A WILTSHIRE Police worker has saved the life of a stray dog after he stole her heart while she was on holiday in Corfu.

Digital communications officer Lisa Ottaviano spotted the skinny little mutt hanging around the hotel where she was staying and was so concerned about him she embarked on a rescue mission.

The mongrel was blind in one eye, painfully thin and he was losing his fur. He managed to get about but she could see he was struggling with life as a stray.

In fact, without Lisa’s help, love and care, it is likely he wouldn’t have seen the year out.

In a bid to save the dog - and with a kind offer from fellow holidaymakers to help cover the cost - Lisa took the dog to an animal rescue shelter. It was already full with stray dogs and cats that had all been rescued and were preparing to start new lives in new countries.

After eight weeks in the shelter, the dog was strong enough to be driven over on the three day journey by road from Corfu to the UK.

He arrived just in time for Christmas and is now living with Lisa in Trowbridge where he has been renamed Jake

“The experience has been truly amazing, moving and extremely rewarding,” said Lisa.

“I’ve met some amazing people who have put my faith back in humanity. I’m proud to say I’ve done it. Every time I look at Jake, I feel like I really have saved his life.

“My heart is bursting with pride and this experience has certainly given me a buzz with animal rescue work in the future.”