SPOTTED shivering, limping and all alone, this adorable six-month puppy was abandonded days before Christmas in desperate need of help.

The young Staffordshire bull terrier was taken to The Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria, London and rushed into surgery.

An old leg wound had healed in the wrong place, causing the pup constant pain and X-rays showed the damage was irreversible.

The leg had to be amputated to save her from a lifetime of pain.

Now a couple of days later the sprightly youngster, named Lottie by staff, is recovering well and happily bouncing around her kennel on her remaining three legs.

She is one of 25 dogs and 11 cats that will have been cared for by staff over Christmas at the Blue Cross adoption centre in Kimpton, all looking for new homes in the new year.

Blue Cross nurse Jessica Camilleri said: “At only six months old, Lottie has had a rough start in life but she’s the happiest little puppy you’ll ever meet.

“Despite being abandoned and losing her leg, she absolutely loves people and all the nurses instantly fell in love with her.”

Over the Christmas period Lottie will be enjoying long walks in the countryside to build up strength in her remaining three legs and use up some of her boundless energy.

But staff are keen to hear from anyone who may be able to offer her a good home in the new year.

Deputy centre manager Emma Pannell said: “Poor Lottie will be spending her first Christmas in kennels but we’ll make it as enjoyable as possible and take her on a nice long walk on Christmas morning, along with the other homeless dogs at the centre.

“But the best Christmas present Lottie could hope for is a permanent home in the new year. She has so much love to give and deserves a second chance in life, she’ll be a cracking little dog.”

Lottie is looking for owners who will understand her physical limitations and give her lots of guidance and training to ensure she develops into a well behaved dog.

She is active and playful and would like lots of walks and games to keep her entertained.

If you can offer a good home to Lottie in the new year call 01438 832 232 or visit the centre at Kimpton Bottom (please call ahead for opening hours).

The charity does not rehome animals between December 20 and January 4 to prevent them being given as Christmas presents but potential owners are welcome to visit and start the rehoming process.