A dog who stayed by the side of her dead owner for four days before she was found is looking for a new home.

Marnie, who is thought to be 11-years-old, was taken in by charity Futures for Dogs in Sandwich about two weeks ago.

Volunteer Mandy Samuel said: “It is heartbreaking to see how she is so loving and desperate for cuddles and knowing the stress she must have gone through prior to being found.

“We then had to stress her more by taking her to the vets for sedation to remove green gunk from her ears.

“The swelling and infection was so bad that it was impossible to even see what was causing it. She is now on antibiotic drops, steroids and pain relief.”

Marnie, who had a knee operation three years ago and also has some arthritis, has now settled in a foster home but she is not really suited to a multi-dog home so the centre is now trying to find her one of her own.

Mrs Samuel added: “We know this may be a challenge as she is an older girl and potential owners might be put off because they will have to continue with her ear care and, when ready, take her for her dental check. But all the costs for this will be paid for by the rescue.”

The centre describes Marnie as a “loving little lady” who enjoys cuddles on the sofa, short fun walks and playing with her soft toys. She would make an ideal friend for any older family.

For more information call 07951 769118 or email.

Payments to help towards the cost of Marnie’s treatments can be made by paypal via futuresfordogs@aol.com or Lloyds Futures for Dogs, sort code 30934 account no 03127768.