A FUND has launched to pay for an urgent eye operation for a 15-month-old dog who was rescued as an emaciated stray.

Pauline Rose, from Oakridge, Basingstoke, helped nurse Armani back to health after he was rescued by Dobermann Rescue UK and Europe (DRUE) in 2022.

He was rehomed with a couple from Sussex but has since been diagnosed with cataracts – a hereditary condition which has limited him to around 90 per cent of sight loss.

Read more: 'It feels like I'm losing everything' - Basingstoke mum and daughter join Girlguiding protest 

Pauline, who works for the charity, is now desperately trying to raise the £5,000 needed to pay for the operation to save his sight.

The 55-year-old said: “His owners have had a consultation which was carried out by an eye specialist, and it has been recommended that surgery is carried out before a total loss of sight occurs.

During the consultation they also found that one of his eyes currently still has a nerve attached. This would normally have been left behind at birth.

“At present, this does not stop him from his general day-to-day routines but if not actioned soon it will limit him severely.”

See also: South East Water asked Basingstoke customers to 'reduce water' at peak times

Pauline set up a Go Fund Me to raise the money needed for the operation, which has already generated more than £1,600 within a few days of it launching.

Pauline said his new owners feel worried about the cost of the operation but determined to provide their new pet with the best care.

She said: “With their hearts heavy but hopeful, they reached out to DRUE,” adding: “Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference in the quest to restore Armani’s sight. As news of Armani’s plight is spreading, we are finding people from all walks of life have come forward to support him.”

Pauline said she is “overwhelmed” by the donations that have already been made, adding: “Let’s hope Armani’s story becomes and inspiration, a testament to the power of love, compassion and community.”

To donate click here.