A family are in "turmoil" after discovering they cannot afford the cost of an operation to mend their pet six-month-old French Bulldog's broken hock bone.

Bella the bulldog got into an accident when messing around at home in Godmanchester and needs surgery to pin the broken bone back into place, with costs potentially soaring above £3,500.

The Hunts Post: Bella the French Bulldog has broken her hock bone which is located in the hind limb, and is the equivalent of the human ankle joint.Bella the French Bulldog has broken her hock bone which is located in the hind limb, and is the equivalent of the human ankle joint. (Image: Nik Wilson-Tooke)

A fundraiser has been set up to help the Wilson-Tooke family, who said their insurance application had become void following a "miscommunication", leaving baby Bella uncovered.

The family said on their fundraising page: "We never expected this and are completely mortified, times are really difficult for everyone we know that much!

"If we had the funds, we wouldn't even be asking. We will be doing everything in our power to get the funds together, but we are asking for any donations to help our French bulldog baby."

The Hunts Post: Bella was bought by the family from Ely.Bella was bought by the family from Ely. (Image: Nik Wilson-Tooke)

The fundraising page was organised by a friend of the family's, Deb Westley, who also sold them the puppy.

Deb, who lives in Ely, said: "They are a lovely family, and we are in touch daily. They feel so awful that she's in pain honestly; it's heartbreaking to see!

"They just weren't prepared...they are in turmoil, honestly."

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Despite not reaching the £3,500 target, the family have Bella booked in for surgery today (April 28).

The Hunts Post: An x-ray for Bella the other day cost £460 alone.An x-ray for Bella the other day cost £460 alone. (Image: Nik Wilson-Tooke)

They hope that the vets will accept the more than £800 they have raised so far, combined with their own money and that they will accept later payments from the fundraiser.

"We would be so grateful for any help and support, and we truly just want our baby back on the mend and in good health, it's heartbreaking watching her in pain," said the family.

The fundraiser will run for 26 days, and the family added that "every little really will help."

If you wish to make a donation, visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/baby-bella-needs-your-help#start.