A PUPPY rescued by a Chester animal charity has had lifesaving surgery after Cheshire Police raised the final amount needed to pay for the operation.

On the first Friday of every month staff at Cheshire Police HQ in Winsford dress down and donate to a charity.

On February 3, the chosen charity was Ark Angels Animal Rescue, which is based at Green Lane Veterinary Centre.

The extra cash boost meant Poppy, a seven-month-old Bichon Frise rescued from a puppy farm, was able to have an operation on a hole in her heart with the rest of the money being raised through social media by the charity.

Sergeant Andy Burrage, who is a trustee to the charity, said: “Poppy’s prognosis was poor with only an expensive operation giving any hope of survival.

“The donation from staff was very timely and was used towards Poppy’s lifesaving heart surgery, which was performed last week by a specialist vet. I’m pleased to say she’s doing really well.”

The rescue centre relies solely on the kind generosity of its supporters, including a number of Cheshire Police staff and officers. No one gets a salary and no expenses are claimed, which means every penny goes towards animals in need.

The charity uses foster homes rather than kennels and looks after all kinds of animals, including cats, dogs, guinea pigs and horses.

Sgt Burrage from Cheshire Police’s dog unit added: “Poppy is being looked after by Ark Angels and it will be a number of weeks before she can be rehomed.

“However, we have a number of animals due for rehoming and one special dog springs to mind, Calvin, a German Spitz Pomeranian cross who came to us following a relationship breakdown.

“He’s an amazing, friendly dog eager for a new forever home. If you want to know more, or donate, go to our Facebook page to enquire.”

For more information go to: facebook.com/ArkAngelsRescue/.