HUNDREDS of dog lovers have got behind a Brierley Hill family who are desperately trying to raise £2,000 to give their puppy life-changing surgery instead of putting him to sleep.

Spot, a 14-week-old Staffordshire bull terrier, has a deformed hip, which has affected his back legs and left him unable to walk properly.

His owner Maz Page said x-rays showed one of the pup's knee caps is on wrong side and his muscles are growing in the wrong places, leaving little support for his bones, which are not developing at the same speed as his others are.

Spot was one of 17 puppies born from Maz's dog Zena's first and only litter and out of the ten surviving dogs, he was the only one with a health problem.

Although a home had already been found for him, Maz and her husband Gee, of Leys Crescent, decided to keep him.

A vet told the family that although surgery was an option they should consider euthanasia, but Maz, who is mum to Shannon, aged 11 and 16-year-old Reece, refused as the playful pup was not in any obvious pain.

The couple estimate they have spent around £2,500 on Spot's treatment to date, with regular vet trips, hydrotherapy and physio.

But as the pup's back legs are deteriorating quickly, he needs an operation to either insert a pin, which could be adjusted as he grows, or amputate his right leg.

Either option would set the family back around £2,000, which Maz said they are struggling to find within the six-week deadline: "I can’t do it all on my own, I'm absolutely washed out. I’m trying to hold down four jobs to keep up with paying for everything, look after the kids, it's hard work.

"But Spot didn't ask to be brought into the world, he doesn't judge, he doesn't moan, he's happy, has a beautiful calm nature and has eyes that are always loving and affectionate.

"He's so cherished and battles on with his condition, how could I ever give all that up for the sake of money and effort? I can't and I won't."

In an attempt to boost funds, Maz has set up a Facebook page 'Supporting spot to walk forever' which has attracted more than 650 likes.

She has been overwhelmed by the reaction and has been selling keyrings, wristbands and T-shirts to Spot's supporters to help pull in the pounds.

A fundraising family disco will also take place on February 6 at Quarry Bank Labour Club from 7pm to 11pm.

Maz has planned a host of activities for the event including a raffle, children's entertainment and will set up a special booth where people can meet Spot.

She added: "I'm so grateful for any offer of help, every single penny counts and I refuse to give up on him. I owe him that much as he gives so much joy to us and the people that meet him."

Anyone who would like to make a donation towards Spot's surgery or offer raffle prizes for the event, should call Maz on 07815786808.

To follow Spot's progress, visit www.facebook.com/Supportspot.