Tara the dog did not have the best start in life.

She was found on the streets of Greece with a broken back which rendered her back legs useless.

The poor mutt was only able to move around by dragging her legs behind her.

Living stray, at some point in her short life something or someone had broken her spine.

Her life took a turn for the better when she was brought to the UK by Greek Rescue and given the love, care and attention she desperately needed.

She has won the pet lottery with her owner Jacqui Fry who is the founder and owner of Moredge Canine Hydrotherapy.

This means Jacqui is able to give her the regular hydrotherapy treatment she needs to help with her long road to recovery.

Jacqui, 48, from Eastwood, says: “I already had three dogs and a cat before I met Tara and I thought that was more than enough! But when I saw her I fell in love with her and so did my husband.

“She has been through a lot and has to wear nappies as the damage has affected her toilet habits. But she is still a happy little dog with a lovely temperament.”

Jacqui paid for Tara to be spayed and for X-rays which showed her hips and knees are OK.

However, she has compression on her spinal cord and it is considered operable but it will cost between £3,000 and £4,000.

Jacqui is trying to raise the money for the operation.

“It is a sad story but with people’s help we might everyone who meets her wants and wishes for,” she says.

“She will need surgery in a hope to repair the damage to her back and it’s going to be a long road to recovery after this but hopefully she will make a good recovery.”

Hydrotherapy is an important part of Tara’s recovery and it can be an effective treatment for many dogs.

Jacqui, who has been a canine hydro therapist for 15 years, says: “Tara was originally with a foster carer but they couldn’t give her the hydrotherapy that she needed. Luckily I am able to give her all the treatment she needs.

“Canine hydrotherapy can make a huge difference for dogs with spinal problems and for those who have had strokes or are overweight.

They love getting in the water and we have seen great improvements and we have got dogs walking again.”

There will be a quiz night and raffle at the Westcliff Hotel, on July 24, at 7pm to raise £4,000 for an operation for Tara’s spine operation.

Tickets cost £5. Visit www.helptarawalk.co.uk or www.thesmalldogbigstory.co.