Readers of the Midweek Herald free sheet in Devon were so touched by the sad story of a dog in need of a hip replacement op that they sent in £1,000 as soon as the paper hit the streets.

The paper first published an article on Zest the rottweiler in October and caring readers soon got in touch after it was revealed her disabled owner could not afford to pay for expensive hip surgery.

Without the £3,000 treatment, Zest would slowly become crippled as arthritis in the ball joints of her hips got worse.

But readers of the free East Devon weekly paper proved themselves as true animal lovers and have already offered the owner £1,000 – and the total is rising steadily.

Another offer of help has come from a reader who can help ease Zest’s symptoms while she waits for the operation.

They have offered free hydrotherapy sessions at a pool especially for dogs with chronic arthritis and similar conditions.

Midweek Herald reporter Tim Prince said: “After the story was published people started phoning up and writing in so we suggested that the owner set up a special bank account for Zest because there were obviously a lot of readers who wanted to help.

“We have carried updates on her condition and hope it will not be too long before we reach the total needed.”

Do you have a story about the regional press? Ring 0116 227 3122/3121, or
e-mail [email protected]