Pet owners are seeking to raise awareness of a charity that can give disabled dogs a second chance.

Broken Biscuits is a national charity "seeking to remove barriers to these animals pursuing active and healthy lives" and is working in Ipswich.

Linzi Bryan, 32, from Ipswich, received support after her French Bulldog, Duchess, slipped a disk at the age of three and became paralysed from the waist down. 

Ipswich Star: Linzi says Duchess is loving lifeLinzi says Duchess is loving life (Image: Linzi Bryan)

"When it happened, I was devastated," she said.

"Your automatic reaction is that it's the end of the world and you start to think you'll have to put her sleep.

"But that's not always the case. 

"With support from Broken Biscuits, we managed to get Duchess a wheelchair.

"She's so happy, she loves her life and she's exactly the same dog she was before the incident."

Despite being without the use of her rear legs, Duchess - who is now four - has managed to maintain her playful nature.

Ipswich Star: Broken Biscuits offer support to both pets and carersBroken Biscuits offer support to both pets and carers (Image: Linzi Bryan)

She still loves her toys, including her favourite ball, and attends regular physio sessions to keep track of her progress. 

"Lots of people will come up to me and say 'oh that's so sad' when they see her," said Linzi. 

"But not many people understand that when a dog becomes injured, you don't automatically need to put them down.

"One dog at our physio sessions has even managed to make such significant progress that they are starting to stand up again.

"You just have to be patient and grow together.

Ipswich Star: Broken Biscuits support pets across the countryBroken Biscuits support pets across the country (Image: Linzi Bryan)

"It's important to know there is light at the end of the tunnel."

On their website, Broken Biscuits says: "Just like with disabled humans, a life-changing injury or illness need not be a life-ending one.

"We work to promote the many options available to treat and rehabilitate injured animals and restore their mobility so that they can return to active lives."

The organisation will not only support pets, but will also provide much-needed assistance for carers. 

Linzi is now an advocate for the charity, which she described as "life-changing".

"We are here for everyone," she said.

Ipswich Star: Linzi says the experience has brought her and Duchess closer togetherLinzi says the experience has brought her and Duchess closer together (Image: Linzi Bryan)

"We are in Ipswich and people need to know that.

"Despite their injuries, these dogs are so happy and absolutely love life.

"I thought Duchess and I were close before, but it's a whole new level now.

"She's my baby and I'd be lost without her."