PET rescuers are appealing for animal lovers to rally round and bring a happy end to a sad dog's tale.

Barney suffered years of abuse by his owners, but after a gruelling six-month rescue mission, Kathy and Doug Stevens are hoping fellow dog-lovers could hold the key to the hound's happiness.

The Whitton Waye householders were horrified to hear about the three-year-old's plight when they visited Tenerife last May. Pressed for time, the big-hearted couple scrambled to his rescue and managed to convince friends to provide a temporary haven.

Mr Stevens said: "Barney is not pure bred but he is still a handsome fellow. His last owners abused him badly. When the family decided to move they told everyone he would be dumped on the mountain, a local practise, where he would starve unless someone took pity on him."

Six months on, the couple hope to find the brown and white boxer-cross a new life in the UK. Having paid for his passport, rabies shots, neutering and blood tests, they are hoping residents will help raise his £700 air fare and find a home.

"Despite his appalling treatment Barney has a loving nature with no hang-ups and he loves cats, people and children," said Mr Stevens.

Anybody interested in helping can contact Hounslow Animal Welfare Society on 020 8560 5443.