A puppy who has transformed the life of an autistic boy could die within months unless he undergoes life-saving surgery costing thousands.

Brendan Mackenzie, from Margate, is heartbroken at the prospect of losing little Oreo, who has been diagnosed with a shunted liver.

Family tell KMTV of their desperate attempts to save their dog

The 10-year-old's mum Emma Cook says the dog has had such a positive impact on her son and the thought of losing the "sweet and caring" pup is heartbreaking.

"I previously had problems with Brendan's behaviour, he would lash out or hurt himself," she said.

"He could have two temper tantrums a day, but since having Oreo he's stopped as he worries it will scare the puppy.

"He enjoys the responsibility of being a dog owner and he's now excited to go to school, to talk about Oreo.

"He's trying to be more independent; he thinks if his dog is strong enough to get up, then he should have the mental strength to do the same. He didn't think like that before.

"He's extremely compassionate to animals; he came up with the idea to raise money for the Australian bushfire fund at his school and raised £1,500."

Miss Cook says her son, who wants to be a vet when he grows up, is much more happy-go-lucky when he goes to school at Garlinge Primary since getting Oreo.

"The thought of him losing this and going back to how he was before is heartbreaking," she added.

Oreo, who is six months old, first started showing signs something was wrong about a month after Miss Cook got him.

A month later he was diagnosed with a shunted liver, a condition causing a number of problems including poor growth, unsteadiness and poor vision.

He is currently on medication but needs surgery costing £3,500 to save his life, which would have to be carried out by a specialist veterinary surgeon outside of the area.

"I'm a single mum and carer for my little boy and I don't have that kind of money," said Miss Cook.

"We weren't aware Oreo had this when we got him - no one was.

"Being autistic, Brendan finds it difficult understanding his dog is going to die.

"It's heartbreaking watching Oreo laying in bed with Brendan, they truly love each other."

Miss Cook has launched a fundraising page to try to help with costs.

• If you would like to donate click here

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