A rescue dog saved by an animal charity in Kensal Green after she was found abandoned in a severely neglected state has died.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Ko when she was found collapsed in a park (Pic credit: Mayhew)Ko when she was found collapsed in a park (Pic credit: Mayhew) (Image: Archant)

Ko, an Akita, was nursed back to live by the Mayhew Animal Home in Trenmar Gardens, after she was brought in bleeding, raw and with barely a hair on her body in 2011.

She was adopted by Steve and Joy Manzanero the following year and went to live with the married couple and their other Akita in Hampshire.

Sadly, Ko was recently diagnosed with a cancerous bone tumour in her leg which had spread to her shoulder.

As she was in a great deal of pain her owners had to make the agonising decision to let her go peacefully and have her put to sleep.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Ko with owner Steve Manzanero (Pic credit: Mayhew)Ko with owner Steve Manzanero (Pic credit: Mayhew) (Image: Archant)

Ko became one of the Mayhew’s first TheraPaws dogs which help people with dementia and other illnesses.

Caroline Yates, Mayhew CEO, said: “It is with such great sadness we inform our supporters and followers that the wonderful and very much loved Ko is no longer with us.

“Ko is one of those dogs that will remain in the hearts and minds of everyone associated with The Mayhew forever.

“We cannot thank Steve and Joy enough for giving Ko the family and love she so richly deserved.”

Mr Manzanero added: “It’s so tragic; she really was the best dog in the world and we will all miss her.”

For more information about the Mayhew visit the Mayhew’s website.