AN abused dog that was found with hundreds of bullets lodged inside it has been saved – but needs help.

Emma Trickett, a 36-year-old part-time ballroom dance teacher and massage therapist, adopted Sadie, a blind rescue dog from Bulgaria, nine weeks ago.

Sadie, who is registered as four-years-old, though vets believe she may be much older, had spent her whole life tied to a three-foot chain in a ‘no-kill’ shelter in Bulgaria.

When Emma saw a photo of the abused dog on a dog rescue website, she didn’t hesitate to have Sadie transferred over to the UK to live with her in Hullavington.

After being taken to the vets, it was discovered that she had serious mobility issues and had supposedly been shot more than 200 times, leaving small pellets lodged all over her body.

The abuse she suffered has left her needing various medical operations which Emma is appealing to residents to help fund.

“She had major surgery on her left leg a few weeks ago and she was very poorly afterwards,” said Emma.

“I took a couple of weeks off work to be with her and take care of her as she had hardly any mobility at all and just wanted to be cuddled.

“Next surgery is due in two weeks and then a heck of a lot of physiotherapy afterwards is required to try to help sort out alignment problems and strength issues.”

As vet bills start to stack up, Emma is asking residents to help her with the costs.

“I am struggling to pay her unexpected and mounting medical fees,” said Emma.

“She desperately needs surgery on the other back leg.

“I love her and so want to be able to provide her with access to the continued veterinary and specialist care she desperately deserves, to make her last years happy and comfortable.”

Taking Sadie in has been no mean feat for Emma, who said the experience had been tough.

“At first she was scared of everything the poor girl, even just bringing in her food and water bowls,” she said.

“She was even drinking her own wee because I don't think she had good access to clean water before.”

Emma has already raised more than £1,500 towards Sadie medical bills. To donate, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/sadie-abused-dog