HOW could they do it? The owners of this blind and deaf dog simply abandoned him in a Winchester street.

Patrick, the seven-year-old Border collie, is lucky to be alive after the ordeal.

After being alerted by a member of the public, who saw the confused and terrified dog wandering the streets, an animal rescue centre took him in and is paying the £997 vet bill to have a cataract removed.

With the prospect of his sight returning the dog's carers are appealing for someone to give the "cuddly" canine a new home.

Affectionate Rose Milne, rescue co-ordinator at Second Chance Animal Rescue, Southampton, said: "He really loves cuddles and is an affectionate little lad. But his problem is that he is blind and almost deaf. He can only hear loud noises although he doesn't know which direction they are coming in.

"Obviously he was really terrified out on the streets and didn't know where he was or what he was doing.

"I don't know how anybody could have this dog for eight years and allow him on the streets where he wouldn't know if he was going to eat or could walk into traffic.

"How could they do this to a dog like him? He's a super dog and really just needs someone better than he's had."

Patrick has been at the rescue centre for 12 days and is slightly overweight because he has not been getting enough exercise due to his disability. Rose added: "We are hoping this eye operation will partially solve his problem and make him easier to re-home.

"He just wants to be cuddled all the time so if there is anybody out there who doesn't mind giving him lots of cuddles then this is the dog for you."

A coffee morning and bring-and-buy sale is being held today at Rossella, Grange Drive, Otterbourne, from 10am onwards to help raise money for Patrick's operation.

If you think you can give Patrick a new home or would like to donate to his operation then you can contact Rose on 023 8055 9552.