Rescue dog held together with nylon and steel

When Jack the search-and-rescue dog was found bloody and lifeless after a hit-and-run, it was touch and go whether he would survive.

Nearly two years and $12,500 later, Jack is back at work, now helping rescue people lost on the West Coast.

Land Search and Rescue (LandSAR) member Malcolm York and Jack had worked together for four years when the blue heeler was involved in a hit-and-run outside York's home in Coatesville, Auckland.

After suffering multiple breaks to his pelvis, hips and back left leg, the only options for Jack were to be put down, or undergo extensive surgery at Auckland's Veterinary Specialist Group.

York borrowed the money to pay for the surgery, determined to try to get Jack, now six, back into action. MORE>>