A kind-hearted woman who takes in and cares for seriously ill dogs, is fundraising for her latest rescue dog's treatment.

Judith Herbert, of Egremont, says she gives sick dogs some quality of life before they cross the rainbow bridge.

She has recently rescued Lottie the Beagle, who has a raft of health problems, and was not given the care she needed by her previous owner.

The 10-year-old dog is 10kg overweight, "riddled" with osteoarthritis and has various lumps and bumps over her body, including a massive oral mass.

She also has a heart condition which she will need medication for.

Judith said: "I rescued her just over a week ago. She had so many problems it was unbelievable. I went and saw her and thought this dog really needs help."

After taking Lottie to Galemire Veterinary Hospital, Judith was faced with the mounting costs of her treatment.

The poorly pooch will need surgery to remove her lumps, but must lose weight before she can go under anaesthetic.

She has been put on a costly prescription diet to help her shed the pounds and also needs to be on an anti-inflammatory drug long term for her arthritis.

Judith has set up a fundraising page to help alleviate some of the costs of Lottie's care and is asking the public to help.

"It's a lot of money," she said. "This dog needs help. I just thought she deserves something.

"She was very poorly for the first five days from infections running through her body. She has picked up a bit with the antibiotics and is happy to be getting love and attention.

"There could be other things going on with Lottie like cancer. We don't know yet. We have got the full back up of Sophie, our vet."

Judith said vets were shocked at the state Lottie was in when she was brought into their care. Her body condition had been graded at eight, with nine being the worst possible.

She has affectionately named her new rescue 'Lottie Love Chops', and says she is enjoying walks on Braystones beach with her other beloved dogs.

Judith has previously rescued other dogs in need, including a French Bulldog called Tink, who had been used on a puppy farm for eight years.

"I look at it like these dogs get some quality of life before they go to the rainbow bridge. I have done my bit. That's how I look at it. Most rescues won't touch dogs that are dying.

"It's my duty to do that. I stay until they go to their place. It's hard but rewarding because they would have had nothing otherwise."

To donate towards Lottie's treatment, go to: www.gofundme.com/f/help-lottie-with-care-and-veterinary-costs