After years of bullying and fighting for food, a severely neglected Saint Bernard dog has been left with ears each weighing 400g - the same as a tin of beans.

But things are looking up for Boris, who has successfully had one of them amputated and has kept his ability to hear.

The canine was taken in by Cinque Ports Rescue in Meryl Gardens, Deal, last month, as part of a welfare case of multiple Saint Bernards needing urgent assistance.

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Having been left in a garden with other dogs for up to eight years, he weighed less than half he should and had heavily thickened and scarred ears.

Cinque Ports Rescue founder Eileen Mellis described them as “a dead weight hanging from his head”.

But now, having put on enough weight, the big softy has been taken to Lakeview Vets in Union Road, Deal, for surgery to remove his solid and senseless features.

VIDEO: Boris has had one of his ears amputated.

Vet Lukas Rybczynski carried out a two-and-a-half-hour operation, saving Boris’ ear canal and creating a small flap of skin to protect it so he can continue to hear.

Mrs Mellis said: “Because the blood vessels were so damaged in his ears, the surgery took longer than expected and for his well-being, so that he wasn't under anaesthetic for too long, the vet decided to only do the one, as well as a castration.

“It was the better ear of the two and weighed nearly 400g, the same as a tin of beans! His next ear will be heavier.”

She added: "We are so grateful to the veterinary team at Lakeview, particularly Lukas who has been wonderful with Boris. It was a long and complicated surgery, but Lukas still found time to sit with him in his kennel as he came round, to keep him calm.

“Boris adores Lukas. He practically drags us through the door for his follow up appointments.’’

Boris returned for his check-up on Monday and the vets were very pleased with his progress. He will have his other ear taken off in four weeks time.

Mrs Mellis said: “He’s just so much happier just with the one off. He can now sleep more comfortably and lie down of his side.”

Before surgery on Thursday, Boris was forced to rest on his front, on his chin.

Mrs Mellis said: “It was impossible for him to lie on his side due to the rigidity of his ears. Any injury to them could cause a massive bleed due to his damaged and dilated blood vessels.”

The operations and care will cost four figures but Cinque Ports Rescue has been astounded to receive donations and good wishes from as far as New Zealand and Australia.

Mrs Mellis said: “We would like to extend our thanks for all the good wishes and donations that we have received. It is very touching to know Boris’ story has reached the opposite side of the world.”

Mrs Mellis and her team hope Boris will be ready for re-homing in May. In the mean time, he is enjoying regular walks among the daffodils and some well-deserved affection.

“He’s so affectionate. He would rather have a kiss than a treat,” Mrs Mellis said.

Seven-year-old Petal, who was rescued at the same times as Boris, is now ready to find a new home.

If you’re interested in Petal, visit www.cinqueportsrescue.org.uk or call 07721 015278.

Donations to support the rescue centre's work can be made here.