But John, ‘whose life changed forever’ when he fell through a fire escape and lost his leg in 2016, knew instantly that he wanted to adopt Popsey without even meeting her.
‘I feel like she needs protecting after what’s happened. Even though I have only got one leg I will battle for her. I will look after her and protect her and she will be able to save me.
You should never physically punish your pet. It brings the animal pain and fear, and it gains you nothing. It’s a lose-lose situation. Please don’t do it.
‘I am really low. She will pick me up and force me to get up to feed her and take her on a walk. Then when she is down I will massage her stump.’
John, from Portsmouth, worked in the army for 18 years before returning home to work as a labourer.He had his accident just three days into his new job and said he ‘hasn’t had much to smile about’ since having his leg amputated.
But the thought of taking in Popsey has given him a smile ‘bigger than the scar on my stump’
He said: ‘The little f**** who neglected her has given me a reason to get up every day.
‘This little pooch will be my life and soul and I can’t wait to meet her and for her to give me my life back. Independence will be our middle name.’ The Turkish shelter contacted the Portsmouth-based Pointer Rescue Service about Popsey on the very same day Liz met John. Liz, from Stafford, had fallen ill unexpectedly while visiting other volunteers and has set up a Gofundme page to bring Popsey to the UK.Medical and transportation bills will cost around £1000 but already people have donated £920 to the cause.
Carol Goodliffe, Secretary of the charity, said anything raised over that amount will go towards buying food and equipment for Popsey and other dogs. She told Metro.co.uk: ‘Fate played its hand the day we met John. Most people want the perfect dog. But having something that’s going to give you unconditional love and get you out and about it good for you mentally and physically.Limit treats to training rewards. This is an excellent way to make sure your dog views treats as special rather than expected. It’s also helpful in keeping your pet from becoming overweight or obese. Feed a species-appropriate diet, and partner with a holistic or integrative vet to maintain your pet’s well-being.
‘There’s no better therapy than a dog.’
You can donate to John’s Gofundme page here