Blind King Charles Spaniel Ellie has her own guide dog – her best pal Leo the German Shepherd.

Ellie, who is only a few months old, has cataracts and only see shadows.

But she's made a big friend in Leo, who has taken to guiding her around and making sure other dogs don't get too close for comfort.

Owner Julie Lander said: “I take them for walks in the park and Leo guides Ellie around. He is so protective and herds the more boisterous dogs away from her."

Julie, of Bamford Street, Royton, Oldham, is now trying to raise £2,500 for an operation to help Ellie see.

Ellie was one of a litter of five puppies rescued by RSPCA inspectors.

Julie, who is a volunteer at the RSPCA's Rochdale branch, said: "As well as having cataracts, Ellie's eye muscles haven't developed as they should have as she'd been kept in the dark. The puppies had no light or heating.

"I felt so sorry for her when she arrived here and knew she'd need a special home.

"But I also knew she would be all right with Leo, as he just loves little dogs and they took to one another straight away.

Jean Spencer, manager of the Rochdale RSPCA shelter said: "Ellie has cataracts is only aware of shadows.

"But Leo has become her eyes. It's touching to watch them together - she follows him around and snuggles up to him.

"Ellie needs an operation but we need to raise the money and she needs to get a little bit bigger."

To donate call the animal shelter on 01706-861897.

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