A neglected dog could be given a new lease of life if enough funds are raised to fit him with a bionic foot.

German shepherd Max was rescued from Romania after an animal lover found him chained up in cruel conditions with serious injuries to his hind legs.

A car, which was his only form of shelter, had fallen and crushed the one-year-old canine. One of his back limbs was severed and the other was suspected to be broken.

With help from K-9 Rescue Remedy Support Group, Max travelled the 25-hour journey by courier to a foster home in Staplehurst - and a fundraising page was set up to help pay for treatment from super vet Noel Fitzpatrick.

The veterinary surgeon, whose work has featured on Channel 4, offers cutting-edge procedures using state-of-the art technology.

Mr Fitzpatrick has already operated on Max to repair one of his legs with a metal plate, but more cash needs to be raised for a prosthetic foot to be fitted to the other and to continue his treatment.

It is possible Max's story could feature on Mr Fitzpatrick's next TV series.

Carol Limpkin, from the K-9 group, said: "The difference in Max's leg is amazing. Noel can do incredible things and is really passionate about what he does, so Max is the best hands.

"Despite everything he has been through, he is still very loving, gentle and loyal, and just wants to play.

"There's a huge issue with animal cruelty in Romania as people refuse to have their pets neutered but treat the puppies appallingly."

The campaigners, who hope to collect around £5,000, have been given support by various organisations, including Splash Paws in Jaggard Way, Staplehurst.

The hydrotherapy centre has offered to match every 10 sessions paid for by fundraisers and staff are selling bags of sweets in support of the cause.

Owner Graham Cooper said: "I'm not really a German shepherd man, but there's something about Max which makes him special. We want to do what we can to give him the best treatment possible."

The hydrotherapists will dedicate their Paws in the Park stall to Max. The show runs over the weekend of September 20 and 21, at the Kent Showground off Detling Hill.

For more details, search AnewlifeforMax on Facebook.