An animal charity is "overwhelmed" after the public raised a record-breaking amount of money to help save an abandoned Bully puppy.
Ten-month-old Rex was handed into Hertfordshire's RATS Animal Rescue last week and quickly collapsed upon arrival, before being rushed to animal hospital.
Suspected bite marks led the charity to believe he had been used for baiting or fighting, while his ears had also been illegally cropped.
Rex was also suffering from a bloated stomach, with chronic vomiting revealing pieces of plastic and string, which the starving puppy had been eating in a bid to survive.
To help cover some of the atronomical cost of Rex's treatment, RATS launched a fundraiser with the aim to raise £5,000, but the immense support and generosity of both the Hertfordshire and UK-wide public, has seen the figure rise to more than £13,000.
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Rex has slowly regained his strength and is now able to eat and drink unaided, while the adorable puppy has even started to wag his tail again.
"It is overwhelming to see the outpouring of support and donations we have received from people across the nation in their bid to help our cause - particularly at a time where the cost-of-living crisis is having a major impact on us all," said Jenna Jones, head of marketing at RATS.
"Because of the kindness of others our JustGiving page has now reached a record-breaking amount in donations, and we are hoping this will keep growing.
"When Rex first arrived, the state he was in was truly shocking - he resembled an emaciated bag of bones and seemed to have completely shut down and given up on life.
"Although we are a small charity run entirely by volunteers, our team remains steadfastly committed to ensuring Rex has the very best care and support to overcome this terrible ordeal, and we will do everything we can to pursue justice for him."
As he has recovered, Rex has revealed a gentle and sweet-natured disposition.
He will remain in the care of the hospital until he is completely recovered, and then he will be rehomed into a suitable, loving and secure home.
To donate to Rex, visit www.justgiving.com/page/rexfundraiser.
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