A LOVEABLE Lab is lucky to be alive after being struck by a lorry on a busy bypass.

The poor pooch was left with a shattered left back leg which has had to be amputated after vets unsuccessfully tried to pin it together.

The black Labrador-cross with no name was taken to Leigh and district branch of Petsearch UK after the accident on Atherleigh Way and is now in the temporary care of 17-year-old trainee veterinary nurse Niki Woods.

Niki, who lives at Lowton, said: "After the operation he didn't take to the cages very well at the Petsearch centre as he was confused and didn't understand what was going on. So I'm looking after him for a while until he finds a new home."

Niki says that the dog is un-fazed by only having three legs.

"He is completely unbothered by it, he can still jump up and is active. He is a big softy and will do anything for you."

Niki works at the Leigh and district branch of Petsearch UK which is urging animal lovers to join them in a sponsored walk at Pennington Country Park on June 23 to help abandoned animals.

Petsearch UK relies on fund-raising to pay for the animals upkeep and veterinary care.

Margaret Daniels is a 'foster mum' for 'Petsearch' who is looking after 'Joey', a tanned coloured whippet cross, approximately 12 months old. Margaret says that Joey is good with children and other dogs and is looking for someone to adopt him.

She said: "It is so rewarding to see a dog rehomed knowing you have helped in that process. I thoroughly enjoy it."

Petsearch wants more volunteers to provide foster homes for these animals, and all they need is an enclosed area and adequate shelter.

If you would like to re-home an unwanted animal or get a sponsorship form call 01942 714015 for dogs, 01942 873019 for cats, and 01942 882993 for rabbits.