donation of £3,000 - which she admits brought her to tears.

Other businesses who donated included £600 from Rapid Engineering and £1,000 from Webmart.

The rescue owner added: "Whether large or small, all the donations count towards the amazing total, as well as the food, toys, treats and coats donated - these will last us three months."

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The charity rescue is now working to raise funds for more dogs that came in during the new year including one-year-old Shih-tzu Bertie was handed over just two days before his birthday on Christmas Eve.

The pup has severely bowed legs and is currently waiting for an operation to implement a 3D prosthetic to help him move more easily.

12-year-old Molly is also with the rescue currently and was found as a stray in Banbury, with a large tumour on her abdomen.

Also on the waiting list for surgery is one-year-old Hank the Rottweiler cross who came in on New Year's Day barely able to walk.

He needs both cruciate ligaments repairing which will be thousands on pounds due to his size.

If you would like to donate to the rescue see more details at gofundme.com/bertie-and-friends