Bruno's the first 'guest' and he gives the abandoned animals sanctuary the paws-up:-Messenger 23/06/11

A Three-legged dog has given a 'paws up to impressive new kennels at Trafford's Society for Abandoned Animals- eight months after a Messenger- backed campaign saved the centre.

Six-year old Staffordshire bull terrier-cross Bruno was the first canine 'guest' to sample the state-of-the-art kennels, which have replaced outmoded ones that closed 18 months ago.

The new facilities have been completed thanks to the 'Save our Sanctuary' (SOS) campaign which raised £50,000 to prevent the cash-strapped 45-year-old centre from closure.

But, even though the kennels are superb, Bruno is not staying on there - he has become the first dog to be rehomed after completion of the £10,000 project. His new owner is the animal sanctuary's general manager, Bob Gregson, who could not resist the loveable pooch, who has twice been nursed back to fitness by the sanctuary.

Bruno has cancer which will cut his life short, and no-one knows how long he has left. Bob said "I want to make sure that every day is the best day of his life."

Bruno- who lost his leg at a young age in a road accident- was first taken to the animal sanctuary in December 2009. The sanctuary eventaully found him a new home, but he came back to the sanctuary when the new owner was unable to look after him because of a change in circumstances.

When he returned he was in a very poor condition, suffering from dehydration, malnutrition and with multiple sores. Now though, he has regained his strength and has settled in with Bob and his two other dogs. Bob added:"On walks with his new pack he is so happy it seems as if he is smiling."

Bob said the Messenger played a vital role in saving the sanctuary and ensuring it had the funds to upgrade it's facilities. He said "The momentum of the campaign led us to being able to improve facilites for all our animals. I would really like to thank readers for really caring and contributing both time and money to help. It's still difficult financially, so improvements are being done in phases."

The new kennels will be unveiled at an open day and dog show, taking place this Sunday between noon and 4pm on at the shelter on Mosley Acre Farm, Barfoot Bridge, off Dane Road, Sale.