A DISABLED woman is embarking on a sponsored walk to raise money for the vets who tried to save her beloved dog's life.

Maria Hill, 32, suffers from chronic back pain but is doing the walk, from Weymouth Pavilion to Overcombe Corner and back, a distance of around four miles, because it was her white and fawn terrier-cross Ricky's favourite walk.

Maria said: "It was love at first sight when I found Ricky at a rescue home 16 years ago in the Midlands when he was two months old.

"He grew into a loving, intelligent and very fit dog who lived for walking. We moved to Weymouth eight years ago. Ricky loved Weymouth beach, especially seeing all the other dogs. He was very sociable."

Maria developed back problems and said: "I was housebound for many months after a particularly painful operation.

"But Ricky made everything okay. He lay by my side nudging up to me and followed me around the house, watching me as I took my tablets and only settling down for bed when he knew I was settled in mine."

At the beginning of December last year Ricky became ill but seemed to make a recovery before losing the use of his back legs on Christmas Eve.

Maria said: "It was a shock to see the sudden change. The vet gave him medication to make him comfortable and I held him throughout the night.

"On Christmas morning the vet came to our home and Ricky was put to sleep. It was incredibly peaceful and his appearance came to life again.

"I want to raise money for the vets to put towards whatever piece of equipment they need so they can continue helping Weymouth's animals."

The walk is being held on Saturday at noon to raise money for Ricky's vets Fielding and Cumber in Chickerell Road, Weymouth. To sponsor Maria call 01305 776477.