FERNE Animal Sanctuary has rescued a healthy dog who was just hours away from facing a deadly trip to the vets.

The dog, a Shar Pei pup named Jessi, from Cornwall, was set to be euthanised after her owner died and no alternative care could be found.

However, Paws2Freedom, a dog rescue charity, made a last-ditch attempt to save Jessi – who is eight years old – by putting out a plea on social media and contacting various animal rehoming charities.

But, with local animal shelters and charities being overrun and many being at capacity, their desperate attempt to save Jessi appeared unlikely to work.

But thankfully, with just hours to go before the dreaded appointment, Ferne Animal Sanctuary confirmed that they would be able to take her in, providing Jessi with a life-saving chance of being rehomed by a new loving family.

A Ferne spokesperson said: "Jessie is a healthy, happy pup, with a whole love of love to give and life in her.

"Ferne Animal Sanctuary are delighted to be able to save Jessie from her life being cut short."

Ferne is based in Wambrook, near Chard, and is Somerset’s leading rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming charity. It has been helping animals since 1939.

Jessi is happy and currently being cared for by the charity while they find an appropriate home for her.

More information about Jessi and the other animals waiting to be rehomed at Ferne Animal Sanctuary can be found on their website: ferneanimalsanctuary.org.