A teenager’s fundraising campaign to save her dog’s life has reached almost £3,000 in just five days.

Lucy Allen has had cocker spaniel Benji since he was a puppy and says he has saved her life during her battles with mental health issues.

The 19-year-old is now fighting to save him after he was diagnosed with a tumour.

The Lordswood resident says Benji has helped her through some very dark times.

Not only does she suffer with mental health problems, she also battles with autism.

Lucy is not working as a result of her illnesses so dedicates her time to raising funds for the Kent Air Ambulance.

Since February last year, she has played a part in contributing £7,500 to the cause.

Last week she was told her three-year-old pet had been diagnosed with a pancreatic tumour.

With thousands needed to save him, she up a crowd-funding page and since last Wednesday, animal lovers have been touched by the pair’s plight.

By yesterday afternoon (Sunday), supporters had donated £2,805 to the cause.

Lucy said: “The moment I saw him I fell in love with him and knew how special he was.

“Benji has turned me into a mum, relying on me for so many things, every night he sleeps in my bed cuddled up to me and without him I can’t sleep.

“I have been fighting with autism and mental health issues for a while and he has helped me through some very dark times.

“When I was ready to give up, I thought of him.

“Without him, I probably wouldn’t be here today.

“To some people, he’s just a dog. To me, he’s my world. Without him, I would be lost.

“I need some help so I can save my best friend.”

As well as the crowd-funding, Lucy has set up a Facebook page to gather support for her cause.

She is also looking for unwanted items to sell to raise money to pay for the operation.

People who would like to donate something, should search for “Benjis specialist treatment fundraising page”.

Lucy has also been busy selling some of her own possessions to raise enough money for the operation.

To donate to the cause, click here.