Money raised for seriously injured dog from Herstmonceux

Puddles, a two-year-old spaniel, was out with her owners Rhys Matthews and Brittany Mayes in the village on September 29 when the accident happened.

The couple, who are new to the village and expecting their first baby, were in the park with Puddles.

The two became separated as Brittany started to walk towards the village centre and Rhys continued to play with Puddles in the park.

Rhys said that as Puddles lost interest in the game, she chased after Brittany and unfortunately ran straight into oncoming traffic.

Puddles gained serious injuries, including a tear to her abdomen.

The couple said, “We were left traumatised.”

The Herstmonceux community came together and raised more than £900 through a raffle to help with Puddles’ vet bills.

Ellie Collins, the owner of The Village Pet Shop, decided something had to be done - she was the one to set up a raffle which saw businesses donate a total of 35 prizes, including hampers and Christmas gifts.

Ellie said, “I thought it would be nice to do something - everything raised helps.”

The fund raising progressed further - the crowd funding page is now at £2,610 through support from more than 140 people.

Paula Collins, the owner of The Little Bake Shop in the village, said, “Everyone rallied round, it’s been really nice to see the community spirit.”

Brittany said, “We are so grateful to our community for everyone’s help and that our dog survived such an ordeal.”

After being at the vets for quite some time, Puddles is now back home and on the mend.

Anyone wanting to donate can go to https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/puddlesdog?utm_term=Az8K68KBK