A fundraiser has been launched to help “hero” blood donor dog Jasper in his own hour of need.
The short-haired German pointer has himself helped save three dogs but now needs help from humans to save his own.
The nine-year-old has ruptured his cruciate ligament and needs to go to Aberdeen Vet Referrals for essential treatment, which will cost near to £3,000.
Owner Louise Yule, who runs Halfpenny Farm Animal Sanctuary near Kintore, said: “Jasper was two when he came to us. He was going to be put to sleep.
“He’s been with us for eight years since and given blood five times. In three instances his help has saved the dog’s life.”
Jasper was first called upon in 2015 when 10-month-old collie Tess ate a rat contaminated with warfarin – a poison that causes internal bleeding.
Tess was hours away from death and required an urgent blood transfusion but the only pet blood bank miles away in Leicestershire and there was too little time to get the blood to Aberdeenshire.
Staff at Donview Veterinary Surgery in Inverurie called upon their receptionist, Mrs Yule, and her partner Mike, for advice on any dogs she knew that could help.
Thanks to a blood donation from Jasper, Tess was nursed back to full health.
Jasper went on to save two other dogs and donated blood two further times – though unfortunately it was too late for the recipients in question.
Now, Mrs Yule hopes funds can be raised to help with his own treatment for cruciate ligament damage.
Dogs with the injury develop osteoarthritis, which can result in permanent lameness and stiffness.
She said: “Cruciate ligament damage is a big problem for footballers, but very different for dogs.
“It’s degenerative and develops over time. We were just walking one day in the paddock when I heard a yelp.
“If people would be kind enough to donate it would be amazing. It is a big bill and would save us taking money away from the other animals at the sanctuary.
“There’s no real other option for Jasper. He really does need this operation.”
To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/cruciate-operation-for-jasper.
