A CHARITY has been set up in the memory of a rescue dog, which aims to support other less fortunate canines.

Holly, a black Labrador, had a poor start in life when she was a victim of neglect in her early years, and this left her with serious health problems.

Five years ago, she was taken on by Lesley Winton, an animal-loving former charity worker from Edinburgh. Lesley was at her lowest ebb, but the arrival of Holly was a turning point in both their lives. Holly regained her trust in humans, and her health and happiness improved greatly. In turn, Lesley was able to build her own confidence and her desire to help others.

Lesley and Holly became inseparable companions, but sadly, Lesley was left devastated when Holly passed away in May 2013. In Holly's memory, she set up a not-for-profit organisation called Holly's Hugs, dedicated to raising funds for elderly and special needs dogs, and those working in war zones or with the UK armed forces.

Lesley's work has been highly valued, as reflected in letters of gratitude she received. One letter from a veterinary technician at Camp Bastion in Afghanistan said:

"It is a wonderful thing you are doing for our dogs and for Holly's memory and it is gratefully appreciated by dogs and soldiers alike here".

Lesley has also written a book called Holly the Mahogany Girl that tells the story of Holly and Lesley's life together and the difficulties that pet owners can face when the devestation of loss is not taken seriously.

Lesley said: “It brings me great comfort that her story and memory live on through the book and through the work of Holly's Hugs, allowing us to help bring a little joy and happiness into the lives of special needs dogs and brave dogs in war zones."

To read more about the work of Holly's Hugs, visit www.hollyshugs.org or follow the charity on Facebook.

Photo credit: Phil Wilkinson