CALLS have been made for reforms to pet healthcare after a family set up a GoFundMe to get their dog life-saving surgery.

Seven-year-old German Shepherd cross Ruby was running through Croftlands Park in Ulverston when she snapped her anterior cruciate ligament in her knee.

After undergoing an x-ray, vets told the concerned family that Ruby needed an operation or she may have to be put down.

The injured canine is unable to put any weight on her affected leg, with fears the healthy leg may deteriorate as well due to too much pressure.

Kerry Haslam said: "You could possibly ask RSPCA and Animal Welfare for vouchers towards the costs. Or possibly a payment plan, they pay the bill up front you pay them back."

Janet Bury said: "Hope they have tried Furness vets at Dalton as it's much cheaper for an operation."

Lorraine Larden said: "There is such a big 'grey' area for people who need help for their pets, only certain benefits are accepted by animal charities and then there is no help at all for those who work but are on low wages or a benefit that doesn't apply. The UK gov need to get this right and make sure there are no people with pets stuck in that 'grey' area so they can get the subsidised help as others get. Having a pet to some people is actually a life saving lifeline, even a reason for carrying on living."

Gwen Fallon said: "A friend of mine - her pet insurance wouldn't pay out for a operation - some pet insurance are a waste of money. She paid thousands in insurance and ended up paying for the operation out of her savings."

Jacqueline Eleanor said: "Even if you have pet insurance, chances are they won't pay out anyway - they always find a way of getting out of paying."

claphamomnibus said: "Even with insurance the deductibles can be beyond many owners pockets, having been caught out myself in the past with pet insurance deductibles, I believe its something the ombudsman needs to look at."