Blind bullmastiff named top dog

A blind dog that was dumped when he was just five months old has been voted the nation's RSPCA Dog of the Year.

Bullmastiff Oliver was thrown out by an unscrupulous breeder as a puppy because he had an eye infection.

He was found by a dog warden before Christmas 2005, but despite urgent veterinary treatment lost his sight, with one eye having to be removed.



Oliver, now two, has found a new life with owner Julie Harkness, from Houghton-le-Spring, near Sunderland.

Ms Harkness, 38, said: "I can't believe that Oliver has won the competition. He's a true inspiration and clearly the rest of the country think he is too. We're so proud of him.

Oliver has overcome his disability and even has a special artificial implant in his one remaining eye to give him a normal appearance, even though he cannot actually see through it.