A DOG lover is calling on more people to give three-legged canines a chance.

Before 2015, Dawn Andrewes, who is from Redlynch, had never had a three-legged dog and was frightened by the prospect when she found out her border collie puppy had to have its rear leg amputated.

She said: "We spotted the little pups foot was beyond repair and I expected the vet to opt for euthanasia but instead she recommended amputation of the rear leg.

"After consideration we decided we were responsible for this litter and he shouldn't be have to be put down if he stands a chance at a normal life."

And at four-days old Leo had his leg removed. At the time Dawn says she was "terrified" of what might happen.

"I actually didn't have much to worry about. Leo seemed to live up to his name and was a real fighter and amazed me everyday, even though it wasn't plain sailing with different hurdles as we went through each day and each week I can finally say we are over the worst now and Leo is living life to the full with us," said Dawn.

"This was a totally scary process with never having much contact with any three legged dog, never mind one from a very young age."

Dawn found support from the Tripawd community who she says were a "virtual hand on her shoulder" — there with advice and support.

She then came across a blog written by a rescue agency, Malaysian Dogs Deserve Better (MDDB) , who were looking for homes for some "tripawd" dogs.

"I thought well maybe there is room for another "tripawd" here but thought I am not even in the country so I am doubtful I would be considered to give a deserving pooch a new fresh start," she said.

"It's of course hard to predict the outcome when you don't know the dog except from a picture but we knew we could make it work."

Dawn now has been able to give homes to Brad and Leah who arrived in the UK on April 27 and have been settling into life with Dawn and Leo.

Brad lost his leg through a serious accident while Leah was born without a thigh bone so had to have her leg removed as it was shorter than the others.

"If only more people would consider adopting a tripawd - they are no different to a four-legged dog. They just need love, cuddles, and a safe home to keep them happy. After all it's the same for the four-legged dogs to," says Dawn.

"They [Brad and Leah] seem very happy here and love the attention. They have made friends with the other dogs and are living life to the full now."