WILLOW the puppy has had a bad start to life but now dog rescuers have come to her aid.

The seven-week-old lurcher suffers from a malformed knee, which needs an operation.

Swindon-based Strictly Strays Medical and Rehoming Fund, which provides medical help for stray dogs, has launched an appeal for £330 to help Willow walk normally.

Her mother Lucy was found by Cotswold District Council two months ago and was taken to Strictly Strays for rehoming. But on arrival, she gave birth to nine pups. Seven of these have been rehomed.

Jessie Bascombe, rehoming co-ordinator said: "Willow is a lovely dog and deserves a good standard of life. Unfortunately without the operation her quality of life will go down."

Although not a life-threatening problem, a fixated patella can seriously affect the way a dog walks.

Jessie said: "Vets are concerned that the operation needs to happen as soon as possible."

Angie Newman, president of Strictly Strays, said: "Willow is our top priority at the moment. The Drove veterinary hospital is being very supportive. We just need people's help to get Willow walking properly."

The fund, which is working towards charity status, is always looking for volunteers. To help Willow or get involved call Angie on 07941 722738 or visit http://strictlystrays.org.uk