A PUPPY who was facing a life of pain after suffering a mystery injury is to be honoured at the world’s biggest dog show.

Fergus, a larger than life Leonberger, will be named extraordinary dog of the year at Crufts tomorrow.

The pet was just a few weeks old when his owners noticed he was having difficulty walking and struggling to stand from a sit.

He was refusing food and slept much more than a puppy should.

However, after undergoing a course of specialist canine muscle therapy, he has now bounced back and is displaying all the usual behaviour expected of a young dog of 11 months old.

The award will be presented by Bolney-based therapist Julia Robertson who got Fergus back on his feet.

Ms Robertson founded Galen Myotherapy, a unique hands-on muscle remedy used to treat injured animals.

Fergus’s owner Vanessa Leppard, 46, from Crowborough, said: “I really do not know what we would have done if we had not found Galen Myotherapy and Julia.

“He could have been looking at a life of operations and pain but she has given Fergus a great future.

“Julia has a special way with dogs and seemed to understand straight away what was causing him problems.

“She undoubtedly gave Fergus a new lease of life and having him named as Galen’s extraordinary dog of the year is just the icing on the cake.”

Fergus’s problems started when he was just eight weeks old – the cause for which remains a mystery to his owner and breeder.

Ms Leppard sought advice and was told his behaviour was probably normal for a growing puppy of his size.

However her concerns only grew as his unusual character quirks continued and after talking to Fergus’s breeder she got in touch with Ms Robertson.

The treatment is derived in part from massage and helps dogs suffering from musculoskeletal pain, arthritis and underlying issues.

After just one session Vanessa noticed an improvement in Fergus’s behaviour.

He was able to stand more easily, walked happily and was able to climb on the furniture and has since gone from strength to strength.

Ms Robertson, a former veterinary nurse, said: “Fergus’s transformation from slow moving and fatigued to a bouncy puppy full of energy has been incredible and wonderful to see.

“He has been a joy to work with and his remarkable turnaround made him first choice for Galen’s extraordinary dog award.”